Anishinaabe and Dakota Territory, MB – The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) celebrated the success of its seventh annual fundraising golf tournament, raising over $110,000 to support scholarships for First Nations students. This year’s tournament was the most successful to date, helping fund both annual and endowed scholarships for students from SCO-member Nations.
Supporting First Nation Youth through Education
SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels emphasized the importance of education in empowering the next generation of leaders. “By investing in education, we are providing a transformative pathway for our young people, opening doors that may have otherwise remained out of reach,” said Daniels. The event, which has quickly become a much-anticipated community tradition, sold out within days, drawing a wide range of supporters, including local businesses and community members who are passionate about advancing educational opportunities for First Nations students.
25th Anniversary Scholarships
In celebration of SCO’s 25th anniversary, the organization will award 25 annual scholarships, administered by Indspire and Manitoba post-secondary institutions. Over the past five years, SCO has created endowed scholarships at Red River College Polytech, Brandon University, Manitoba Institute for Trades and Technology, and Assiniboine College. These scholarships are available to southern First Nation students attending any post-secondary institution, providing ongoing support for future leaders.
A Community Effort: Sponsors Step Up for Education
The success of the tournament was made possible by contributions from community sponsors. RBC served as the Platinum Sponsor, with Gold sponsorship from PCL Construction and Assiniboine College. Many other businesses contributed at Silver, Bronze, and Hole Sponsorship levels, ensuring that SCO can continue its mission to support First Nations education.
This year’s proceeds will fund 25 scholarships for Anishinaabe and Dakota students attending universities or colleges in Manitoba, bringing the total number of students supported to 90. SCO’s Youth Chief Tréchelle Bunn remarked, “The tournament’s success reflects our collective commitment to uplifting the next generation of leaders. We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and supporters for sharing this vision.”
