What is the Athlete Assistance Program?
The athlete assistance program (AAP) is a compilation of grants sponsored by local businesses, as well as Kingston Elite, to help make competitive cheerleading more affordable for families in need of financial assistance. Each award highlights an important attribute that we value at KE. The grants have different requirements and monetary values.
The Maddie Chiasson Memorial Grant
Sponsored by: AOG Heliservices
The Maddie Chiasson Memorial Grant honours the memory of a previous Kingston Elite Cheerleader who sadly passed away in 2017 at the age of 18. Maddie was part of the KE family for 5 years from grade 7 to grade 11. She was a ray of sunshine and always brightened up the gym when she entered with her bubbly, beautiful smile and contagious laugh.
You may never know what your teammates are going through outside of the gym. Knowing that Kingston Elite is a supportive, caring community can hopefully provide a safe and healthy environment. Seeking help is a sign of strength, courage and resilience, which are all qualities we learn through Kingston Elite.
This grant focuses on the importance of mental health in sports and encourages athletes to come to practice with sunshine and brightness like Maddie.
Application Process: Applicants must submit a 500-1000 word essay on how cheerleading has made a positive impact on their mental health and well being. Please do not disclose any personal medical information in your essay.
Number of Grants: 1
Amount of Grant: $1000
Requirements: Athletes registered for a Novice, Prep or All-star team may apply for this grant.
Deadline: Friday May 17, 2024 by 6:00 pm
Kingston Community Grants
Sponsored by: Local Kingston Businesses
Application Process: Applicants must submit a 500 word essay on how cheerleading has taught them the importance of giving back to their community.
Number of Grants: Minimum 4
Amount of Grant: $250-$500
Requirements: Athletes registered for a Novice, Prep or All-star team may apply for this grant.
Deadline: Friday May 31, 2024 by 6:00 pm
Kingston Elite Excellence Grant
Sponsored by: Kingston Elite
Application Process: Applicants must submit a 1000 word essay explaining how Kingston Elite has inspired them to be excellent in all aspects of their life.
Number of Grants: 3
Amount of Grant: Full Tuition Paid
Requirements:
1)) Athletes must be registered for an All-star team
2) Athletes must have at least 2 years experience cheering for a KE competitive team (All-star, Prep, or Novice Teams)
Deadline: Friday May 17, 2024 by 6:00 pm
Important Notes:
1) Athletes 12 and older are expected to write their own essays. Parents with athletes under the age of 12 may apply on their child's behalf.
2) Athletes may apply to all grants they are eligible for.
3) Essays must be submitted before the deadline to be considered.
4) Essays should be submitted via email to kecheergym@gmail.com with the grant name and athlete's name in the subject line of the email.
Interested in donating to the Kingston Community Grant Fund?
If you, or someone you know, is interested in donating to the Kingston Community Grant Fund, please send an email to kecheergym@gmail.com by Friday May 31, 2024
