The Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation will honor three leaders at a luncheon on Friday, Oct. 14 at The Waterfall in Claymont.
To be honored are:
- Barbara Buckley, winner of the Muriel E. Gilman Champion Award
Barbara has led and shaped Fresh Start’s scholarship program from its infancy. She manages the scholar selection process, implements the mentoring program, and ensures the scholars leave with a renewed sense of purpose, as well as an education. She has enhanced relationships with social service agencies and colleges while expanding the reach and awareness of Fresh Start. - Bonita Penn, winner of the Achievement Award
Unable to initially afford college, Bonita joined the workforce after she graduated from high school. After having her son, Edward, she decided she wanted to get a higher level of education. With the help of the Fresh Start Scholarship Foundation, Bonita earned a BS in Nursing and Psychology from Delaware State University. She began working as a Registered Nurse with Christiana Care Health System. She continued her education, recently earning her Masters of Nursing degree from Wilmington University. In addition to her full-time job, she now serves on Fresh Start’s Board of Directors.
- Allison T. Butler, winner of the Inspiration Award
Allison’s early years were filled with challenges – raising her siblings when her adoptive parents died, abusive relationships, unexpected pregnancies and incarceration. Then, she decided to change her life and get her high school diploma. She started a small business, which was well received. Referring to herself as the “Prison Break Coach,” she has written several books including “I Was, I Am – How to Move Beyond Your Past to Create an Extraordinary Life.” She is currently working on a reality TV series in which she shares her experiences and counsel with women pre- and post- release from prison.
Honorary chairs of the event are Maria Hess from Wilmington University and Fred Dawson from Bassett, Dawson and Foy, Inc. The luncheon runs from Noon to 1:30 and will also include raffle opportunities. Proceeds benefit the scholarship fund. Visit www.freshstartscholarship.org for more information and to reserve a set.
