BRIDGE FOR EDUCATION

Many veterans experience difficulties when transitioning back into civilian life. Our Sentinels have the additional burden of being severely wounded, which often prevents them from doing what they did in the military or other physically demanding jobs. As they struggle to overcome their injuries it can be difficult for them to envision a rich and fulfilling life.

Sentinel’s Bridge for Education assists wounded veterans in finding their unique path to a fulfilling post-military life. 

Sentinels of Freedom supports our veterans with a well-rounded, all-encompassing program catered to their specific needs. This may include financial support, mentoring, networking, and overall guidance. Our support gives Sentinels flexibility to focus their attention on their studies, career, and family.

Each Sentinel must have a VA disability rating of 60% or higher and have been wounded or injured in a combat or training-related event post 9/11 and be committed to pursuing their higher education.

The Sentinel’s Bridge for Education program is comprehensive, multi-faceted, and based upon each individual’s needs. As our veterans move through school, ongoing assistance is provided in the way of mentoring, life skills coaching, career development and networking, budgeting, financial planning, and more.

Throughout the multi-year program, each Sentinel receives a case manager who helps guide them throughout their entire journey. With check-ins during the year, they address any potential roadblocks to ensure a continued road to success.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, supporters, and corporate sponsors, the personal sacrifices made by these heroic men and women were not in vain. Their dreams of meaningful employment and self-sufficiency will be met.

ELIGIBLE VETERANS ARE:

• Member of any branch of the armed forces, active, guard or reserves who have been wounded or injured, in a combat or training related event post 9/11.
• Received a VA disability rating of 60% or higher as listed on their VA Rating Statement.
• Have received or will be receiving an honorable discharge.
• Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in full-time post-secondary education or vocational school. Must be a VA approved school (SOF can be flexible on the full-time requirement in certain circumstances, depending on the level of injury and ability to maintain full-time education).
• Highly motivated individuals with the drive to reach personal, educational and career goals.
• Must be willing to actively engage with mentor and networking opportunities provided by SOF.

Sentinels of Freedom has two application windows:

Window #1 (for fall semester): Nov. 2nd – June 1st.
Decision notification will be made in late July for August start.

Window #2 (for spring semester): June 2nd – Nov. 1st.
Decision notification will be made in late December for January start.

Application may be submitted at any time, but will only be reviewed after the stated deadlines for the respective windows.