By Fred L. Jones, Jr.
fjones@theoklahomaeagle.net
The J’Parle’ Scholarship was developed for working adults that were having difficulty securing enough financial assistance to return to school. This scholarship is designed to help not only with 4-year universities, but for those desiring to pick up a certification or trade as well.
We asked Jerica Wortham: Why is it named Benefactors Ball? She stated: “I wanted the opportunity to highlight the individuals in our community doing absolutely amazing things. Some are well known, and some go about these days with little media attention but still making amazing things happen”.
This year’s Benefactors of the Year (name for honorees) are:
Kode Ransom with Ransom Acts of Kindness
Starla Reed with One Voice Literacy
Richard Baxter with Racism Stinks
Vanessa Hall Harper City Councilor
Jerica also stated: I have a master’s degree and that was done only by way the assistance of scholarships and financial aid. It is my desire to pay it forward. The J Parle’ Scholarship does not currently have any large corporate sponsors. Every year we manage to give away thousands solely with the support of individuals in our community”.
Jerica went on to say: “It’s beautiful to see our ambassadors (small business owners in our community) come together to make great things happen. Seeing fellow entrepreneurs taking time from their busy schedules to give back is beautiful to watch. In addition to that, those that have helped with online donation efforts are appreciated as well. Everyone doing their small parts helps to have a great impact in the lives of those awarded scholarships. It is my hope through this night to not only pause and say thank you to those that are making strides to make Tulsa a better city to live in, but to also inspire a new generation to go after their dreams and to be benefits to their community”.
Jerica has a heart for giving back and is looking forward to enhancing young lives for generations to come she said: “This event will be multi-generational, and we will be awarding scholarships live on the spot to talented Tulsa Seniors. When it’s all said and done it’s simply my desire to be an avatar of going after every dream in your heart. I want others to see that you may not have all of the answers, or all of the funding, or all of the volunteers, or all of the press, but if you continue to take action of what God has called you to do, he will continue to open every door needed to get you to your place of purpose. It’s heart work, and It is hard work, but I am honored to do it”.
