• Financial support offers new opportunities.money image by cherie from Fotolia.com
  
  According to a 2001 study, facilitated by the University of Connecticut Center on Aging, older African American women felt their life experiences made them wiser and now had time to better their own lives. Women who deferred their education to raise families or care for elderly parents can seek financial assistance in exploring new opportunities. Recognizing the contribution of mature African American women, many institutions offer support through grants to help fulfill their aspirations.
  
  

Soroptimist: Women Opportunity Awards

• Mature African American women may qualify for scholarships to further an education or career.high key african image by Frenk_Danielle Kaufmann from Fotolia.com
  
  Soroptimist, meaning "best for women," is an international volunteer agency supported by women for women in need. This agency offers many opportunity awards. According to its website; since Soroptimist's beginnings in 1972, more than 25 million dollars has enabled women to realize their dreams. Primary wage earners demonstrating financial need and enrolled in a vocational or academic institution may apply.
  
  

AARP Foundation: Women's Scholarship Program

• Grants in vocational training enable women to re-enter the work-place with greater skill.women facing the future image by feisty from Fotolia.com
  
  In 2007, the AARP Foundation launched The Women's Scholarship Progam to address the needs of women, aged 40 and over, who seek vocational skills and academic support. The AARP offers funding to assist with professional opportunities and development of educational tools. Eligible applicants include members of moderate- as well as low-income households.
  
  

Wynetta A. Frazier, Sister to Sister Scholarships

• African American women may begin to realize dreams through a grant.Women on The Beach image by ddsin from Fotolia.com
  
  As advocates for women and their families, National Hook-Up of Black Women offers financial assistance for women in need, according to the website. Through their annual "Wynetta A. Frazier Sister to Sister" Scholarship, college returnees over age 30 without support of a spouse, may apply.