It pays to start early.
Imagine Early transforms everyday schoolwork and extra-curricular activities into opportunities — helping kids from birth through 12th grade imagine their future early and earn up to $3,000 in Imagine Early scholarships for their education beyond high school.
100% free
No cost and no income limit to join.
Birth–12th grade
Every child at a participating school.
Community-run
Funded locally — not a government program.
What is imagine early?
A Launchpad Toward a Bright Future, One Assignment at a Time
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Transform the way your child views education now, and how your family prepares for the future. Students from 4th through 12th grade earn Imagine Early scholarships by completing their regular schoolwork and getting involved in extra-curricular activities, building a fund of up to $3,000 for future opportunities. Every completed assignment serves to support opportunities after high school.
A Battering Ram to Financial Barriers
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For too long, limited opportunities, lack of financial knowledge, and the overwhelming question of “Can we afford this?” have blocked students from reaching their potential. Imagine Early was created to address these barriers and make the dream of education beyond high school a possibility for every student.
A Community-Wide Movement
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Imagine Early is more than a financial aid tool; it’s a catalyst for change in our community. It helps students learn and think about the future so they are prepared to pursue their educational journey. The program is backed by businesses, organizations, and citizens who are united in the cause of helping our children succeed in life.
A simple guide
to imagining early
Four steps, no extra workload for your family.
We walk alongside you the whole way.
01. Enroll your child (100% free)
We work alongside you to welcome your family into the program. It’s a straightforward process designed to bring families into Imagine Early. No Social Security number required to start.
02. Earn as they learn
Once enrolled, students in grades 4–12 begin earning scholarship money by completing their schoolwork at 70% proficiency and getting involved in extra-curricular activities. From math facts to reading to career projects, every effort counts.
03. Track progress
We keep you updated every step of the way. You can always see how your child’s efforts are translating into Imagine Early scholarship dollars.
04. Graduate and use the funds
Upon graduating from high school, your child can put their accumulated scholarships toward college, a trade school, an apprenticeship, or vocational training — whatever path they choose.
Clear answers to the questions we hear most.
Every family in Wabash County is welcome — no exceptions. Here’s the truth behind the most common worries.
Is this a government program?
No. Imagine Early is run by the Community Foundation of Wabash County and local partners. Enrolling requires no Social Security number and no government reporting of any kind.
My child isn't going to college
That’s perfectly fine. The fund works for trade school, apprenticeships, certifications and the military — any training after high school.
Where does the money come from?
From a national private foundation and more than 220 local businesses, organizations and citizens who invest in our kids.
Community EMBRACE
Students
More than 60% of Wabash County 4th-12th grade students have enrolled in Imagine Early. The Community Foundation maintains more than 3,000 Imagine Early scholarship funds for these students.
Schools
Manchester Community Schools, Wabash City Schools, MSD of Wabash County, and St. Bernard’s Catholic School are actively engaged in enrolling students and integrating Imagine Early into school life.
Nationwide
A leading children's savings account (CSA) program, studied by the University of Michigan and funded by a national private foundation and more than 150 local businesses, organizations, and citizens.
It pays to learn early!
Together, we’ll make education more than just a routine. Research shows that students participating in Imagine Early achieve higher grades and show improved social emotional health. Enroll your child today, and open doors to a future of opportunities.
© 2026 Imagine Early.