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The Andalusia Office Professionals Association takes pride in benefiting the local community, especially with supporting adults who are employed and looking into furthering their education.

This year, the association raised $2,470 and is able to award $2,200 to five recipients. Scholarships were awarded to Emily Cain, Tiffany Harris, Vidya Pierce, Jayden Powell, and Jeremie Shaffer.

“AOPA is a group of office professionals devoted to making Covington County a better place for our families, friends and neighbors. As a member for the past several years, I have witnessed membership expansion and an increase in community outreach. I am thankful to be part of such an organization willing to assist the people in our community and for the opportunity to serve and support the needs of others,” said AOPA President Trece Mays.

Adults who are currently employed full-time in a business-related field and are pursuing an education in a professional field of study are eligible. Scholarship applications may be obtained by emailing Kathryn.Bush@southeastgas.com.

“Receiving this scholarship means that I get to continue my education to better myself and continue to reach my education goals. My education journey has had a few bumps along the way, but this scholarship is helping me get back on track. I am grateful to be involved with AOPA because it is a great way to network between other office professionals. I think that it is wonderful to have an organization that supports those who work in a professional position to continue their education,” Powell said.

“This scholarship will enable me to continue pursuing my education. My son is a student at Troy University, and it’s no secret that the cost of education takes a toll on a family’s budget. This generous scholarship helps relieve some of that pressure. AOPA is an organization of professionals who take pride in giving back to the community and helping people with various needs that arise. I feel this is a worthwhile way to invest some of my time,” Shaffer said.

“This scholarship really helps financially. It helps for us to go back to school, give back to the community, and help each other. It’s hard to get involved in the community without being in a circle. We can help each other out in good times and bad times,” Pierce said.

“By receiving this scholarship, it will help me afford the opportunity to better my career and my life. As a member of AOPA, I have a chance to fellowship to create good friendships with other ladies of the community and give back,” Harris said.

“I am very honored that I was considered and awarded a scholarship from AOPA. It’s an exciting time, and I look forward to continuing my education. I am very thankful for the assistance AOPA has given me. AOPA members spend countless hours helping others. It is a wonderful organization, and our community benefits tremendously from their selfless dedication,” Cain said.

Other than the long-standing tradition of the annual scholarship fundraiser raffle, where each $1 ticket earns a chance to win $200, the AOPA organizes the annual Monster Mash Dash 5K Run/Walk fundraiser with the support of the community and local businesses. The association utilizes the amount collected to support local organizations, benevolence needs, as well as the aforementioned scholarships.

This year’s Monster Mash Dash will be held on Oct. 21. The Andalusia Office Professionals Association holds its monthly meetings at noon on the first Thursday of each month at Tabby D’s.

For more information on scholarships or the AOPA email Yvonne Sowell at Yvonne.Lo@powersouth.com.