Mission Statement:
The Neil J. Campolungo Adopt A Scholar Program, initiated by The Sandbox, is dedicated to supporting our Honorees and their siblings in advancing their education. We provide comprehensive resources—both financial and human capital—to ensure our scholars are well-prepared for success in their academic and personal endeavors.
Program Goal:
Our goal is to equip scholars with a diverse network of counselors and resources, empowering them to thrive in the world. By participating in the Neil J. Campolungo Adopt A Scholar Program, you are making a meaningful impact in the lives of young individuals facing life-altering or terminal illnesses, as well as their siblings, who are committed to achieving their educational aspirations.
Supporting education for our Honorees and their siblings was also a cherished priority for Lillian Zongrone, affectionately known as Nani. Alongside Neil & Mara, Nani played a crucial role in establishing The Sandbox and supporting its daily operations for our families.
Nani-Neil Adopt a Scholar Fund:
In honor of Lillian’s recent passing, we established the Nani-Neil Adopt A Scholar Fund. Similar to the Adopt A Scholar Program, 100% of donations received in her memory will go directly to supporting the cause she valued so deeply.
Program Overview:
The NJC Adopt A Scholar program is built on the foundation of community support. There are three primary ways the community can contribute:
A. Serve As An Active Sponsor
Active Sponsors play a crucial role in the success of our scholars by providing financial sponsorship and, if desired, personal mentorship.
- Financial Sponsorship Levels: $1,000, $2,500, $5,000, $7,500, or $10,000. Custom levels over $10,000 will be discussed 1:1.
- Mentorship Commitment: Sponsors can choose to designate a team member from their organization to mentor the scholar for the year. This involves:
- Regular check-ins with the scholar.
- Providing academic and personal support.
- Ensuring the scholar stays on track.
- Offering counsel in areas of need.
B. Amazon Wish List Granters
Wish List Granters commit to fulfilling the monthly needs of a scholar as listed on their Amazon Wish List. This ensures our scholars have the necessary supplies and comforts to thrive in their college environment.
- Monthly Commitment: Provide at least one item from the scholar’s Amazon Wish List each month. Items may include:
- School supplies
- Textbooks
- Snacks
- Medical supplies
- Home goods
C. Special Counsel & Professional Mentors (SQUAD)
Special Counsel & Professional Mentors offer their expertise and guidance to support the holistic development of our scholars. This personalized mentorship helps scholars navigate various aspects of college life and beyond, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers.
- Examples of Special Counsel & Professional Mentors:
- Financial Advisors: Assist scholars with budgeting and managing cash flow.
- Therapists: Provide emotional support and mental health check-ins.
- Industry Professionals: Guide and advise scholars who are pursuing careers in their chosen fields.
General Donations:
In addition to corporate sponsorships, we also seek general donations to support the NJC Adopt A Scholar Program. These contributions are vital as they allow us to assist family members of scholars as needed, ensuring that our support network extends beyond the individual scholar to their families. Your generosity will help us provide comprehensive support and resources to those who need it most.
Join Us:
We invite you to become a part of this transformative program. Your support, whether through financial sponsorship, wish list grants, or special counsel, will create a lasting impact on the lives of our scholars.
