The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation announced at its annual scholarship ceremony May 9 that they awarded scholarships to 76 students in their afterschool youth development programs. This community-funded initiative aimed at its youth in grades five to 12 has inspired students to attend higher education for the past 28 years. These awards recognize the youth based on academic excellence, community service, leadership, kindness and extra effort on and off the tennis court.
With a record $117,000 in scholarships awarded this year, the MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation is providing the opportunity for its youth to attend post-secondary education after high school. The majority of youth involved with the foundation come from low-income backgrounds with a median household income of less than $30,000. By engaging in the foundation, students are more likely to graduate on time and be promoted to the next grade.
“I believe the power of education can break many hardships,” said MaliVai Washington, founder. “Our main goal is not only to get our students walking across the stage for high school graduation, but to be able to give them a way to further their education for a career.”
The foundation’s most prestigious scholarship, the George M. Soper Student Athlete of the Year for $5,000, is awarded to a student athlete who puts in extra effort on and off the court.
“It feels great to see my hard work on the court all year is getting recognized,” said Kameron Neal, Student Athlete of the Year winner. “I look up to the older kids who have gotten it before me and seeing where they are now makes me want to continue to grow.”
The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation extended its heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of the 2024 Scholarship Award Ceremony. These awards serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations, reminding everyone of the power of youth to drive meaningful change.
