The Times - Serving Waitsburg, Dayton and the Touchet Valley

WALLA WALLA – Sports aren’t the only way youth can earn a varsity letter. Three years ago, United Way of Walla Walla County began a program that allows youth to earn a varsity letter through community service, and now they have added a scholarship opportunity.

This year, the United Way’s Board of Directors set aside $9,000 for scholarships and staff are seeking a match from a generous individual or grant. Currently, the only school that offers the community service scholarships is Wa-Hi, but all students in both Walla Walla and Columbia County who achieve 145 verifiable volunteer hours are eligible for the scholarship.

Last year, four students earned the letter which is intended to acknowledge youth with a desire to give back. It also helps set them apart from other students on college applications and helps put them in the running for scholarship opportunities.

Students can begin earning their letters their freshman year and are required to complete 145 hours of community service in a 12-month period (April 15-April 15). Applications are available Feb. 1 and the deadline for submission is April 15.

For more information about this unique scholarship opportunity visit info@unitedwayww.org or cal (509) 529-1183.