A New Beginning After an Uncertain Season
Becoming a single parent was not part of the future Lynn had imagined. After leaving an unhealthy and unsafe relationship, she chose peace and protection for her daughters, even when the road ahead felt uncertain.
Like many single parents, Lynn faced constant questions. Would her paycheck cover groceries? Could she create stability for her children? Did she have the strength to rebuild their future on her own?
Finding Motivation Through Her Children
Her daughters quickly became her greatest motivation. While life had not gone according to plan, Lynn knew education could help her break cycles, create stability, and redefine her family’s future.
During a season of searching for resources for single parents in Northwest Arkansas, Lynn learned about the Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Northwest Arkansas (SPSFNWA). Unsure if returning to school was realistic, she applied at the last minute.
She remembers praying,
“I’m not sure what I’m doing, but I’m going to apply. If I don’t get it, maybe it’s a sign not to go back.”
Receiving the Scholarship Changed Everything
When Lynn learned she had been awarded the scholarship, she felt overwhelming relief and joy. For the first time, she felt seen not just as a single mother, but as someone actively working to build a better future.
Today, Lynn is pursuing a Business degree, inspired by a desire to understand how businesses grow and operate sustainably. After years working in the nail industry, she recognized the physical demands and limited long-term opportunities. Returning to school opened a path toward a career offering stability, health, and growth for her family.
Support Beyond Tuition
For Lynn, the scholarship meant far more than financial assistance.
Through SPSFNWA, she also received:
- Counseling support at no cost
- Pantry assistance to help feed her family
- School supplies for her children
- Regular check-ins providing encouragement and accountability
This support allowed Lynn to move from survival mode to focusing fully on her education and long-term goals.
Building Confidence and Community
One experience that deeply impacted Lynn was attending the Spark of Hope event, where she met donors and alumni who had once been in her position. Hearing their stories strengthened her determination and reminded her that success was possible.
Her daughters have watched her persistence firsthand. They now talk excitedly about her graduation and proudly celebrate her journey, even asking playful questions about whether she gets recess at school.
Advice for Other Single Parents Considering College
Lynn shares this message for other single parents thinking about returning to school:
“Do it scared. Do it uncomfortably. Do it unsure. Just do it.”
By taking that first step, Lynn has transformed uncertainty into opportunity. She is building stability, breaking cycles, and creating a future she once thought impossible.
How SPSFNWA Helps Single Parents in Northwest Arkansas
The Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Northwest Arkansas supports eligible single parents pursuing higher education by providing:
- Scholarships for college or workforce training
- Career and academic support
- Counseling services
- Family support resources
👉 Learn more about SPSFNWA by reviewing our 2025 Annual Report HERE—> Annual Report
