How can I find scholarships for community service?

As someone who's really invested a lot of time in community service throughout high school, I'm hoping to find scholarships that reward this involvement. How do community service scholarships work, and what is typically required for these applications?

I’ve volunteered with a couple of local organizations, and I’m curious if those experiences should be highlighted in a particular way. Would love to hear any suggestions or stories from people who have successfully applied for and received these types of scholarships.

From your dedication to local organizations, it seems like you've developed quite a passion for community service. This can be hugely beneficial in your scholarship search, as there are numerous grants and awards specifically catered towards service-oriented students. Let's break down how you might find and apply to them.

There are a variety of community service scholarships that operate somewhat differently, but most weigh heavily on your experiences, commitment levels, and impacts of your service efforts. You'll typically have to submit an application that outlines your service involvement, and often you'll need to write an essay or provide a sample that speaks to your efforts and their effects on your community. It's also quite common for these scholarships to require a recommendation letter, typically from a supervisor or staff member at your local organization, who can speak to your dedication and impact.

One popular community service scholarship is the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, which recognizes middle and high school students for outstanding volunteer service. Also, the Bonner Scholars Program provides a need-based community service scholarship to many colleges across the country, and the DoSomething.org offers several opportunities for scholarships to those who participate in their campaigns.

When drafting your applications and essays, it's vital to be specific in describing the nature of your work and its effects on your community. Use quantifiable data where possible ("I organized a charity run that raised $5,000 for local hospitals") or highlight particular experiences that showcase your commitment and influence. Focus attention on some of the key skills or lessons you've acquired from your service, and speak to how these have shaped your perspective.

Remember, however, quality over quantity matters. Rather than just listing your organizations or activities, it's beneficial to choose a couple of significant experiences or organizations that you have dedicated substantial time to for a deeper reflection.

Finally, reach out to your guidance counselor! They can be a beneficial resource in your scholarship hunt and can often point you towards opportunities you may not have considered. Happy scholarship hunting!