When can rowers apply for reduced fees?

Rowers or their families can apply for reduced fees at any time, but must allow time for review. We request applications 20 days prior to when payment is owed. Typically, student athletes apply before the fall rowing season, and any award will be applied to both the fall and spring rowing seasons. Adult athletes must apply twice per year, typically in the summer and at the beginning of the calendar year. 

Why is the process different for adults and juniors?

The juniors program is paid over two semesters that runs just over 8 months. We make an assumption that the family's financial status will not change during that time period. Otherwise, we would have to ask families to submit separate applications for two four-month periods, which we find too burdensome for the junior program.

Why do adults need to reapply and provide documentation every 6 months?

There is no requirement that a rower notify the committee when their financial condition has changed (i.e. when there is a change in the financial circumstances of the rower such as when an unemployed rower has obtained a new job). Accordingly, the six month reapplication period confirms that there has been no change in the financial condition of the rower. This process ensures that we continue to be fair, awarding the largest packages to applicants with the most need. Additionally, this timing works both ways: those applicants whose need has increased might receive higher awards when reapplying. Some rowers assume that receiving an award disqualifies them from obtaining a larger one, which is not true. The six month reapplication process ensures that everyone has the opportunity to seek an adjustment of their award based on changed circumstances. 

Why do applicants need to submit tax information?

We require the submission of only the first page of the most recent federal tax return (with SSNs deleted) in order to confirm income. This practice is typical for rowing clubs and for any entity granting financial aid. It also ensures that the awards granted are fair and equitable to the applicants and fullfills the committee's fiduciary obligation to EBRC. In the rare case that tax returns are not available the committee will work with the rower to find an alternative method of documenting income.

If someone has lost a job, the tax information may not show the reduced income, so why require it?

We request identical information, including tax returns, from all applicants in order to be as fair as we can be. There is a question on the form requesting other relevant information where applicants can explain a change in circumstances since the last return. We are open to receiving additional documentation or explanations that clarify why the tax returns may not reflect the current financial situation accurately. Extenuating circumstances are also taken into account - including family situation (# of people in family living off of this income, monthly expenses - including rent, mortgage, insurance, groceries, car payments…).

Who knows who is applying for reduced fees, and who sees the information that is submitted?

The members of the financial aid committee, a very small semi-anonymous committee, are the only ones who know who applies for reduced fees, and the only people who have access to the information submitted. Documents are deleted after review.

Can we make the process more anonymous by asking the outside bookkeeper to run the numbers? 

No, there are too many variables in the application process to delegate review to someone who is outside the club, and whose expertise is not focussed on financial assistance. We find that a small committee composed of people charged with carrying out EBRC’s mission of making rowing financially accessible has been the best way to both allocate assistance and maintain confidentiality. 

Is there a budget for financial aid? 

EBRC has no financial aid budget, and EBRC has never turned away a rower because we cannot provide needed assistance. 

Do we track the amounts awarded every year?

We track the total amount awarded, and going forward we will make that part of our financial reporting, both for juniors and adults. 

Do we know if people leave EBRC or OUR because of finances? Is this a question on our exit survey? 

We don't specifically inquire if someone is departing from EBRC due to financial reasons, but should a rower mention this as their cause, we promptly recommend that they submit an application for financial aid. We recognize that it is likely that some people would prefer to just leave rather than apply for financial aid and to that end we have tried to make the application process as accessible and anonymous as possible given the fiduciary responsibilities of the committee and board to ensure club funds are being spent in furtherance of its mission.  

Need more help?

If you have any further questions about financial assistance or the application process, feel free to reach out to us directly. We're here to help you get on the water!