Financial Grants
We don’t want the price of the Star Island experience to prevent people from experiencing a Star Gathering conference. Our community is diverse in many ways, and this includes economic diversity. We actively encourage people who are on the fence about coming to apply for a financial grant, especially folks for whom Star Island is their one big annual trip.
Financial grant funds are offered to help offset the cost of standard room and board while on the island. All conferees are responsible for conference fees (this is what covers all the conference programming), parking (if you leave a car on the dock while you are on island), and any “extras” you may purchase while on the island (for example, gift shop purchases or tickets for special excursions) To help everyone in this process and to make all of the related costs transparent, the Star Island Corporation has developed a Star Island Cost Calculator.
Note that some conference volunteer roles - leading a morning program, for example - come with a stipend that can also help offset room and board rates. These opportunities are separate from the financial grants process. If you are interested in taking on such a role during your conference week, please reach out to your conference chairs!
A small portion of the SIUCC financial grants budget is provided by legacy gifts established by Star Gathering families. The Star Island Corporation also contributes towards financial grants for Star Gathering attendees. However, the bulk of the Fund is raised annually through auctions and other fun events held during Star Gathering conferences each summer.
The Star Island UCC (SIUCC) Board and the Star Island Corporation work together to offer a streamlined Financial Grants process, with a single (confidential) application. Together, we strive to help as many applicants as possible within the allocated budget each year.
The Financial Grants application deadline for Star Gathering 1, Star Gathering 1 Youth, and Star Gathering 2 is April 15, and decisions will be mailed by May 15. The application deadline for Star Gathering Family Weekend is July 1, with decisions mailed by July 15. Late applications will be considered if there are funds remaining.
Please remember to check the box on your application to allow your information to be shared with the conference! Applications are held in the strictest confidentiality and are not viewed by conference staff. All financial assistance funds will be applied directly to the applicant’s on-island bill by the Island Registrar.
Give the Gift of Fun
Donations like yours make providing grants and scholarships possible while also supporting the staffing and maintenance costs of Star Island.
Consider giving the gift of fun by making a monetary contribution here.