Since 1998, the Rotary Club of Clearwater has offered an unusual scholarship program for selected seniors at Clearwater High School. Each year, two seniors receive $1,000 scholarships for continuing post-secondary education costs. Individual Rotarians have also elected to "join" this scholarship program and offer additional scholarships. In 2002, for example, three such scholarships will be offered.

Rather than select youth based solely upon need or academic excellence, the scholarships are granted to youth who have demonstrated exceptional character and resilience-who have succeeded "despite the odds" in difficult home, health or other circumstances. One historical winner had been in nearly 40 different schools in an unstable and itinerant family prior to moving in with a stable friend's family-and finishing high school with high honors. Another cited childhood friends who were all currently involved with drugs, gangs and teenage pregnancy, while she was on her way to Florida State University.

Many students who have won these scholarships are the first members of their families to attend college. With the help of Rotary, they can achieve their ambitions. This scholarship program exemplifies Rotary ideals, and is a proud Rotary contribution to our community.

Rev: 4/26/02