New Scholarship Program for Lexington Students Affected by Gun Violence

News Summary

A new scholarship program has been launched in Lexington, Kentucky, by the community group One Lexington to support students aged 18-24 affected by gun violence. Offering up to $10,000, this initiative is aimed at helping them pursue educational opportunities. It focuses particularly on former students of Fayette County Public Schools, especially those who have faced challenges due to gun violence. The program not only provides financial aid but also emphasizes trauma-informed care and career coaching to ensure successful futures for these young individuals.

Exciting News for Lexington Students Affected by Gun Violence

Lexington, a vibrant city in Kentucky, has some heartwarming news for its young residents grappling with the impacts of gun violence. One Lexington, a community group dedicated to preventing gun violence, has rolled out a scholarship program that is sure to bring smiles to many faces. This **scholarship** can offer up to $10,000 to help students turn their academic dreams into reality.

Who Can Apply?

This scholarship is specifically geared towards students aged 18-24 who are residents of Fayette County and have been touched by the unfortunate realities of gun violence. To be eligible, applicants must be former or current students of Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS). Not only does this include those directly affected by gun violence, but also those with a biological parent that is currently incarcerated.

What Makes This Scholarship Special?

Designed to aid students seeking education in skills or trade fields, this scholarship is a one-time award based on the applicant’s academic achievements and success. It’s especially encouraging for those who have faced challenges, allowing them to envision a brighter future beyond the circumstances surrounding gun violence.

How to Get Started

For those interested in applying, it’s important to note that applicants should not be currently employed or active in any post-secondary education program. The scholarship can be a real lifeline for young adults looking to start their careers and break the cycle of violence in the community.

All details, including the application process, can be accessed online. Interested students can find more information and the application link through the readily available resources. They can also reach out for assistance via email or phone.

Giving Back During the Holidays

30 children affected by gun violence. This was all part of her nonprofit initiative, meanwhile driven by the memory of her son, who tragically lost his life to gun violence in 2021.

Hairston’s event, themed “It Does Matter — put the Guns Down,” aimed to offer joy and support to families going through tough times. Her unwavering dedication shone through during the third annual Christmas giveback event, ensuring that the children felt loved and treasured during the festive season.

Support from the Government

Moreover, Lexington isn’t just sitting idle when it comes to addressing education and career opportunities for its youth. A generous donation of $500,000 was recently announced, coming from the office of Governor Andy Beshear. This funding is part of the *Everybody Counts grant* and aims to strengthen Fayette County’s educational initiatives, particularly for seniors ready to take the next step in their careers.

This donation will significantly expand the Building Bridges to Opportunity program, which is committed to creating robust career pathways for the young residents of Fayette County. Excitingly, the *Be the Change scholarship program* is being broadened to encompass all high schools in the county, further enhancing the financial support available to students.

Pathways to a Brighter Future

To qualify for these scholarships, students must actively engage in career coaching and express their intent to pursue a degree in criminal justice or a related field. This initiative not only focuses on academic success but also prioritizes offering trauma-informed care services to support victims of gun violence and their families as they navigate their healing journey.

As Lexington continues to forge ahead in addressing the challenges of gun violence, community initiatives like these shine a hopeful light on the future for many young adults. By providing the tools necessary for success, the city is fostering resilience and offering promising pathways towards brighter tomorrows.