The Rager Foundation has been a cornerstone for Delaware’s education and technological growth for several years. Starting with the mission to offer chances to students and future leaders, the foundation created an indelible legacy with its scholarship programs, technological efforts, and passion for the development of leadership.
One of the most common programs offered by the foundation is the Eagle Scout scholarship for students going to college. Being familiar with the cost implications of university tuition, the Rager Foundation awards funding to exceptional young men who have demonstrated excellent leadership, grades, and devotion to serving others.
The Eagle Scouts represent the pinnacle of leadership, determination, and hard work. It is years of hard work, serving projects, and self-improvement to reach the elite level. Jason Rager, founder and board member at The Rager Foundation, knows first-hand the importance of reaching the elite level. Rager, who received the Eagle Scout rank in January 2003, attributes the experience to the development of his leadership skills and entrepreneurial acumen.
“Obtaining my Eagle Scout rank was a life-altering experience,” Rager explains. “I learned the importance of responsibility, discipline, and determination. I know the cost of post-secondary education, and our scholarship program is designed to reduce that cost for Eagle Scouts who wish to pursue an education beyond high school.”
Since tuition fees and other charges are reaching $20,000 to $70,000 per year, they are beyond the reach of most students and parents to fulfill the cost of education in colleges. The Rager Foundation recognizes this challenge and aims to bridge the economic gap for the leaders of the future who have already demonstrated a willingness to work for the community and excel academically. It offers the award to Eagle Scouts who are looking to gain an undergraduate or graduate degree. They need to exhibit positive leadership and community service.
While education is at the forefront of the agenda for the Rager Foundation, the foundation also promotes technological development in the state of Delaware. The foundation also supports local organizations that bring technology and online information to underserved groups.
Through the support of computer literacy courses, STEM education, and community-based technology programs, the Rager Foundation aims to bridge the digital divide and make the tools and knowledge necessary to be successful in an increasingly technological arena available to everyone. The Rager Foundation collaborates with several organizations to build Delaware’s cultural, educational, and social profile.
It is primarily partnered with Hagley Museum and Library for the preservation of America’s industrial and technological heritage so that it can be enjoyed by later generations for its industrial heritage. It also supports Meals on Wheels Delaware, delivering hot, nutritious meals to more than 4,400 homebound elderly residents annually, alleviating food insecurity, and promoting the overall quality of life for aging residents. The Rager Foundation collaborates with Longwood Gardens, an internationally acclaimed botanical garden focused on conservation and education, to help it continue to preserve and grow its role in environmental stewardship. Vision Academy Charter School is another prominent partner, which is supported by the assistance of the foundation to improve the learning of its students through technology-based learning. It also supports the preservation of Delaware’s landmarks by extending its support to Nemours Estate so that the state’s notable architectural and historic heritage can be conserved for future generations.
In addition to these partnerships, The Rager Foundation expands its reach beyond technology and education to enhance the social and cultural life in Delaware and to assist programs that elevate people’s lives to the next level across the state.
Since its establishment, The Rager Foundation has worked hard to shape the future leaders of Delaware. With its interest in technology, education, and leadership, the foundation has touched many lives, allowing students to achieve their career and academic goals.
The foundation’s work is proof of the values that were instilled into Jason Rager, the founder, and the values that he accepted for a business career, leadership, and philanthropy. From Eagle Scout to business entrepreneur to philanthropist, his life is an inspiration to everyone who wishes to make the community better. The Rager Foundation looks to the future to grow its programs, offer more scholarships, and continue to bring its mission to educate and empower people with technology even more. With its investments in the leaders of the future and innovative projects, the foundation is ensuring its legacy will be seen for many years to come.