Community Stories

"What Makes a House a Home?"

learn more about the 2021 Coldwell Banker Scholarship Essay Contest.

The 2021 Coldwell Banker "What Makes a House a Home?" scholarship essay contest is open for Thurston County high school students, now through May 2. Since 2011, Coldwell Banker, Evergreen Olympic Realty has awarded over $20,000 in scholarships to support local students.

Over the years, students have shared powerful stories about their experiences and the meaning of home. Their essays have provided insight and inspiration for our community, while giving students a financial boost to pursue their educational goals. The top scholarship winner is also invited to invest back in their school community by selecting a local educator to receive a $500 Inspirational Educator Award. The Community Foundation is proud to support this scholarship, and we look forward—as we do every year—to reading these essays, learning from them, and celebrating our local students.

3 Scholarships Available: $1,000, $750, and $500

Who is Eligible? Any high school student who is either:

  • A resident of Thurston County or
  • Attends a high school located in Thurston County

Important Dates:

  • Essay Submissions - 4/12/21 - 5/2/21
  • Winners announced in May 2021

Eligible contestants may enter one, no more than 500-word essay that describes why a house is more than just a shelter and what makes it a home.

Visit our scholarship page for full eligibility and details, and then visit the "What Makes a House a Home?" scholarship site to apply.

Gallery

Explore more photos from this Community Story! Click to enlarge the photos below.

No items found.
Community In Focus

An Unfinished Country: Reflections on Our Work in Progress

Mindie Reule, Community Foundation President & CEO, reflects on stewardship, community, and the ongoing work of building a stronger future together as America reaches 250 years as a country.

Read the Story
Investing in Youth

Celebrating the Class of 2026

This year, 84 students received $310,500 in scholarship awards through the Community Foundation. Join us in celebrating this year’s graduates and meet two of this year's student scholars!

Read the Story
Community Impact

Youth Mental Health Learning Cohort

Supporting young people takes strong, connected organizations. See how shared learning helped local partners build relationships, strengthen their work, and launch new collaborations.

Read the Story