Our Impact

Investing in students while strengthening the future of our trades.

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Samantha Rosas - Scholarship
Carter Hice Work
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Creating Opportunities for Tomorrow’s Skilled Workforce

The Future of Our Trades Scholarship Foundation exists to support students pursuing education and careers in the skilled trades. By providing financial assistance, the foundation helps students access training programs, certifications, and hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them for meaningful, in-demand careers.

These scholarships remove barriers to entry while opening doors to professions that are essential to the strength of our local communities. By investing in education today, the foundation helps ensure a skilled, capable workforce for the future of the trades.

Measurable Impact. Meaningful Change.

The impact of the Blue Ridge Mountains Parade of Homes is measured not only in homes built, but in lives changed. Through the continued support of sponsors, builders, attendees, and community partners, the Parade has helped students from multiple local schools take meaningful steps toward careers in the skilled trades.

To date, the Parade’s scholarship efforts have supported 74 students from five local schools, awarding more than $830,000 in scholarships. These investments help students pursue education, certifications, and hands-on training—strengthening both individual futures and the skilled workforce our communities rely on.

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2025 Scholarship House

A House with Purpose

The Student Scholarship House is a unique way the Parade of Homes gives back to the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Built through generous donations and contributions from Parade builders and their contractors, vendors, and suppliers, each home represents a collective investment in students’ futures. To date, two Scholarship Houses have been built and sold, with a third home scheduled to begin construction in 2026. Proceeds from the sale of each home are directed back into the Foundation’s endowment. This lasting investment helps ensure scholarship support for students for generations to come.

Faces of the Foundation

Norma Solis
Norma Solis

Multi-year Recipient
Gilmer County High School

Partnerships That Power Opportunity​

Strong partnerships with local schools are at the heart of the Future of Our Trades Scholarship Foundation. Working closely with school districts across the North Georgia Mountains—including Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin, Union (GA), and Polk County Schools (TN)—the Foundation helps identify students who are well-suited for careers in the skilled trades. Each year, the scholarship application period opens in February, with recipients selected and awards presented during the first week of May. Students are nominated by their teachers, ensuring the program recognizes those who have demonstrated ability, aptitude, and a strong work ethic. These trusted partnerships with educators and school districts play a vital role in the Foundation’s ability to support students and build a strong future for the trades.

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Our Sponsors

Our sponsors play a vital role in making the Future of Our Trades Scholarship Foundation possible. Their support not only helps fund scholarships for students pursuing skilled trades careers, but also demonstrates a shared commitment to strengthening the workforce and local communities. Through sponsorship, businesses have the opportunity to give back while gaining meaningful visibility and connection with the Parade of Homes audience. Learn more about how you can become a sponsor and make an impact that benefits both students and your business.

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Open Doors to Skilled Careers

Make a Donation

Every gift supports students as they build skills, confidence, and lasting careers in skilled construction trades.

Donate Today!