The Wisconsin Illinois Senior Housing Inc (WISH) Rising Stars scholarship started in 2020 and was inspired by the many high school students who came to work at WISH nursing homes during the height of the pandemic because of their desire to help others. These dedicated students stood (and in many cases continue to stand) side-by-side with their facility teams, offering reassurance, comfort, friendship, and care to residents during what's often been a lonely time - especially when visits with family and friends were restricted. WISH sees this as a way to give back to the community who stepped up to care for others.
Although not required, students with an interest in health care, long term care or post-acute care or other areas of healthcare are encouraged to apply. The scholarship is open to all Wisconsin and Illinois high school students, and all WISH employees.