Recreation Scholarship Program

We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to participate in recreation activities. Financial needs-based scholarship assistance is available to qualifying individuals for many recreation programs. The goal is to remove financial barriers for community members with limited financial resources.

In the last year, approximately 1,230 households, and 3,202 individuals have participated in programs with support that provides safe, enriching activities and contribute to a physically active community.

  • Click here to complete the online Recreation Scholarship Application.
  • Haga clic aquí para completar la Solicitud de Beca para Actividades de Recreación en línea.

You can also print and complete the PDF application and instructions below.
También puede imprimir y completar la solicitud en formato PDF y seguir las siguientes instrucciones.

Recreational Scholarship Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for scholarship?

Eligibility is based on household income and the number of dependents living in the household, and align with the Federal Poverty Guidelines and other assistance programs. Generally, you may be eligible for scholarship assistance if your household qualifies for SNAP, TANF, Oregon Health Plan (adults must be listed).

Where can I find an application?

You can fill out the confidential online application by clicking here.

Applications can be printed at www.bendparksandrec.org/scholarship or you can pick up an application at any District business location including:

Who can apply for the Recreation Scholarship?

An adult or legal guardian in the household completes the application and is responsible for providing accurate information and current documentation. The definition of legal dependent is a son, daughter, grandchild or foster child who lives with you more than half the year. People who live outside the BPRD service boundaries may receive scholarship assistance; however, they must pay the Out-of-District portion of the program fee.

How do I submit my application?

You may submit your application at any time; however, allow at least one week for processing prior to registering for an activity.  Applications along with eligibility documentation can be submitted in any of the following ways:

  • Online using our confidential application.
  • Mail to Juniper Swim & Fitness Center c/o Scholarships, 800 NE 6th St, Bend, OR 97701
  • Drop off in a sealed envelope marked “Scholarship Application” at any District business location including: Juniper Swim & Fitness Center (800 NE 6th St), Bend Senior Center (1600 SE Reed Market Road), The Pavilion (1001 SW Bradbury Way), or the District Office (799 SW Columbia St).

What documentation is required?

Please provide documentation in order to determine eligibility. You may do this by submitting any one of the following:

  • Current eligibility/award letter for SNAP, TANF or Oregon Health Plan, OR
  • Copy of most recent Federal 1040 income tax returns, OR

If you are unable to provide either of these, you may submit other documentation of income (such as SSA/SSI Benefit Statements, last 3 months of paycheck stubs, etc.).

How confidential is my application?

The District will keep all application materials and supporting documentation confidential and will not share the application materials with other individuals, organizations, or agencies without your express approval. Only District staff who review and approve scholarship applications will have access to the submitted materials.

When will I hear back about my submitted application?

You will be notified of the status of your scholarship application within 5 business days of submitting the completed application and documentation.

How long is my scholarship valid?

Once approved, a scholarship is valid for one year. You will need to reapply annually to be considered for renewal.  Renewal cannot be guaranteed as your household situation and District resources may change.

What activities/programs can I use the scholarship for?

Scholarships can be used for most recreation programs and facility passes. Some services are not eligible for Recreation Scholarship assistance, including private and specialized classes, facility rentals and merchandise.

How do I know how much assistance I receive with scholarship?

Scholarship assistance ranges from 25-percent to 75-percent of the regular fee depending on the applicant’s level of need and the specific program or activity for which the applicant is registering. Once approved, the reduced fee will be shown in your shopping cart when you register online.  You can also check with our Scholarship Team to find out specific program fees. Participants must pay the non-scholarship portion of the fee at the time of registration; however, if this is a hardship, you may check with the Scholarship Team about additional funds available through the Bend Park & Recreation Foundation.

What if I have questions or need help?

Questions about eligibility or process are welcomed! Call 541-706-6238 or email scholarships@bendparksandrec.org  (Español: 541-706-1212 o  becas@bendparksandrec.org.)

Questions?

Questions about eligibility or process are welcomed! Call 541-706-6238 or email scholarships@bendparksandrec.org  (Español: 541-706-1212 o  becas@bendparksandrec.org.)

Everyone can play.

Additional support with program fees and equipment may be available through funding provided by Bend Park & Recreation Foundation.

Important Email Security Notice:

The District email system is not encrypted.  Please be aware that the security of email transmissions is always subject to the security of the sender’s email and the method by which the email is sent.  By transmitting information to the District electronically, you assume the risk that your information might be intercepted by unintended third parties, and you agree that the District will not be responsible for any damages you might suffer as a result of such security breaches.  The District makes no warranties regarding the security of information transmitted electronically to the District.  To avoid the risks of transmitting your information via email, you may submit your scholarship application using the online application and documentation above or by U.S. mail or in person, as described above.