Times may be tough, but the weak economy hasn't dampened our local generosity. The commitment to education, achievement and community service remains strong.

This is the time of year when nonprofit organizations and businesses award thousands of dollars to graduating high school seniors to help pay for their future education. With the cost of college rising and the impecunious state turning a deaf ear toward the financial needs of freshmen, this comes as welcome news indeed.

From large organizations such as Rotary Club, the Simi Valley Elks and Kiwanis, Simi Valley Education Foundation and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation, to the smaller ones like the American Association of University Women, altruistic groups are reaching into their pockets to help our students chase their dreams.

Even real estate organizations—which are surely feeling the effects of the weak housing market—are offering scholarships at the same level as last year.

Deserving seniors need our support. In today's tough academic climate, an aspiring college freshman must not only perform well in the classroom, but also prove well-rounded in arts, athletics and community service. In addition to their classroom work and extracurricular activities, some ambitious students even hold jobs.

Each May their achievements are recognized by the community.

Making these scholarships possible are the volunteers who work tirelessly for their charities. They should be commended for their support. Businesses that donate funds for the scholarships help renew the public's faith in the corporate world. They know that the future of our country depends on today's high-achieving students, those who are headed to college in search of a better tomorrow.

Stay tuned for future editions of the Acorn to see coverage of all our local high school graduation ceremonies and profiles of Simi's best and brightest students.