It is one of 1200 national chapters of CSF of America, founded in 1959 in Fall River, MA by Dr. Irving Fradkin.  His unique idea of local people raising "Dollars for Scholars" for local students was successful and spread throughout the United States.  Mansfield was one of the first chapters formed.

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Q.  Who are the members of CSF?
A.  Anyone can be a member.  We are a diverse group of parents, students, community leaders, business and professional people who share a commitment to raise funds so that Mansfield students can achieve their educational goals.  Every member is a dedicated volunteer.

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Q.  How is the money for CSF awards raised?
A.  Our main funding sources continue to be direct mail campaigns, special events, and contributions from business and industry.  We can now count on the interest earned from endowment funds which have reached a total of more than $390,000.

Over the years, Mansfield businesses have been generous in their support of local students.  Individuals have been outstanding in their participation in such events as the Telethon, Night at the Pops, holiday window painting, calendar sales, and direct mailings.  Even the most modest contributions are needed and welcome.  We are proud that over 98% of the money raised in Mansfield has been given back to the people of Mansfield in the form of scholarships.  Besides, about 2% of the money raised is spent in Mansfield for operating expenses.

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Q.  What kinds of awards are given?
A.  It is the intent of the CSF Awards Committee members to meet some of the unmet financial need of as many qualified applicants as possible.  Grants are based on the number of qualified applicants and the amount of money available from fund raising efforts.  The amount of specific awards may vary from $300 to $1500.  Awards are renewable, but students must re-apply each year.  Awards are distributed in January of each school year, made payable to the student and the institution he or she is attending.

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Q.  Who may apply for a CSF award?
A.  Any Mansfield resident who plans to attend an accredited post-secondary institution as a full-time student or to pursue an apprenticeship program in the trades, and who can demonstrate financial need should apply.  Mansfield graduates of high schools and trade schools outside of Mansfield, as well as students having a GED, are also eligible to apply.

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Q.  How does one apply?
A.  All applicants must complete either a CSF first-time application for Seniors or a re-application for graduates.  Forms are available at the MHS guidance office, Mansfield Public Library and on the Mansfield Public School website and must be returned to CSF, P.O. Box 23, Mansfield by the designated date.  Be sure to meet the deadline.  If you are filing the CSS/Financial Aid Profile, be sure to include the CSF of Mansfield (code #0284) in the list of institutions to receive your financial analysis.  If you are filing only the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form, be sure to include a copy of the Student Aid Report (SAR) with your application.

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Q.  How are recipients chosen?
A.  The CSF Awards Committee makes the final determination based on the student's financial need as shown by the FAFSA analysis and other pertinent information obtained from the application.  All information is confidential and anonymous.  Each applicant is represented by a number only.

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Q.  Isn't it true that since more students are attending state supported institutions, the need for money has actually decreased?
A.  While it is true that more students are applying to state institutions, it is also true that costs have risen even there.  Private institutions continue to charge higher tuition and fees.  For some students, their only choice is to incur heavy personal debt.  CSF scholarships can help to lighten that burden.

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Q.  Is there any way that I can give a special gift to CSF?
A.  There certainly is!  You can designate a bequest to CSF of Mansfield in your will.  Or you may wish to establish a permanent scholarship in the name of any individual or organization by contributing a minimum of $3000.  The donated funds will be invested by CSF of Mansfield and the income will be used to provide a scholarship each year to be awarded on behalf of the individual or organization you designate.  The $3000 contribution does not have to be made all at one time.  Arrangements can be made for initial contribution of $600, and the remainder can be contributed gradually by you and others who may wish to join you in honoring the person or organization you have named.

Some Mansfield people have already made such arrangements.  In fact, you may wish to designate your contribution to be added to an already existing fund.  If so, simply indicate the name of the fund you have chosen on your check. 

If you are interested in establishing a permanent fund, we suggest you discuss the arrangement with your attorney and CSF of Mansfield, P.O. Box 23, Mansfield, MA 02048.

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Q.  I'm really not in a financial position to give a large contribution now.  Is there any other way I can help?
A.  We are always looking for volunteers.  We need creative people, typists, drivers, artists, writers, but mostly we need people committed to our community's needs who will inspire students to pursue educational opportunities after high school.

Remember...
All Contributions are Tax Deductible!