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The Paul F. Pikula Education Fund

Application Form
 Information
The Paul F. Pikula Education Fund was created in 2006 in loving memory of Paul by his family.  Mr. Pikula, a Connecticut native, was a volunteer for Connecticut Forest & Park Association (CFPA) for twenty-nine years.  As a Trail Manager for the Naugatuck Trail, he was often found on the trail with his backpack and tools, ready to keep the trail safe and clear for fellow hikers.  Mr. Pikula’s love of the land inspired him to travel around the world to hike and see places of natural beauty.
 
This fund will assist children, teachers, educators and students of all ages become engaged in learning about Connecticut’s land and natural resources.  It has been created to provide assistance in getting outdoors and experiencing the natural beauty of Connecticut to those who may not otherwise have the opportunity.  Applicants from disadvantaged economic backgrounds and communities are strongly encouraged to apply.  The Paul F. Pikula Education Fund will lower CFPA program rates for those demonstrating need and interest in attending CFPA Education Programs.

 
The Paul F. Pikula Education Fund will:
 
Improve the opportunity of teachers and educators who demonstrate financial need in attending professional development workshops such as Children’s Literature and Nature, Art and the Environment, Schoolyard Habitat Workshop, and others that are offered through CFPA’s Education Program.

Connect students and children from disadvantaged economic backgrounds with the natural resources and environment in which they live.  CFPA’s Student Programs such as Forest Forensics, Living Lab Field Studies and Connecting Arts & the Environment will be offered at a discounted rate for approved schools and students.
 
 
 
Steps to Receiving Financial Assistance from CFPA’s Paul F. Pikula Education Fund

Contact Education Coordinator to discuss program and need.
  •  Call the CFPA headquarters office at 860-346-2372 or email education@ctwoodlands.org.
 
Complete application form
  •  Request a form from CFPA or download a copy HERE
  •  Complete form & send to CFPA office eight (8) weeks prior to program date.
  •  Form must be signed by primary contact and principal or executive director.
  •  Demonstrate need for financial assistance and explain how this program fee reduction will benefit the applicant in terms of learning about Connecticut’s land and environment.
 
Eligibility
  • Education Coordinator determines eligibility based on content of completed form, including number of students reached and percent of students receiving reduced or free lunches or scholarships. Other factors taken into consideration include how applicant will benefit from attending the CFPA program.
 
Financial Assistance
  • Adults applying for assistance to attend Education Workshops: preference will be given to teachers who reach economically disadvantaged audiences, which may include cultural or ethnic groups as well as at-risk youth and special needs groups.
  •  On the form, clearly state the program participant fee the applicant is able to contribute (see Request for Funding section on form).
 
Award Notification
  •  For Student Program financial assistance, applicant will provide name(s) of local media.
  •  CFPA’s Education Coordinator will contact primary contact within two weeks of receiving application form.
 

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