Continuing Education for
Peer Support Specialists
Scholarship Information
APPLY
We’re helping increase the behavioral health workforce
Ashland Community Health Foundation’s scholarship for Peer Support Specialists who are seeking continuing education through additional certifications allows individuals to take the next step in their career and increases access to behavioral health services in our community.
“Because mental health is critical for good health overall, we must focus on increasing access to care by increasing resources for new and incoming behavioral health providers.”
– Leona O’Keefe, JCC Medical Director
Scholarship eligibility
Scholarship awards are considered for students who submit complete applications and must meet the following criteria:
- Be a current Peer Support Specialist
- Be currently employed and working with low-income and vulnerable populations
- Be accepted or enrolled full-time* in the certification program being pursued
- Intend to continue to work with low-income and vulnerable populations
- Currently live in the Rogue Valley and intend to work here
*Full-time as defined by the certification program
Application requirements
Applicants must apply online through our website to complete the application. To prepare, have the following information and documents ready:
- Student ID number
- Program start date and graduation date
- Employment information
- Household income
- Out-of-pocket expenses for tuition and fees
- Proof of full-time enrollment
The application is open May 1 through October 31.
Frequently Asked Questions
What certification programs are eligible?
- Addictions Studies Certificate
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Community Health Worker
- Traditional Health Worker
- Family Support Specialist Certificate
How much is each scholarship?
Awards vary based on the cost of the program, and range from $500 to $4,000.
How are the scholarships awarded?
- A limited number of scholarship awards will be made per quarter.
- Scholarship awards may be used only for tuition and other academic fees.
- Funds will be sent directly to the school and earmarked for the recipient.
- Awards will be made based on the financial need and relative merit of each applicant.
- Priority is given to applicants who demonstrate a commitment to working with low-income and vulnerable populations in the Rogue Valley after graduation.
What are the application guidelines?
- Applicants should review these Frequently Asked Questions, carefully read and follow the instructions in the application, and complete all required fields.
- When uploading documents, use either PDF, Word (.doc or .docx), or text files. Please do not submit JPEG files or phone screenshots.
- Once you submit your application, you will receive an email confirmation. If you do not receive an email confirmation, check your spam folders or please contact our office at scholarships@achfoundation.org or call 541-482-0367 x4.
When is the application window open?
The online application is open May 1 through September 30.
Scholarships are prioritized for students at the beginning of their academic program. Students applying mid-program are encouraged to contact us at scholarships@achfoundation.org to verify eligibility before applying.
Can I start my application now and save it for later?
Yes! Applicants are given the option to save and continue at a later time.
Do I need to reapply for the scholarship each year?
No. This scholarship is a one-time award.
What financial information is required?
The application will ask:
Employment Status: Applicants will need to provide their current employment status.
Household Income: Applicants will be asked to provide their household income based on a list of income ranges. The applicant’s adjusted gross income from the most recent income tax return is ideal. If the applicant is a dependent who is claimed by someone else, they should provide their family/household adjusted gross income.
Estimated Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Applicants will be asked to enter the estimated amount of out-of-pocket tuition and fee expenses for the academic year.
Financial Need: If applicable, the applicant may include information about their financial need.
Do I need to write an essay?
Yes. The applicant will be asked to write about their career plans including their interest in working with vulnerable populations.
Do I need to attach a documents?
Yes, the applicant should prepare to submit the following documents:
Proof of Enrollment
Documents that may be used include (but are not limited to):
- A copy of your official transcript
- A copy of a course registration confirmation letter or email for the current/upcoming term
- A copy of a current tuition bill
- A copy of a current, valid student ID
Award decisions
Award decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year. Applicants can expect to receive a response within 30 days of applying. All applicants will receive an email from the Ashland Community Health Foundation notifying them of the funding decision.
What if my contact information changes after I submit my application?
Please contact ACHF at scholarships@achfoundation.org to update your contact information.
Does the scholarship provide funding for other behavioral health education programs?
The scholarship only supports current Peer Support Specialists who are pursuing the listed certifications outlined in the FAQ to further their current career.
About the Scholarship
The scholarship for continuing education for Peer Support Specialists was established in 2025 through the generosity of CareOregon and Jackson Care Connect to help build the behavioral health workforce in Jackson County.
