In 1995, when the ROCORI Dollars for Scholars program awarded its very first scholarships, a graduating senior named Heidi Reitmeier was among the earliest recipients.
More than three decades later, that story has come full circle.
Now serving as the organization’s scholarship database manager, Heidi is helping today’s students access the same opportunity that once helped shape her future. This spring, her daughter, Allie Reitmeier, is applying for a ROCORI Dollars for Scholars scholarship herself—marking a rare and meaningful generational milestone for the local program.
“I never imagined I’d be sitting on the other side of the table one day,” Heidi said.
“Receiving a ROCORI Dollars for Scholars scholarship in 1995 made a real difference for me. It showed me that my community believed in my goals. Being able to give that same encouragement to today’s students—and now to my own daughter—is incredibly special.”
Allie says the program represents more than financial support.
“It feels like a tradition of community pride,” Allie said. “Knowing my mom was one of the first students helped by this program makes applying even more meaningful. It reminds me that people here want us to succeed and come back to make a difference.”
This year, ROCORI Dollars for Scholars hopes to distribute more than 120 scholarships to graduating seniors, continuing its long-standing mission of supporting students as they take their next step into college, technical training, or other post-secondary education.
“The need is greater every year,” Heidi said. “These scholarships don’t just help pay tuition—they give students confidence that they’re not doing this alone.”
The ROCORI Dollars for Scholars board invites the community to donate to the scholarship program by giving online at https://rocori.dollarsforscholars.org/ and click donate. Or, donors can mail checks to: ROCORI Dollars for Scholars P.O. Box 304 Cold Spring, MN 56320.
The organization is also encouraging all ROCORI seniors to apply for scholarships online at https://-rocori.dollarsforscholars.org/. The application process is designed to match students with as many scholarship opportunities as possible.
While celebrating its impact, the program is also facing an important transition. Several long-time board members will retire this spring, and the organization is seeking at least three new board members to keep the program strong and sustainable for future students.
In particular, ROCORI Dollars for Scholars is looking to fill two critical volunteer roles: A new Board President; and, volunteers interested in helping manage the scholarship database.
“These roles are vital to keeping the program running smoothly,” Heidi said. “You don’t have to be an expert—just someone who cares about students and is willing to learn. This program has been here for generations, and we need new leaders to carry it forward.”
As the Reitmeier family story shows, ROCORI Dollars for Scholars is more than a scholarship fund—it’s a legacy of community support that connects past, present, and future students.
“For me, this program is proof that small acts of generosity can echo for decades,” Heidi said. “I’m proud to be part of something that helped me and now helps my daughter and so many others.”
Community members interested in serving on the ROCORI Dollars for Scholars Board or volunteering with the scholarship database are invited to reach out to the board at rocoridollarsforscholars@gmail.com.
For more information on scholarships or board service opportunities, visit the ROCORI Dollars for Scholars website or contact a current board member.
Heidi Reitmeier and her daughter Allie.
