Tender Steps of New York Scholarship Program: Empowering Growth, Engagement, and Mentorship

GEMS: Growth, Engagement, & Mentorship Leads to Success

Application Closed: Apply Today for the Tender Steps of New York, Inc. Scholarship

Education changes lives. At Tender Steps of New York, Inc. (TSONY), we believe access to education should never be limited by circumstance. That’s why our scholarship program exists: to support students and families who are navigating barriers while striving for a better future.

Our work is grounded in community, equity, and opportunity. If you or someone you know could benefit from educational support, now is the time to apply.

Who We Are

Tender Steps of New York, Inc. is a community-based nonprofit organization led by individuals who come from humble beginnings and deeply understand the challenges faced by underserved communities.

We are committed to improving social conditions that negatively impact the well-being of individuals, families, and communities, including:

• Inequities in education

• Language and access barriers

• Violence and community safety concerns

• Citizenship status challenges

Through partnerships, mentorship, and culturally responsive programming, we work to expand opportunity and create lasting change.

Why Our Scholarship Matters

The Tender Steps of New York Scholarship Program is designed to support students and families who are committed to growth but may face financial or systemic barriers.

Our scholarships help recipients:

• Pursue educational and career goals

• Reduce financial stress related to schooling

• Access mentorship and community support

• Build pathways to long-term success

This is more than financial assistance. It’s an investment in potential, resilience, and leadership.

Who Should Apply

You may be a good fit for the Tender Steps of New York scholarship if you are:

• A student pursuing education or career training

• A young person or family facing financial or access barriers

• A community member committed to personal growth and community impact

📌 Applications are open now, and space is limited.

Our Community in Action: Upcoming Events

Tender Steps of New York continues to create spaces for learning, connection, and empowerment through community events.

Portraits of Lineage: A Celebration of Cultural Stories

October 4, 2025 | Louis Kurtz Civic Center A celebration honoring culture, heritage, and storytelling.

Parent and Youth Conference

March 14, 2026 | Rockland Community College | 8:00 AM–1:00 PM A conference focused on education, advocacy, and family engagement.

12th Annual Visionary Luncheon

April 18, 2026 | Crowne Plaza Suffern | 1:00 PM–5:00 PM

Keep Rockland Beautiful: Highway Cleanups

Multiple dates throughout 2025–2026 Join us in strengthening our community through environmental stewardship.

Leadership You Can Trust

Tender Steps of New York is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors committed to transparency, equity, and community impact.

2025–2026 Board Members include:

• Evelyn Bautista-Miller, Founder & President

• Sandra Ortiz, MD, Vice President

• Steven Edwards, Treasurer

• Rachel Schlegel, Secretary

• Ronda Mercado, Board Liaison

• Socorro Diaz

• Evenide Fanfan-Vilcean

• John O’Neill

Take the Next Step Today

If education, mentorship, and opportunity matter to you, we invite you to take action.

🎓 Apply for the Tender Steps of New York Scholarship

🤝 Partner with us

📅 Attend an upcoming event

💛 Support our mission

Together, we are building pathways to success through Growth, Engagement, and Mentorship.