High school students in Manatee County have a new opportunity to turn community service into scholarship money while helping improve local parks, waterways and natural areas.
The Manatee Education Foundation and the School District of Manatee County, through the Florida Department of Education and Florida Lottery, have received 40 scholarships valued at $500 each for students participating in the Student Service Challenge.
The program is open to high school students attending a public school or public charter school. To participate, students must complete 20 hours of eligible community service and submit an essay as part of the challenge.
Service hours must be completed between Sept. 7 and Oct. 5.
Students will have several opportunities throughout September to earn the required hours while participating in environmental projects across Manatee County. Activities include beach and kayak cleanups, native plantings, campground restoration projects and other community improvement efforts.
All volunteer hours completed for the Student Service Challenge must be documented through the regular volunteer service-hour process at the student’s registered school. Students should make sure their hours are properly recorded so they can be considered for the scholarship opportunity.
With 40 scholarships available, the program will provide a combined $20,000 in awards to participating students selected through the challenge.
Upcoming volunteer opportunities and registration information are available through Manatee County EcoEvents.
The Student Service Challenge gives local teenagers a chance to build their community service experience, contribute to projects throughout Manatee County and potentially earn $500 toward their future education.
