Tools for Trades
About
Apply
Ways to Give
Removing barriers.
Empowering future trades professionals.
Why it Matters
Skilled trades are essential to every thriving community, yet many students preparing to enter these fields face a major barrier: the cost of professional‑grade tools required for employment. Without the right tools, graduates often struggle to secure jobs or are forced to start their careers in debt.
The Tools for Trades Scholarship helps bridge that gap—ensuring students begin their careers equipped, confident, and ready to contribute.
Our Response
The Tools for Trades Scholarship provides graduating community college students with professional, trade‑specific tool sets valued at $500–$600.
Through a competitive application process, recipients receive toolkits curated by industry professionals and tailored to their specific field—whether plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or carpentry.
These kits may include:
- Cordless drills and batteries
- HVAC manifold sets
- Torch kits
- Pipe wrenches and pliers
- Voltage testers
- Hammers, headlamps, tape measures
- Heavy‑duty tool bags and accessories
Each toolkit equips students to step confidently into the workforce with the tools employers expect.
This award is currently available at these local colleges: Surry Community College, Forsyth Tech, Davidson-Davie Community College.
A special thanks goes to the Emily‑Millis‑Hiatt Fund of the High Point Community Foundation,
whose generosity has supported a large portion of this program.
Apply for the Tools for Trades Scholarship
Eligibility
- Graduating or completing a trade program at an eligible community college (Surry Community College, Forsyth Tech, Davidson-Davie Community College)
- Enrolled in plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or carpentry
- Planning to enter the workforce immediately after program completion
How to Apply
Application Link:
Deadline:
Award Notifications:
How to Support
Your gift helps equip students with the tools they need to begin strong, stable careers in the skilled trades.
Cash/Check
Make checks payable to: Shallow Ford Foundation Address: PO Box 755, Yadkinville, NC 27055
Online
Make a one-time or recurring gift securely at: sff.gives.
Stocks or Noncash Assets
Call us for transfer instructions (gifting appreciated assets may offer tax advantages).
Qualified Charitable Distribution
Direct a gift from your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).
Multi-Year Pledge
Prefer to give over time? We’ll send an annual invoice in the amount you choose. Contact us to establish your planned pledge.