Tender Steps of New York Scholarship Program: Empowering Growth, Engagement, and Mentorship
- Jan 15
- 2 min read
GEMS: Growth, Engagement, & Mentorship Leads to Success
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–12:00 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 In collaboration with Rockland BOCES Hudson Valley Pathways in Technology Early College High School.
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.
🤝 Partner with us
📅 Attend an upcoming event
💛 Support our mission
Together, we are building pathways to success through Growth, Engagement, and Mentorship.


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