LEGACY SCHOLARSHIPs

The Legacy Scholarship is a $1000 Scholarship given to students annually in western Orange County. The Legacy Scholarship is based on personal character with an emphasis on volunteerism, integrity, leadership and a passion to “Leave a Legacy.” Our scholarship is unique because we aren’t looking for the best academics, athletes, or artists. We are looking for those students who believe in making a difference for others. Students who reach out to others around the world and in our community. We have awarded over 35 Legacy Scholarships since our beginning in 2019. Our winners have gone on to attend Ivy League Universities, State Universities, Private Universities, and local trade schools. Our winners have been outstanding athletes, academics, and artists. But more importantly, our winners have fed the hungry, clothed the poor, rescued the animals, and loved their neighbor. 

Legacy Scholarship Eligibility Criteria:

● Horizon, Ocoee, Windermere, or West Orange High School Senior (Dual Enrolled or Full Time)

● Pursuing Vocational/Technical/Trade School, 2 year College Degree, or 4 year College Degree

● Good Character Reference with no discipline problems 

● Participated as a Mentor or Leader during 4-years of high school 

● Write an essay of at least 500 words on the topic: What Leaving a Legacy Means to Me 

● Completed 75 hours or more Volunteer Service hours during High School

Dr. Cheri Richardson Scholarship

Our named scholarship honoring the late Dr. Cheri Richardson is awarded each year to our highest scoring applicant across all schools and criteria.

McCoy Federal Credit Union Scholarship

McCoy FCU sponsored scholarship is given to an applicant demonstrating profound “Care” in their volunteerism project(s). 

Other scholarships may be given in conjunction with a Business Partner to students that meet all of the eligibility requirements for the Legacy Scholarship with some additional criteria for such fields as healthcare, finance, and entrepreneurship. 

Teacher Nominated Scholarships

Teacher Nominated Scholarships are given annually in the amount of $250. High School teachers nominate senior students by writing a letter to the LEFE board about the impact the student has had on others. The teachers may have had the student in their classroom, team, or club anytime from 9th to 12th grade. Oftentimes, students have no idea that they have been nominated for this scholarship.

Scholarship Night

Each Spring, we host a Scholarship Night to award our scholarships. It is exciting for the LEFE Board and Scholarship Committee to get to meet the winners. We also recognize our business partners and volunteers who have helped make our scholarship programs and events successful. It is an inspiring night to meet and mingle with so many young people (and a few adults) who believe as we do that serving others in western Orange County indeed Leaves a Legacy!