DENVER, March 16, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Indian College Fund (the Fund) was awarded $50,000 from the Allstate Foundation to provide nine scholarships at $5,000 each for American Indians studying business at a tribal college.

Over the last decade, the Allstate Foundation has supported a number of initiatives at the Fund, including scholarships; cultural exchange and leadership development programs; and the American Indian College Fund's annual Flame of Hope Gala, which raises money for Native students and increases awareness about the nation's tribal colleges and universities.

"Allstate's support over the years has had a major impact on our students, their families, and their communities," said Richard B. Williams, President and CEO of the American Indian College Fund. "We are honored that they continue to recognize the importance of Native education and how it helps to reduce poverty while creating hope in Indian Country."

About The Allstate Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE ALL). Through partnerships with nonprofit organizations across the country, The Allstate Foundation brings the relationships, reputation and resources of Allstate to support innovative and lasting solutions that enhance people's well-being and prosperity. With a focus on safe teen driving and building financial independence for domestic violence survivors, The Allstate Foundation also promotes safe and vital communities; tolerance, inclusion, and diversity; and economic empowerment.

About the American Indian College Fund

With its credo "Educating the Mind and Spirit," the American Indian College Fund is the nation's largest private provider of scholarships for American Indian students, providing an average of 6,000 scholarships annually for students seeking to better their lives and communities through education and support to the nation's 34 accredited tribal colleges and universities.

SOURCE American Indian College Fund