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"Against All Odds" is much more than a 1980s Phil Collins song. For a surprising number of Peoria students it represents their life and all they've accomplished "against all odds." 
The Peoria Educational Enrichment Foundation, Inc. (PEEF) raises money for the Peoria Unified School District to fund educational initiatives that enhance the district's curriculum. One of these projects is a unique scholarship, "Against All Odds," which is supported by APS. These $2,000 college scholarships are awarded to high school seniors who have overcome significant adversity to complete their high school coursework. These remarkable young men and women have faced health issues, language barriers, adult responsibilities, family tragedies and/or financial hardship, difficulties far beyond their years.
The scholarship is awarded to students like Sean Martin of Cactus High school. Martin was born without any arms and legs. Yet, he is admired as a painter, musician and student by both his peers and teachers who describe his smile and positive attitude as contagious. Thanks to his scholarship, Martin will be attending Glendale Community College to take general education courses before applying to an art institute where he plans to study animation.
"These students are amazing and inspiring," says Michelle Lehman, project manager, transmission and facility siting. "This program honors kids for their achievements, and for their perseverance. Students with good grades have many scholarship opportunities, but there aren't many programs which recognize kids for dedicating themselves to succeeding, despite overwhelming obstacles."
Last year, nine scholarships were presented. The stories represented were heart-wrenching and heart-warming. Scholarships were presented to students who had lost parents to cancer, lived in group homes, faced multiple open heart surgeries, were legally blind and dealt with severe hearing impairment. The one trait they all shared was the determination to overcome their challenges and become productive members of society.
According to Kris Murray, PEEF president, these scholarships would not be possible without corporate sponsors such as APS.
"APS has been a tremendous help to us," she says. "Their support allows us to cover our costs so that all the funds we raise can go back to the students. The 'Against All Odds' scholarship is so unique and inspiring. The difficulties these kids have faced have been overwhelming. But, with APS' help, they're graduating, giving back to their community and going on to further their education. We simply couldn't be more thrilled with APS' involvement and with these student's achievements."
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