Paying it forward leads to scholarship fund

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Paying it forward is paving the way for UNCW student Chrissie Mooney who received a scholarship founded on that principle.

Mooney was awarded the Project One Scholarship, which assists students from lower-income, single-parent homes. She will be the first Project One recipient to complete college when she graduates in May.

“My mom is a single parent and she works as a freelance writer, so there were times when it was working out really well and times when it kind of dropped off, so it was really hard to save for college,” said Mooney.

The scholarship’s founder, Neal Emmons, started the program after a friend’s grandfather paid for his college education.

“He understands exactly what we’ve been through, and it makes a huge difference just being able to have that support,” Mooney said.

The scholarship program’s board chair, Dr. Eduardo Haynes, said they want to give more than just money, which is why they offer educational and mentoring programs to recipients.

“We do a little bit more than award them a scholarship and say we hope you make it for four years,” said Haynes. “We’re actually there supporting them each year through the way.”

In the future, Mooney plans to help other students who are in her situation.

“I can’t wait to help other students that were in my situation,” she said.

Click here for more information about the Project One Scholarship Fund.