--- title: Carl Smith Stay-in-School Program | Supporting Students’ Success | Rotary --- [Skip to content](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/stay-in-school-mentorship-and-scholarships-carl-smith-program#main-content) Members Section [2024-25 Annual Report](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/Documents/en-ca/9129594d-a171-4ecf-a396-7d2196c9cdb9/1/) [The Club Hub](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942) [My Rotary](https://my.rotary.org/en) [RCCD YouTube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIVJdjN8Ah330oYVGz5RpWg) [Our Bulletins](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-bulletins?hsLang=en) [Rotary District 5360](https://rotary5360.ca/) [![RCDC-Logo](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/RCDC-Logo.svg "RCDC-Logo")](http:/?hsLang=en) × [Home](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/?hsLang=en) About #### [![Rectangle 111](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20111.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20111.jpg) About Us Discover the history of the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown and our ongoing dedication to service, community impact, and global connections.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/about?hsLang=en) #### [![Rectangle 112](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20112.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20112.jpg) Community Impact Learn how the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown drives change locally and globally through initiatives in literacy, wellness, education, and more.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/community-impact?hsLang=en) Get Involved #### [![Rectangle 111-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20111-1.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20111-1.jpg) Get Involved Discover how to get involved with the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown through club meetings, events, and supporting impactful programs.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/get-involved?hsLang=en) #### [![Rectangle 112-2](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20112-2.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20112-2.jpg) Become a Member Learn about membership responsibilities, benefits, and how to join the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown as an individual, joint, or corporate member.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/become-member?hsLang=en) #### [![Rectangle 114-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20114-1.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20114-1.jpg) Club Meetings & Events Explore upcoming Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown meetings and events, where members connect, collaborate, and support meaningful initiatives.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/events?hsLang=en) #### [![Rectangle 116-1](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Rectangle%20116-1.jpg?width=271&height=194&name=Rectangle%20116-1.jpg) Volunteer Opportunities Discover volunteer opportunities with the Rotary Club of Calgary Downtown and support impactful events aligned with our five areas of focus.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/volunteer-opportunities?hsLang=en) What We Fund #### [![20161116_BR_086](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/20161116_BR_086.jpg?width=2000&name=20161116_BR_086.jpg) Signature Legacy Projects  The Legacy Signature Projects support community initiatives that create lasting change in Calgary and surrounding communities through innovative and sustainable investments. ](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/sitepage/legacy-projects/signature-legacy-projects) #### [![md_cDynfP7Iks71J1x4](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/md_cDynfP7Iks71J1x4.jpg?width=550&height=367&name=md_cDynfP7Iks71J1x4.jpg) Major Donations Major Donations Committee reviews community projects and recommends grants over $10,000 that align with our Club’s charitable goals. Most awards range from $10,000 to $25,000 and support both capital projects and programs.  ](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/SitePage/major-local-donations) #### [![md_6rk0GMg4omZ91gNN](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/md_6rk0GMg4omZ91gNN.jpg?width=549&height=366&name=md_6rk0GMg4omZ91gNN.jpg) Rotary Helps YYC Support Rotary Helps YYC, a “one window” to apply for support from the following eight Calgary Rotary Clubs: Centennial, Chinook, Downtown, East, Fish Creek, Heritage, North and West. Clubs will consider applications serving Calgary and area.](https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-oNgBf5-WUuqr1QSM-StoKmuIOu8911FhmmboV_t41hUMzdGU1VTVVRIMFkyREZMWk5PNlg2NzZRVC4u&route=shorturl) #### [![20230319_AU_027](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/20230319_AU_027.jpg?width=2000&name=20230319_AU_027.jpg) Small Donations The Small Donations Committee receives and reviews funding requests, up to $10,000, from registered charitable organizations in Calgary and its surrounding areas.](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/sitepage/small-donations) #### [![20220407_US_095 (1)](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/20220407_US_095%20(1).jpg?width=2000&name=20220407_US_095%20(1).jpg) International Service Our International  Service programs includes activities with a global perspective in mind. This is one of the 5 Rotary AVENUES of Service.](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/world-community-services?hsLang=en) What We Do #### [![20241121_PE_050 (2)](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/20241121_PE_050%20(2).jpg?width=2000&name=20241121_PE_050%20(2).jpg) Rotary Stay-In-School Program Stay in School provides mentorship, support, and opportunities to help students overcome challenges and stay on track. The program guides youth toward graduation and reaching their full potential. ](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/stay-in-school-mentorship-and-scholarships-carl-smith-program?hs_preview=MsSPUWUu-211203182421&hsLang=en) #### [![DSC08508-2-105](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/DSC08508-2-105.jpg?width=2000&name=DSC08508-2-105.jpg) Rotary Stay-In-School Golf Classic is a fundraising event that brings the community together to support youth through education and mentorship. Proceeds from the tournament help students stay in school, graduate, and build brighter futures. ](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/2026-rotary-stay-in-school-golf-classic-support-education-and-mentorship-rotary-club-of-calgary-downtown?hs_preview=frtSYUPI-220487846421&hsLang=en) #### [![c50d4d02-a4fb-494b-acd8-5deb69de8810](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hs-fs/hubfs/c50d4d02-a4fb-494b-acd8-5deb69de8810.jpg?width=640&height=481&name=c50d4d02-a4fb-494b-acd8-5deb69de8810.jpg) Adopt A Village  The Adopt a Village program partners with local Rotary clubs in Uganda to support rural communities facing systemic challenges. ](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/adopt-a-village?hs_preview=xkfwuYgv-215079509380&hsLang=en) [Donate](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/donations) ![hero-graduates](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/hero-graduates.jpg) Carl Smith Stay-in-School Program ## Carl Smith Stay-in-School Program Founded in 1995 by Rotarian Carl Smith, the Carl Smith Stay-in-School Program was created to support students who have the potential to succeed but face economic and social barriers to Stay in School and complete their post secondary education. The program provides Long-term mentorship and post-secondary scholarships to local youth, helping them complete high school and enrol in post-secondary education. Students are selected in Grade 6 and matched with a dedicated mentor who supports them through Grade 12, offering consistency, encouragement and guidance during critical years. Upon graduating from high school, participants receive a post-secondary award to assist with tuition and related educational costs. Graduates are also recognized as **Marmie Hess Scholars,** honouring the legacy of **Margaret “Marmie” Hess (1916–2016)** — a Rotarian and lifelong learner who was deeply committed to youth education. ### Program at a Glance - 60 students currently supported - 40 active mentors - 300+ students graduated - 124 post-secondary scholarships ### Get Involved - ![angle-right](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/angle-right.png) [Become a Mentor](https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=2yXn3-v_KkWf8dZ9qTodaqWKfLF-MDJHv_Cb_U9SZYZUQU1VSTdCSFdTVzU1TVFWUDJaUzBQWkFMQy4u) - ![angle-right](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/angle-right.png) [Golf Classic Sponsorship](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/rotary-stay-in-school-golf-classic-support-education-and-mentorship-rotary-club-of-calgary-downtown?hsLang=en) - ![angle-right](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/angle-right.png) [Donate to the Program](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/donate/carl-smith-stay-in-school) ![mentor](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/mentor.jpg) ## Become a Mentor Do you want to make a lasting difference in a young person’s life? The Carl Smith Stay-in-School Program offers a meaningful opportunity to build long-term mentoring relationships with students who benefit from additional support. Mentors receive training, ongoing support, and access to program resources, with a commitment of **just one meeting per month.** Be the reason a student stays in school. **Apply to become a mentor today.** [Become a Mentor](https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=2yXn3-v_KkWf8dZ9qTodaqWKfLF-MDJHv_Cb_U9SZYZUQU1VSTdCSFdTVzU1TVFWUDJaUzBQWkFMQy4u) ## Rotary Stay-In-School Golf Classic The annual Stay-in-School Golf Classic is a key fundraising event that helps make the program possible. **Proceeds from the Golf Classic directly support:** - Post-secondary awards - Academic and extracurricular support - The long-term sustainability of the Stay-in-School Program [Learn More About the SIS Golf Classic](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/rotary-stay-in-school-golf-classic-support-education-and-mentorship-rotary-club-of-calgary-downtown?hsLang=en) ![golf-classic](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/golf-classic.jpg) ## Stay in School Success Stories Across the program, students receive early support, guidance, and encouragement at critical stages of their education. For many, that support is the difference between falling behind and moving forward. While not every student chooses to share their full story, the impact is consistent: more students staying in school, graduating, and pursuing what comes next. ![andrew-tran](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/andrew-tran.jpg) ### Andrew Tran The Carl Smith Stay in School program was essential in supporting me to where I am today. My mentor has been an incredible role model and inspiration throughout the years. His support was invaluable to me in my pursuit of post-secondary studies as the first in my family to do so. The resources Rotary provided alleviated the financial barriers associated with higher education allowing me to pursue my career aspirations. ![enas-2](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/enas-2.jpg) ### Enas Abduljabar Stay in School Program’, I was able to follow my dream of travelling the world. I was able to study Travel and Tourism, in which it helped me build a career I love. I became a flight attendant, travelling the world and experiencing new cultures every day. My mentor was truly one of a kind — his support meant everything to me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without this program. Thank you for everything! Stay In School Program Student Gallery ![Image (65)](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Image%20(65).jpg) ![Screenshot 2026-04-21 074516](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Screenshot%202026-04-21%20074516.png) ![Screenshot 2026-04-21 074657](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Screenshot%202026-04-21%20074657.png) ![Image (63)](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Image%20(63).jpg) ![Screenshot 2026-04-21 074734](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Screenshot%202026-04-21%20074734.png) ![Screenshot 2026-04-21 074612](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/Screenshot%202026-04-21%20074612.png) ## Contact Us For more information or to get involved, please contact us [Contact Us](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/contact-us?hsLang=en) [![RCDC-Logo-white](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/hubfs/RCDC-Logo-white.svg "RCDC-Logo-white")](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/?hsLang=en) ## Helpful Links [District 5360](https://rotary5360.ca/) [Rotary International](https://www.rotary.org/en) [Club Bulletins](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-bulletins?hsLang=en) ## Your Membership [Member Login](https://portal.clubrunner.ca/942/User/Login?ReturnController=Page&ReturnAction=Show&ClassCode=Page&Slug=the-club-hub) [Our Leaders](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-leaders?hsLang=en) [Our Partnerships](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/our-partnerships?hsLang=en) [Contact Us](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/contact-us?hsLang=en) ## Let’s Talk (403) 398-9969 [admin@rotaryclubofcalgary.ca](mailto:admin@rotaryclubofcalgary.ca) [Facebook icon](https://www.facebook.com/people/Rotary-Club-of-Calgary-Downtown/100076757280542/?_rdr) [Instagram icon](https://www.instagram.com/rotaryyyc/) [X Twitter icon](https://x.com/rotaryyyc) [LinkedIn icon](https://www.linkedin.com/company/rotaryclubofcalgarydowntown/) Powered by [ClubRunner](https://www.clubrunner.ca/) © 2002–2026  All rights reserved. [Privacy Statement](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/privacy-policy?hsLang=en) [Cookie Policy](https://rotaryclubofcalgary.org/cookie-policy?hsLang=en)