We’re thrilled to share some big news—CASA of the Eastern Panhandle is officially launching its Educational Support Scholarship Program, created to empower youth in foster care or the juvenile justice system to pursue their goals with confidence, support, and access to opportunity.
Thanks to generous donors and our amazing community, we raised more than $54,000 to kick-start this program—and we’re just getting started!
More Than Tuition
This isn’t your typical scholarship program. We know that success looks different for every young person, so our scholarship can be used for all kinds of educational support—not just college tuition. We’re talking:
- Summer camps and private classes
- Laptops, tools, or transportation
- GED prep, tutoring, and behavioral health support
- Extracurriculars like STEM clubs or beauty school
- Certification and apprenticeship programs
In short, if it helps a youth build skills and confidence, we want to help make it happen.
Why It Matters
Youth in care often miss out on enrichment opportunities due to placement changes, financial limitations, or lack of adult advocacy. This program is our way of helping to fill that gap, ensuring young people have what they need to grow, dream, and plan for a bright future—whatever that future looks like for them.
How It Works
We’ll be offering scholarships twice a year, with opportunities to apply in the spring and fall. Each round will support up to two youth, and applicants will be asked to complete a short application and provide a reference from someone who knows them—like a CASA advocate, mentor, counselor, or teacher.
After receiving support, youth will be encouraged to reflect on their experience by submitting a short paper, video, or creative project. Their voices will help us continue shaping a program that truly works for them.
Who’s Eligible?
Youth currently—or formerly—involved in the child welfare or juvenile justice systems are eligible. They should be enrolled in school, have a 2.0 GPA or higher, and be ready to take the next step in their education journey.
Help Us Spread the Word!
Outreach is already underway through CASA mentors and advocates, but we’re also connecting with caregivers, case managers, teachers, and support organizations to reach as many youth as possible.
Our Youth Programs Manager, Cari Lefeber, will be including scholarship information in Pre-Service trainings, and she’ll be hosting lunch & learn sessions to keep everyone informed about how to refer and support applicants.
This scholarship program is about more than funding—it’s about believing in the potential of every young person we serve. With your continued support, we’re giving youth the chance to chase their dreams and build their futures, one step at a time.
To learn more or refer a youth, contact Cari Lefeber at cari@4e3e7b3687.nxcli.io.
Let’s open doors together!
