Michael Willingham
Legacy Scholarship

Are you a parent that has been working in the food & beverage, hospitality, or culinary industry (including suppliers and distributors) for at least five years? If so, your child has an opportunity to receive the BCHF Industry Scholarship Award if they have a GPA of 2.5 or higher on the latest transcript and are planning to study any hospitality diploma or degree including hotel/restaurant management, bar tending, sommelier, or culinary institutions.



The BCHF created this award to support families in the hospitality industry.

BIOGRAPHY

The story of the BC Hospitality Foundation began in the Fall of 2006 when long-time wine agent Michael Willingham had a brain aneurysm. It caused partial paralysis, left him unable to swallow, and damaged his lungs’ ability to breathe while sleeping. He wasn’t expected to survive, but surprised everyone by fighting back to a point where he could walk short distances on his own. Unfortunately, there was no clear medical solution, and the financial hardship he incurred was severe. Willingham's colleagues in the wine industry rallied and raised an initial $50,000 to help with his situation.


Willingham was deeply touched, but his experience made him realize how many people in the service industry —servers, cooks, baristas, concierges, brew masters, and more—exist precariously, often one missed paycheque or surprise health diagnosis away from financial disaster. He accepted the support, but with the recommendation that his colleagues set up a charitable organization that could provide similar help for others in the hospitality industry. They agreed, and thus the BC Hospitality Foundation was born.


Together, they created BCHF as a registered charity that raises funds to support those in the hospitality industry facing financial crisis due to a serious health condition. Each year, hospitality workers across B.C. face financial challenges and have nowhere else to turn. The BCHF helps them when all other options have been exhausted. We are the ONLY charity of its kind in Canada.


The BCHF, its founders, friends and many beneficiaries are forever grateful to Michael, who not only inspired the foundation’s genesis but also continued to support its activities even as he struggled with his own ongoing challenges. Truly, Michael Willingham made a difference in the lives of many people. He will be always in our thoughts.

IMPORTANT DATES


APLICATIONS OPEN: Year round

REWIEWING PERIOD: 2-3 weeks after review by the selection committee

CHEQUE PRESENTATION:  Cheque presented within 2-3 weeks

VALUE OF SCHOLARSHIP


$1,000

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS


Winners are expected to work in British Columbia in the hospitality industry sector for at least 2 years after receiving the scholarship

You are NOT eligible to receive this scholarship two consecutive years

You can apply to other relevant scholarships of the BCHF Scholarship Program

CRITERIA

Background

Provide your current place of work in the hospitality industry

Why are you applying?

Prepare a 400-word essay on why you need and deserve a $1,000 scholarship

Name or description of the course (s) you have applied for

Fill out the application form.


Academic Information

Provide copies of transcripts and any any wine studies diplomas

References

Two (2) reference letters from non-family members

Apply Now

Should you receive an award from the BC Hospitality Foundation, as a condition to your acceptance of this award, you agree that neither the BC Hospitality Foundation nor any of its officers, directors, employees or agents shall be responsible for any and all costs and expenses (other than, but not specifically limited to, tuition and other items identified in writing by the grantor of this scholarship). Should you receive an award from the BC Hospitality Foundation, permission is granted to use your name for publicity purposes.

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