Who Can Apply:
- Edward Zapatka, Jr. was a beloved friend who grew up in a foster home and sadly passed away in 2021. He attended a small college in Ohio, was a singer and acted in many plays there. He was also the Homecoming King in his senior year and was beloved by the entire student body.
- Foster kids often face many challenges in life, with childhood traumas and a lack of a support system having long-term effects even in adulthood. Many children age out of foster care after high school, which can lead to them having a hard time financially and emotionally. With no encouragement or assistance, it can be difficult to pursue higher education and build the skills and qualifications necessary to create a better future.
- This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Edward Zapatka, Jr. by encouraging students with foster experience to go after their goals.
- Any high school senior or undergraduate student who has a background in foster care may apply for this scholarship opportunity.
Submission: To apply, tell us a personal story from your time in foster care, whether this story is happy, funny, sad, or otherwise!
Deadline: July 19, 2025
Amount: $1,000
Learn More: https://bold.org/scholarships/edward-zapatka-jr-memorial-scholarship/