Ongoing Initiatives
Downtown Scholarship
An annual scholarship for a Spaulding High School senior who lives, works, or volunteers in downtown Rochester NH, funded by local donors.
Rochester Main Street awards the Downtown Scholarship to a Spaulding High School senior who has shown what it means to invest in their community, through volunteering, leadership, and pride in the place they call home. The rule of thumb is simple: the recipient lives, works, or volunteers downtown.
Who qualifies and how it works
Two criteria make a student eligible: being a Spaulding High School senior, and having a real connection to the downtown district. Applications are handled by the Spaulding Scholarship Committee, which knows its students best, while Rochester Main Street raises and manages the fund behind the award.
Our 2025 recipient was Maddie Hackett, committed to her community and pursuing a degree in early education. She is exactly who this scholarship exists for.
Who funds it
The scholarship is funded the same way everything we do is funded: by neighbors. Contribution tiers run $25, $50, $100, and $500, with premier sponsors at $1,000 and above. Investing in our local youth is an investment in the long-term vitality of our downtown and our city, and the same neighbors, businesses, and donors who keep downtown vibrant help send its next generation forward.
Know a student who gives back? Watch our Facebook page and newsletter for application details, or contact us to contribute or sponsor this year’s award.
Downtown Scholarship: your questions answered
Who is eligible for the Downtown Scholarship?
Spaulding High School seniors who live, work, or volunteer downtown. Applications are handled by the Spaulding Scholarship Committee, so students apply through their school rather than through Rochester Main Street directly.
How is the scholarship funded?
Entirely by local donors: contribution tiers of $25, $50, $100, and $500, plus premier sponsors at $1,000 and above. Every gift goes toward the award and keeps the program going next year.
Can my business sponsor the scholarship?
Yes. Premier sponsorship starts at $1,000 and is recognized alongside our other Contributing Partner benefits. Contact us and we'll set you up.
More ongoing initiatives
Bigfoot Scavenger Hunt
Painted Bigfoot cutouts hidden across downtown Rochester NH all summer in a free family scavenger hunt with raffle prizes at local shops.
Mini-Scavenger Hunts
Small free seasonal scavenger hunts, like rubber ducks hidden on benches, that give Rochester NH families a reason to explore downtown.
Central Square
Ongoing care and improvement of Central Square in Rochester NH: plantings, seasonal decor, the welcome sign, and upgrades to the stage.
