Community service scholarships are an ideal way for students to help pay for college. They are awarded to those who have demonstrated a commitment to helping others. And they can help offset the costs associated with higher education. In addition to the money, such scholarships can allow you to gain valuable experience. You’ll learn about different cultures, lifestyles, and social issues. And you’ll cultivate leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. These will serve you well both during college and in your future career. Scholarships for community service are a win-win for prospective college students. But they also benefit the community at large. In this post, we’ll introduce you to 16 excellent community service scholarships. We’ll also show you where to find similar opportunities and how to make them happen for you! Be sure to bookmark this page for reference!
16 Awesome Community Service Scholarships Students Can Apply for Now
| Scholarship | Amount | Who It’s For |
| Alliant Energy Scholarship | $1,000 | First-year undergraduate students |
| Equitable Excellence Scholarship | $2,500-$20,000 | First-year undergraduate students |
| Bonner Scholars Scholarship | Varies | Undergraduate and graduate students |
| DAV Scholarship | $5,000-$30,000 | Undergraduate students |
| Gloria Barron Scholarship | $10,000 | Youth under 18 years of age |
| Ashoori Law Scholarship | $1,000 | High school students and college students at all levels |
| Michael Rudometkin Scholarship | $500 | High school students and college students at all levels |
| LULAV National Scholarship Fund | $250-$1,000 | High school students and college students at all levels |
| GE-Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation Scholarship | $10,000-$40,000 | First-year undergraduate students |
| Horatio Alger Association | $2,500-$52,000 | High school seniors or juniors |
| Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Scholarships | $1,000-$20,000 | Undergraduate students |
| Tylenol Future Care Scholarship | $5,000-$10,000 | Graduate students |
| League Foundation Scholarships | $2,000-$3,000 | First-year undergraduate students |
| Live Out Loud Foundation | $5,000 | High school seniors |
| Davis Putter Scholarships | $7,500-$15,000 | High school students and college students at all levels |
| Stephen J. Brady Stop Hunger Scholarship | $7,500 | Students aged five to twenty-five |
What Is a Community Service Scholarship?
Scholarships can be awarded based on many factors. Most students are familiar with scholarships based on academic merit. But did you know there are scholarships for volunteering? To put it simply, these are scholarships that require community service. This type of scholarship rewards those who are dedicated to serving their communities. Have you spent a lot of time volunteering in your area? Then you just might qualify for one of these valuable volunteering scholarships.
The Real Value Behind Community Service Scholarships: Not Just About Money
Every student appreciates monetary support when tackling tuition costs. But don’t overlook other critical aspects of community service. You’ll be building valuable skills through your volunteering experiences. These include things like:
- Gaining critical thinking skills from problem-solving during unexpected situations.
- Developing leadership skills while coordinating events or leading teams of other volunteers.
- Refining your communication skills by interacting with different people involved in the project. This includes your fellow volunteers. But it also encompasses those who benefit from your services.
Think about these scholarships as an invisible thread that connects you to your community. You invest time helping others around you. And these community service projects provide valuable experiences along the way. For most people, these experiences bring deep personal satisfaction. But they can also show potential colleges you’re driven by more than just academic achievement. Believe it or not, this is something many institutions value greatly. In fact, for many foundations and donors, selfless service outweighs good grades.
Community Service Scholarships = Diverse Opportunities
You might wonder what kind of volunteer work counts toward earning such a scholarship. But there’s no definitive answer because the opportunities are so diverse. Nearly any type of selfless service qualifies. There are hundreds of ways people participate in community service activities. A few examples include:
Habitat for Humanity
Helping build homes for low-income families.
Local Food Banks
Sorting, packaging, and distributing food to those in need.
Animal Shelters
Caring for animals and assisting with adoption events.
Hospitals and Nursing Homes
Visiting with patients, reading to them, and assisting with activities.
Environmental Organizations
Helping with beach cleanups, tree plantings, and recycling programs.
Community Centers
Tutoring children, organizing after-school programs, and assisting with community events.
Political Campaigns
Volunteering to help with voter registration.
Museums and Art Galleries
Assisting with exhibits and fundraising events.
Sports Programs
Helping with coaching or assisting with youth sports teams.
International Service Trips
Traveling to other countries to help with humanitarian projects.
Non-Profit Organizations
Working with groups focusing on social issues such as poverty, education, and health.
Youth Organizations
Volunteering with youth organizations like Boys and Girls Clubs, Scouts, etc.
Libraries
Helping with book drives and literacy programs.
Disaster Relief Organizations
Providing aid to communities affected by natural disasters.
Homeless Shelters
Assisting with food, clothing, donations, and other services for homeless individuals and families.
Community Gardens
Helping to maintain community gardens and assisting with planting and harvesting crops.
Community Beautification Projects
Volunteering to help with graffiti removal and park cleanups.
Of course, this list is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to serving others. There are thousands of ways to make a difference in the world.
Scholarships that recognize community service are a fantastic deal. They’re not just about financial aid for your studies. Beyond the cash, they equip you with essential skills. These include critical thinking, leadership, and communication. Remember, there’s no standard blueprint for what kind of service counts.
Now that we’ve defined these scholarships, let’s take a look at some of the most prominent community awards available right now.
Top 16 Community Service Scholarships
1. Alliant Energy Scholarship
Alliant Energy Innovation Scholarship Program
Deadline: February 15th
Scholarship Amount: $1,000
Alliant Energy provides natural gas and electric services in Wisconsin and Iowa. This scholarship is for students residing in those states. The company awards 25 scholarships to those heading to a four-year college for the first time. Those planning to attend two-year programs at vocational schools are also eligible. However, they must be enrolled full-time. Recipients are selected based on several factors. These include:
- Volunteer work and leadership in community service activities
- Standardized test scores
- Grade point average
- 300-word essay submission
Students must be 24 or under to be eligible. They (or their families) must be current Alliant Energy customers. The application period begins December first of each year.
Community
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Scholarship America
Jeni Marks, Program Manager
(507) 931-8349
jmarks@scholarshipamerica.org
2. Equitable Excellence Scholarship
Equitable Excellence Scholarship Scholarship Program
Deadline: December 15th
Scholarship Amount: $500-$20,000
Equitable is a financial life insurance company based out of New York. Each year, the company awards thousands in scholarships through the Equitable Foundation. These community awards are for graduating high school seniors. The purpose is to recognize students who pursue their ambitions with courage, strength, and wisdom. They are designed to empower students to continue to have positive impacts within their own communities. The awards include:
- 100 $5,000 renewable scholarships to high school seniors. These are awarded each academic year for a total of $20,000 per recipient.
- 100 one-time $2,500 scholarships. These are for students to help with immediate costs like books, housing, and tuition.
- $500 grant to the high school of every scholarship recipient
The foundation begins accepting applications in the fall of each year. High school seniors will submit an essay that describes how they exhibit courage in pursuing what’s possible. And how they display strength in managing challenges and sharing wisdom with others. The opportunity is open for high school seniors planning to attend a two or four-year accredited institution.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
The scholarship is supported through strategic partnerships with:
These organizations can help assist students applying for the scholarship.
3. Bonner Scholars Program
Deadline: Varies
Scholarship Amount: Varies
The Bonner Scholars Program was created by philanthropists Bertram and Corella Bonner. This unique scholarship opportunity is for students enrolled at specific participating US universities. The scholarships are needs-based. All recipients commit at least 10 hours a week toward community service. They also participate in a summer community service internship experience.
Each school’s Bonner Program is unique. Amounts and deadlines vary. The specific community service projects differ as well. However, only students firmly committed to the program’s values should apply. The program seeks scholars passionate about social justice, diversity, and community-building. To learn more about each school’s program, visit the Foundation website.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Bonner Scholars Program
10 Mercer Street
Princeton, NJ 08540
(609) 924-6663
info@bonner.org
4. Disabled American Veterans Scholarships
DAV Youth Volunteer Scholarships
Deadline: Varies
Scholarship Amount: $5,000-$30,000
This next scholarship is sponsored by the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). It is only open to students 21 years of age or under. And it’s specifically for youth who have given at least 100 hours of community service through DAV or a DAV Auxiliary. Most students who apply for this scholarship are likely already hooked into their local DAV Chapter. But for those who aren’t, this is an excellent opportunity to begin volunteering to help veterans in your community.
Students may apply for themselves. An essay is voluntary but highly recommended. The essay should be on how volunteer work with veterans has impacted their lives. Additionally, anyone can nominate a youth volunteer who meets the criteria. You must register on the DAV site to apply for the scholarship or nominate a student.
The scholarships can be used at any accredited college or university. Community college students are also eligible. The community awards must be fully utilized within six years of receiving the funds.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Disabled American Veterans Youth Volunteer Scholarships
807 Maine Avenue SW
Washington, DC 20024
(202) 554-3501
volunteerawards@dav.org
5. Gloria Barron Scholarship
Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes
Deadline: April 15
Scholarship Amount: $10,000
This next scholarship is affiliated with the nonprofit organization Young Heroes Project. It is in honor of teacher Gloria Barron. Barron created a “touchable” nature museum at the Colorado School for the Blind. Her son, author T.H. Barron created the scholarship in her honor. This opportunity is unique in that recipients can be as young as eight years old. And it is limited to those under 18 years of age.
Each winner receives $10,000. It can be applied to their higher education or a service project of their choosing.
To be considered, the recipient must be working on an inspiring community service project. The project must be something they have developed themselves within the previous 12 months. The prize is not awarded to groups. It is awarded to youth seeking to make a difference with innovative projects outside the box.
Applications open in January and close in April. Students will need a Lead Reference and letters of recommendation.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Barbara Ann Richman, Executive Director
PO Box 18750
Boulder, CO 80308
admin@barronprize.org
6. Ashoori Law Scholarship
Ashoori Law Good Deeds Scholarship
Deadline: May 1
Scholarship Amount: $1,000
Ashoori Law is a legal firm devoted to helping immigrants secure a future in the US. The firm awards a $1,000 scholarship to one deserving student each year. The qualifications are simple. The recipient must be a kind-hearted college student. And they must have a history of unselfishly attending to the needs of others before themselves. The award is for undergraduate or graduate students enrolled in an accredited institution. Applicants must have:
- Performed an act of kindness for another person. This can be one simple act of a history of such behavior.
- A 3.0 GPA or higher.
- Submitted an essay for consideration
- Provided transcripts of their last completed semester of schooling
- Filled out the online Scholarship Application Form.
The essay should be between 750 to 1,000 words. Students should introduce themselves and explain their acts of kindness. They should also discuss the impact it has had on their lives.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Good Deeds Scholarship
21700 Oxnard St, Suite 730
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
818-741-1117
Michael@AshooriLaw.com
7. Michael Rudometkin Scholarship
Michael Rudometkin Memorial Scholarship
Deadline: October 24
Scholarship Amount: $500
The next scholarship was named after Michael Rudometkin. He was a man who helped his community and made time for those in need. Sadly, he was slain in a mass shooting in San Jose at 40 years old. His loved ones created a memorial scholarship in honor of his memory. They said, ” Whatever he touched, he made it nice.”
The scholarship in his name is to honor his life. And it’s specifically for students dedicated to making the world a better place, as he was. All students are welcome to apply for the scholarship. This includes high school seniors and college students at all levels. And it applies to those attending two or four-year programs.
There are two annual recipients of the scholarship. And each will receive a $500 award. To apply, students must write an essay demonstrating their own examples of altruism and selflessness.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Those who wish to apply for this award can do so through Bold.Org
contact@bold.org
8. League of United Latin American Citizens General Scholarships
LULAV National Scholarship Fund
Deadline: March 31
Scholarship Amount: $250-$1,000
Each year, LULAC awards several college scholarships. Some are based on academic achievement. However, there is also a general scholarship fund for deserving students. Good grades may serve as indicators. However, a strong emphasis is placed on the students’ integrity, motivation, and sincerity. Leadership activities and community involvement are also factored in. To be considered, students must be US citizens or legal permanent residents. Other requirements include:
- Complete, sign, and submit the LNSF application form. The form can be emailed or mailed to a participating LULAC Council.
- Students must be enrolled or have applied to a college or university as full-time students. Community colleges and vocational schools are permitted. If you are a graduate student, you may be enrolled part-time.
- You must provide high school or college transcripts and your cumulative GPA.
- A 500-word personal essay and interview will also be required.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
LNESC National Headquarters
1776 Eye Street NW, Suite 400
Washington, DC 20006
Scholarships@LNESC.org.
9. GE-Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation
GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship
Deadline: January 5th
Scholarship Amount: $10,000-$40,000
The GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship has awarded over $8.2 million in scholarships since its inception. This program is a partnership between General Electric and the Ronald Reagan Foundation. Around 20 $10,000 scholarships are given each year. They are renewable for up to four years for a total of $40,000. The program is open to graduating high school seniors in the US. Homeschooled students and those on armed forces bases are also eligible.
Applicants should show solid academic achievement. However, the program seeks students who display solid citizenship and leadership skills. This can be in their work, schools, and communities. The award is only open to full-time undergraduates. You must be planning to attend a four-year accredited US college or university.
All winners get to attend an all-expenses-paid exclusive Scholars Retreat in California. And they will receive support throughout their leadership journey while in college.
The foundation also offers free online courses in civic leadership and communication.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Scholarship America
1-844-402-0354
ge-reagan@scholarshipamerica.org
You might also like: How Can I Find Free Online Courses?
10. Horatio Alger Association Scholarships
Deadline: March 15th
Scholarship Amount: $2,500-$52,000
The Horatio Alger Association has awarded over $245 million in scholarships since 1984. These are needs-based awards for low-income youth. Academic achievement is considered. However, the AFP seeks students with specific qualities. They look for those who’ve shown integrity and determination in the face of adversity. There are several different types of scholarships:
State Scholarships
The state scholarships are available to high school juniors in every state. The student must be planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree. And they will need to demonstrate the need for financial aid. Applicants should be involved in extracurricular activities and community service.
Career & Technical Scholarships
These are school-specific awards for students enrolling in vocational programs. There are 500 scholarships available. They are volunteer scholarships are available for high school students pursuing an associate’s degree, certificate, or diploma.
Targeted Scholarships
These awards are for high school seniors enrolling at specific universities. There are several scholarships youth volunteer scholarship awards available. And each has its own eligibility criteria.
National Scholarships
There are 105 national scholarships awarded. Each is worth $25,000. These are for high school juniors who have faced and overcome significant life obstacles. Like all of the AFP scholarships, students should demonstrate involvement in community service.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
99 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 320
Alexandria, VA 22314
(844) 422-4200
scholarships@horatioalger.org
11. The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation Scholarships
Coca-Cola Community Leadership Scholarships
Deadline: October 2nd
Scholarship Amount: $1,000-$20,000
The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation awards several community service awards for high school students each year. Some are for seniors heading to four-year colleges and universities. Others are for community college students or those planning to attend vocational schools. Students are recognized for their commitment to impact their schools and communities positively. And they are chosen based on their capacity to serve and lead.
Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship
There are 150 scholars selected each year for this $20,000 scholarship.
The Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Scholarship
This program is for vocational and community college students. There are 200 recipients of these scholarships for volunteerism. Amounts range from $1,250-$1500.
Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship
This program is for Phi Theta Kappa members. There are 200 $1,000 scholarships available for students enrolled in community colleges.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation
PO Box 442
Atlanta, GA 30301
12. Tylenol Future Care Scholarship
Tylenol Scholarships for Healthcare Students
Deadline: August 1st
Scholarship Amount: $5,000-$10,000
The next scholarship opportunity is for graduate students or college students in their senior year. You must be planning to enroll in a medical, nursing, or pharmacy program. Students must have at least one to two years left to complete their degree. They must also be planning to attend full-time. There are 35 awards given per academic year. And they are non-renewable.
To be eligible, students need to complete the online application. They will need to submit their college GPA and other supporting documents. Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to community involvement and volunteer service.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
(888) 246-9660
13. League Foundation Scholarships for The LGBTQ+ Community
League Foundation Scholarships
Deadline: April
Scholarship Amount: $2,000-$3,000
The League Foundation offers several annual scholarships. To be eligible, students must be self-identified members of the LGBTQ+ Community. These awards are for graduating high school students. You must be a US citizen or legal immigrant. Students should be involved in community service. Preference is given to volunteer activities directly related to LGBTQ+ communities.
Applicants must show proof of acceptance to an accredited college or university. Students attending community colleges or vocational schools may also apply. High school transcripts and letters of recommendation are needed. Additionally, students must create a detailed list of their community involvement. Two personal essays are also required.
Scholarship Contact Information
info@LEAGUEFoundation.org
14. Live Out Loud Foundation Scholarship
Live Out Loud Young Trailblazers Scholarship
Deadline: February 27th
Scholarship Amount: $5,000
The Live Out Loud Foundation also offers scholarships to LGBTQ+ students. Three high-school seniors from the tri-state area are chosen. This includes those in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. The scholarships are awarded based on financial need. However, applicants must also demonstrate leadership skills and involvement in community service.
The awards can be used to pay for education expenses at an accredited institution. This includes universities, colleges, and vocational or technical schools. Applicants and awardees must join the Live Out Loud Scholarship network. Students will need to complete the online application and submit the required essay. Two letters of recommendation are also required. Additionally, finalists will participate in a virtual interview.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
25 Broadway, 12th Fl.
New York, NY 10004
646-653-4312
info@liveoutloud.org
15. Davis Putter Scholarship Fund
Davis Putter Social Justice Scholarships
Deadline: April 1st
Scholarship Amount: $7,500-$15,000
The Davis Putter Scholarship Fund was established in 1961. And it has provided over $4.7 million in scholarship funding since then. This scholarship is specifically for students working for peace and justice.
To qualify, students need to be actively engaged in volunteerism within their communities. Examples include movements for liberation and economic justice. It also includes doing work that is in opposition to systemic harm and oppression.
Applicants must be undergraduate or graduate students currently enrolled at a US institution. You will also need to demonstrate financial need. Students will need a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Post Office Box 7307
New York, NY 10116-7307
davisputter@davisputter.org
16. Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation Scholarship
Stephen J. Brady Stop Hunger Scholarship
Deadline: December 5th
Scholarship Amount: $7,500
This unique scholarship opportunity is open to students from age five to 25. Winners receive a $7,500 scholarship toward their education. Plus, they also receive a grant for $5,000. They can use the grant to help fund a hunger-related charity of their choice.
Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited institution. This includes kindergartens through graduate schools. They must have demonstrated a significant commitment to unpaid community services. Preference is given to students who have performed volunteer work with hunger-related organizations. Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents.
A $7,500 contribution will be made to a qualified 529 Plan if the student is not yet in college. This will need to be established by the student’s guardians for their benefit.
Community Service Scholarships Contact Information
Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation
9801 Washingtonian Blvd.
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
1-844-948-6437
StopHunger@SodexoFoundation.org
Where Can I Find More Community Service Scholarships?
We’ve provided a list of current community service scholarships to get you started. But there are hundreds of other opportunities available. Scholarships and amounts can vary widely from year to year. For example, those that may have existed a few years ago may no longer be active. So, doing your own research is also critical for finding the best scholarships for you right now. But how and where do you find these golden opportunities? We’re going to help you out with this. Let’s explore where to find the best community service scholarships.
Your High School Guidance Office
Checking with your school’s career or guidance counseling offices should be your first stop. Your teachers and counselors will likely have the most current information to help you get started. This is one of the many services available to students. So don’t hesitate to check in and find out about community service scholarships.
While you’re at it, you can check out other scholarship opportunities too.
Your school’s guidance office may also be able to help you in another way too. They may have information on specific volunteer opportunities that can lead to scholarships.
Your Local Community
Another place to look is right around the corner, literally. Your local community organizations often provide scholarships for dedicated volunteers. These may be from clubs like Rotary International, hospitals, or even your city council.
Check with local religious organizations, charities, and other groups near you. You can also inquire with your volunteer organization. Ask if they provide scholarship opportunities. If not, they might know who does. Don’t underestimate the power of networking. If you don’t ask, you won’t know what’s available. In general, most people will be eager to help you find scholarships to pay for college. So, speak up!
Colleges and Universities
Schools love students who help their communities. Volunteering demonstrates character and leadership skills. Do you have a particular college in mind? If so, this is also an excellent resource for looking into community service scholarships. Contact the college or university financial aid office to find out what scholarships are available. Many colleges offer awards specifically for those engaged in community service.
National Organizations
Larger national organizations often provide generous scholarship opportunities as well. You can do a general search on their foundation websites to find more information. A few examples of such nonprofits include:
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
- Kiwanis
- Habitat for Humanity
- AmeriCorps
- Girl Scouts of America
- Knights of Columbus
Scholarship Search Engines
The internet can provide you with a wealth of scholarship information. It’s home to numerous dependable scholarship search engines. On these sites, you can match your unique interests and experiences with various scholarships. Top picks include College Board, Fastweb, and Scholarship America.
At Top Ten Online Colleges, we also have some excellent resources for you. From scholarships for single parents to those for adult learners, we’ve got you covered. So be sure to check our extensive list of scholarships.
How Do I Apply for Community Service Scholarships?
Are you interested in receiving financial aid for your volunteer work? Then, applying for these types of scholarships is the way to go. But how do you begin? And how do your win community service scholarships? Let’s break it down.
Gather Your Volunteer Experiences
First off, take stock of all your volunteer experiences. Think of everything you’ve done to help out in your community. Have you planted trees or done shoreline cleanup with an environmental group? Do you help tutor other students at your school? Do you belong to a church group that helps shop for the elderly? Every hour counts towards showcasing your dedication.
This isn’t just about showing up and clocking hours, though. The impact you’ve made during these experiences will also be important when writing your application essay.
Pen Down Your Essay
Your essay is where you can shine as an individual. This is where you let scholarship committees know why they should pick you over others. It needs to reflect who you are beyond grades and test scores. Allow them to get to know who you are as a person. Talk about your experiences and the real changes you’ve made on the ground level.
You’ll want to discuss specific projects or events that have left lasting impressions. These may be impressions on yourself and those who were helped by your work. Try to weave personal anecdotes along with the broader impacts of community service work you’ve done.
You might also want to check out 5 Tips for Obtaining Scholarships to Online Colleges.
Select The Appropriate Scholarships To Apply For
All scholarships have different requirements. You’ll want to create a list of those that align best with your volunteer experiences. The more closely matched the scholarship’s focus is with your service, the better your chances of being awarded. Of course, you can apply for as many scholarships as you like. However, it’s worth taking time out to research thoroughly before applying.
Gather References And Submit Your Application
You’ve written an essay and found one or more fitting scholarships. Now, you need some people who can vouch for all the good work you’ve done. Ask for references from organization leaders. You can also ask individuals who directly benefited from your volunteering efforts. These letters of reference will make strong additions to your application package.
Once everything is compiled together and double-checked for accuracy, submit. Make sure this step happens well before the deadline. Most organizations won’t accept late submissions or applications with missing information.
Do you want to turn your passion for volunteering into college funding? It all starts with gathering all your experiences. Make sure to detail the impact of these in an engaging essay. Your essay should showcase you as a changemaker, not just a grade-getter. Carefully select scholarships that align well with your service profile. Then, back it up with solid references and submit your materials ahead of the deadlines.
When Should I Start Volunteering to Earn Community Service Scholarships?
The short answer is the sooner, the better. Many such scholarships require at least one year of volunteer experience. Volunteering as quickly as possible can increase your chances of winning a scholarship. But you will also be helping to make meaningful contributions to the community.
If you’re still in high school and wondering when to begin,
RIGHT NOW IS THE TIME!
Early involvement can shape your passion for service. It will provide valuable skills that will benefit both college applications and future careers.
Your High School Years are Key
Bear in mind that many community service scholarship committees look favorably upon long-term commitment. It’s hard to imagine things “long term” when you’re in high school. So, for this post, we’re talking about long-term values of months to a few years.
The sooner you begin your volunteer work, the better your chances are of earning one of these awards. This shows consistency and dedication. These two qualities are valued by colleges as well as employers. By starting early in high school (or even before that), you can amass a few years of service before requesting those scholarships. That’s the ideal way to go about it.
What About High School Seniors?
If you’re worried it might be too late for you, don’t be. High school seniors can still get involved. There are always opportunities out there waiting just around the corner. High school seniors should jump into volunteering with gusto. And they should put as much time into community service scholarships volunteering as possible.
Pick Something You Love Doing
While in high school, choose an activity that aligns with what interests or excites you. This increases the likelihood you will stay with it. Don’t pick something just because you think it will improve your scholarship chances. Choose something meaningful to you. This way, if you don’t earn an award, that’s okay. You’ll still feel happy with yourself and connected to your good work.
Make the Most of Your Time
It’s not just about how many hours you’ve put into volunteering. Scholarship committees want to know what lessons you’ve picked up along the way. You’ll need to express how these experiences have shaped you personally. And you should be prepared to explain the impact you’ve made in your community.
Start volunteering as early in high school as possible. This will increase your chances of winning community service scholarships. But it will also enrich your life beyond measure. Remember, it’s more than just clocking hours. Pick a cause you love and show real dedication. Remember, scholarship committees value your character and the lessons you’ve learned.
Closing Thoughts
Community service scholarships offer a fantastic opportunity for high school and college students. They provide a way to earn financial aid while positively impacting your community. Donating your time and energy to a cause you believe in is not just about the money, though. You’ll be making a real difference in the lives of others. There are countless ways to get involved. Once you do, you’ll develop a lifelong appreciation and commitment to volunteering.
