The Leon Levine Foundation has awarded a $25,000 grant to ANSWER Scholarship to help send mothers in Mecklenburg and surrounding counties to college.

Established in 2006, ANSWER provides financial assistance to mothers in pursuit of a four-year college degree in the field of their choice, or an associate degree in nursing. Recipients must be raising school-age children, show demonstrated need for the scholarship, and be earning their first college degree.

A portion of the Foundation's grant was in the form of a dollar-for-dollar match, up to $10,000 raised from new, increased and lapsed donations. Thanks to 50 corporate and individual supporters, the goal was reached.

Funds are being used in part to support the studies of Annette McMullen, one of ANSWER's two Levine Scholars. McMullen is a senior at Winthrop University and a candidate for a B.S. in biology with a concentration in biomedical research. The mother of one son, McMullen plans a career in research. "I hope to help find cures to diseases that, as of now, are incurable," she says. She is also passionate about involving girls in science.

Founder Susan Andersen created ANSWER as a way to strengthen local families. Children who see their moms work hard in college classes are often motivated to do better in school and want to attend college, too.

"By supporting mothers who attend college, we increase the family's earning potential over the long-term," Andersen says. "We are so grateful to the Levine Foundation for renewing their support of ANSWER and seeing the potential of this project to help many more women in the region."

ANSWER recipients have an 87% graduation rate, compared to 39% for other non-traditional college students. To find out more or make a tax-deductible gift to ANSWER, visit www.answerscholarship.org.

About The Leon Levine Foundation

The Leon Levine Foundation's mission is to improve the human condition by creating permanent, measurable and life-changing impact. The organization invests in nonprofits with a successful track record and a focus on sustainability in the areas of healthcare, education, Jewish values and/or human services.

Started by Leon Levine, the creator of the first Family Dollar Store in Charlotte, N.C., in 1980, the foundation has grown into one of the country's largest and most impactful philanthropic organizations. For more information, please visit www.leonlevinefoundation.org