The Nebrasky Foundation, an organization that awards funds annually to students and residents of the Hudson Valley to be used for education, training and assistance for those who may not fit the traditional four-year college model, has announced that it has awarded $1,000 scholarships to four students: Eric Housberg of Chester, New York; Paul Coman, Jr. of Roscoe, New York; Dianna Marty of Parksville, New York; and Dominic Guido of Goshen, New York.

The Nebrasky Foundation was launched in December 2019 by Ilene Nebrasky and Paul Nebrasky, with the goal of inspiring and building confidence in young adults during an important decision-making time in their lives. The Foundation provides assistance for college, vocational school training and career and technical education, in addition to as-needed assistance for tools for trade schools, uniforms and transportation, among other items.

Housberg is a graduate of Warwick Valley High School, and volunteers with the Chester Fire Department - Sugar Loaf Engine Company. He will attend SUNY Alfred in the fall for a two-year program in Heavy Equipment Operations, and is looking forward to the opportunities that await him in the future.

"I have big goals for five to 10 years from now," Housberg said. "I know there is a big demand for the trades. I want to live somewhere that has a need year-round for heavy equipment so I can work for 12 months a year."

Coman is a graduate of Roscoe High School and volunteers at his local food pantry. He will attend SUNY Delhi in the fall for Electrical Construction and Plumbing, and hopes to one day take the path of entrepreneurship.

"I hope SUNY Delhi can provide the hands-on experience I need to have a successful career," Coman said. "I would like to start my own business at some point in the future."

Marty is a graduate of Liberty High School, and is very involved in her community, serving as a member of the Liberty Rotary Club, volunteering with the Catskill Animal Rescue, Pets Alive and Town of Wallkill Boys & Girls Clubs, among others. She began her classes at SUNY Sullivan in June, working toward her degree in Respiratory Therapy.

"I understand what it feels like to have difficulty breathing, and I want to help people with breathing challenges," Marty said. "Due to COVID, many people experienced long- and short-term breathing issues. There is greater need than ever in this field, and I look forward to my studies in respiratory care."

Guido, a graduate of Goshen High School, has volunteered at Sanfordville Elementary School in Warwick, and will be attending SUNY Alfred's Electrical Construction and Maintenance Electrician program in the fall.

"Working with my hands is something I have always been good at," Guido said. "Once I started the C-Tech program, I realized that I can utilize these skills in my career pursuit. I plan to get my electrical degree and work in that field."

Funds from the foundation are awarded as a one-time sum, and will vary in range, based on need. Applicants, and those selected to receive funding, may reapply for subsequent years.

Applicants must provide a High School transcript or GED equivalent, personal statement and two letters of recommendation. They must also complete a mandatory interview. The selection of award recipients is not based on income or GPA standing.

To learn more about, to donate, or to apply to The Nebrasky Foundation, which has been established through The Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan, visit https://www.thenebraskyfoundation.org/scholarships.