If you have any questions about submitting an application or an application that has already been submitted please contact our Vice President of Programs, Samantha Chapman at samanthac@sentinelsoffreedom.org or (925) 380-6342 x309. 

Sept. 11, 2023

Prospective Sentinels of Freedom Candidates, 

Thank you for your interest in applying for the Spring 2024 Cohort of the Bridge for Education Program. We appreciate you taking the time to visit the application website, review what the Bridge for Education program entails, and express interest in receiving support while you work towards pursuing your educational goals. At this time, due to the effects of COVID-19 on fundraising, Sentinels of Freedom has made the difficult decision to place a hold on accepting applications for the Spring 2024 cohort as we re-evaluate the program benefits and restructure the support being offered. 

Before reviewing any applications, we want to ensure that we have the resources to provide support to those accepted and make sure we are providing a premier experience starting with your initial application process. To do this, we must reevaluate the offerings of the Bridge for Education Program to enable us to meet the needs of student veterans and be equipped to do so well into the future. 

Sincerely, 

Samantha Chapman

Vice President of Programs


WHAT IS SENTINELS OF FREEDOM?

Sentinels of Freedom is a national nonprofit organization that helps severely wounded post-9/11 veterans successfully transition to civilian life by providing comprehensive personal support. Our work helps these brave individuals complete their education, find career-focused employment, and gain financial independence. We complement their own individual drive, motivation, and positive attitude with meaningful assistance. Our support ranges from financial coaching to mentoring and career transition assistance. We help fill the gaps to ensure these brave individuals can achieve success in their post-military journey.

WHAT DOES THE SENTINEL'S BRIDGE FOR EDUCATION INCLUDE?

The Bridge for Education is a multi-year comprehensive support program that focuses support in the following areas:
 
EDUCATION
Veterans in our program are required to continue their formal education in line with their capabilities and goals. Education must be through a VA approved school.
 
MENTORING
We facilitate the identification of potential mentors and introductions to individuals who can assist in professional planning and personal and career development throughout the program term and as alumni.

CAREER & NETWORKING ASSISTANCE
During the program and as alumni, the Sentinels are presented with various networking opportunities to further their career path and can be introduced to prospective employers.

FINANCIAL COACHING & PLANNING
Free financial coaches and planners are available to each Sentinel. This can be by request or it may be required by SOF due to the financial circumstances of the individual. The planners will help the Sentinel to establish basic budgeting skills and learn how to build up their financial worth.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE SENTINEL'S BRIDGE FOR EDUCATION?

  • Member of any branch of the armed forces, active, guard or reserves who have been wounded or injured, in a combat or training related event post 9/11. 
  • Received a VA disability rating of 60% or higher as listed on their VA Rating Statement.
  • Have received or will be receiving an honorable discharge.
  • Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in full-time post-secondary education or vocational school. Must be a VA approved school (SOF can be flexible on the full-time requirement in certain circumstances, depending on the level of injury and ability to maintain full-time education).
  • Highly motivated individuals with the drive to reach personal, educational and career goals.
  • Must be willing to actively engage with mentor and networking opportunities provided by SOF.

Please note: In order to receive financial assistance you must no longer be receiving active duty pays and be honorably discharged from your time of service. Depending on the timing of your release from active duty or retirement we may be able to accept you before that date, but financial assistance will not start until your official discharge.

It is recommended that you are no more than 6 months out from your official discharge date when you apply. 


 WHEN SHOULD I APPLY?

We have two application windows:
Window #1 (for fall semester): Applications are accepted until June 1.
The accepted applications will be notified in late July for the August school start.

Window #2 (for spring semester): Applications are accepted until November 1.
The accepted applicants will be notified in late December for the January school start.
Applications may be submitted at any time, but will only be reviewed after the two primary review deadlines.

Complete the online application package which Includes:

  • Authorization for Disclosure
  • Request for Information Packet- Personal & Military Information, including housing, education, and injury information
  • Personal Statement outlining education, career, and personal goals 
  • Financial Worksheet
  • Photograph & Video Release
  • Two Photographs
  • DD 2-14 (Only Member 4 Form will be accepted)
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • College Transcripts, if applicable
  • VA Rating Statement
  • Background/ Credit Report
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