The Southside Opportunity Fund (SOF) is currently accepting scholarship applications for students headed to college or a trade/technical school.

High school seniors who receive electricity at their primary residence from Southside Electric Cooperative (SEC) are eligible to apply for the $1,000 scholarships. The application deadline is March 29.

The Southside Opportunity Fund was created by the SEC Board of Directors to provide scholarships and other opportunities for SEC members and their families. It’s part of a recognition by the Cooperative of the importance of preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s jobs and that the future success of communities is best obtained by investing in young people.

More than 50 scholarships totaling more than $50,000 have been awarded in the last three years.

A combination of weighted criteria is used in the selection process: 45 percent financial need, 45 percent academic achievement and 10 percent personal statement. Scholarships must be used for tuition, student fees, lodging or textbooks. To be eligible, the applicant’s primary residence must receive its electric power from SEC, the applicant must receive a high school diploma or GED by the fall of 2019 and the applicant must be entering his or her first semester of college or trade/technical school in the fall of 2019. Proof of admission will be required if selected to receive a scholarship.

For more information and to apply for a scholarship, visit www.sof.coop.