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Public Safety Scholarship

The Scholarship Program is funded solely from community donations, memberships, and generous and committed giving by our many partners and sponsors. We are very thankful for each and every one of these donors, as without them, we would be unable to offer this successful and impactful college assistance program.  Many of our scholarships are what we refer to as “Named Scholarships,” meaning that a family has donated money to award in honor or memory of a loved one who has passed, frequently a first responder’s spouse or parents. Other scholarships may be sponsored by a local business, and lastly, the majority of scholarships are DMFFC Scholarships coming from money raised throughout the year through memberships and other fundraisers promoted by our local community partners.

Scholarship Types, Criteria, and Timeline 

Types:  Scholarship may be awarded for eligible person wishing to pursue a course of study beyond high school as an undergraduate student. Awards are not available for those seeking a post-graduate college degree (Master’s Degree). Eligible programs include but are not limited to: Accredited colleges and universities Post-secondary trade schools.  The DMFC scholarship awards are one-time and funds are issued directly to the attending institution or trade school for tuition, books, fees, and/or housing. In 2024, we will be awarding Two (2) $1,500 and Four (4) $1,000 scholarships.

Criteria:  To be eligible to apply for a scholarship, they MUST be the child (natural or adopted) of an active, retired or deceased public safety personnel within Maricopa County.  Applicants must also maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and provide documentation of community service hours.  A written essay is to be completed, see application, and two (2) letters of recommendation.

Timeline:  Each scholarship is based on an academic year. For example, if you are going to be graduating high school or returning to school in Fall 2024 (academic year: 2024-25) and are interested in applying for a scholarship, you will need to apply for the DMFC’s Scholarship Application Process which opens February 1, 2024 and closes April 28, 2024.  Notifications of award/no award are made by the third week in May. Application Deadline: April 28, 2024.

Here are the items you will need in advance of filling out the application below: 

  1. Current High School Transcript
  2.  250 – 500 word Essay: Describe how volunteer or community service has shaped who you are today and what community service has taught you. Also, discuss in your essay about any challenges or obstacles you have dealt with and overcome in life and how this will help you succeed in college and beyond.
  3. Resume/Activity Sheet
  4. Two (2) Letters of Recommendation (with contact information)