Fred W. Smith Educational Fund

Although the FRED W. SMITH EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION has existed for over forty years (when it was first known as the Fred W. Smith Scholarship Foundation), it was formally incorporated under the laws of the State of the California in 1991 as a non-profit, public benefit corporation [501(c)(3)]. It has, and always has had, the specific and primary purpose of making interest-free loans to college students in order to help them continue their education beyond high school. To that end, the Foundation has lent over $150,000.00 over the years to qualified students.

The Foundation’s by-laws impose only two qualifications upon students who wish to receive funds: one, that he or she be a resident of Ventura County; and two, that he or she state a financial need. There is no grade-average requirement. Loans are continued each year, up to a total of four years, contingent upon the student remaining in school and satisfying school requirements.

Beginning in the year 2005, the foundation amended its by-laws so that it may accept scholarships from donors on behalf of the Ventura Downtown Lions Club All Star Football program. This enables donors to receive a tax deductions for their contributions.

The Ventura Downtown Lions Club is a proud supporter of the Foundation. Fred W. Smith himself was a member of our Club, and was, among other things, President of the International Association of Lions Clubs in 1947-48. Also, each year, five of the Club’s most recent Past Presidents serve as Directors on the Foundation’s Board, with the Chairman being the fifth Past President. Two other members of the Club serve each year on the Board and are elected to their positions by the Club.

The ability of the Foundation to sustain itself financially is accomplished through annual Ventura Downtown Lions Club contributions, individual Club member donations, fund raisers, gifts from the community, and, of course, repayment of the loans. If you or someone you know is interested in applying for an interest-free college loan, or making a financial contribution, please contact the Foundation through this website.