C. Valentine Bates Memorial HOPE Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Florida State Elks Association, Inc.
Mission The Florida State Elks Association C. Valentine Bates Memorial HOPE Scholarship exists to offer financial assistance to Florida high school seniors whose economic circumstances would otherwise prevent them from reaching their educational objectives.
Eligibility To apply for an award from the C. Valentine Bates Memorial HOPE Scholarship Fund, applicants must meet all of the following:
- Be a member of the graduating class of a high school or its equivalent.
- If graduating mid-year (December semester), submit an application during that same academic year prior to graduation.
- Be a resident of Florida.
- Be a United States citizen.
Applicants Sought This scholarship specifically targets students whose unweighted GPA falls between 2.30 and 3.59 inclusive. Students with an unweighted GPA above 3.59 are not eligible. Ideal candidates have shown leadership through involvement in school organizations, community service, and good citizenship. Special consideration is given to applicants who have taken on extra responsibilities—such as working during high school—to help support siblings or other family members.
Competition Awards are offered without gender distinction; male and female applicants compete for the same scholarships on equal terms.
Awards and Funding Each year the Florida State Elks Association (FSEA) awards scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $20,000 per recipient. These funds come from grants provided by the Elks National Foundation and from fundraising by Florida Elks Charities. Total scholarship funding is anticipated to be approximately $106,000 annually. The total amount distributed in any given year will not exceed the funds received for that year.
Go to Scholarship Application