Upper Keys Rotary Awards More than $200,000 in Scholarship Aid
Due to the success of its annual February event, the Upper Keys Rotary will provide $234,000 for the upper-level academic education of students in the Upper Florida Keys for the 2022-23 year.
Awards to the graduating seniors and existing college students total $154,000. This includes scholarships from the Landau Family Trust and a partnership between Rotary and Mariners Hospital. More than 90 applications were received from both groups.
The total scholarship amount awarded also includes a donation of $40,000 to the Take Stock in Children program, which is matched by the not-for-profit Monroe County Education Foundation, as well as $40,000 to Key Largo Rotary to award additional scholarships given for work during the Nautical Flea Market.
cholarship amounts ranged from $500 to $5,000.
“The success of the annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market is a direct result of total financial support awarded in scholarships,” said Frank Derfler, Rotary board member and scholarship committee co-chair. “That one weekend in February allows us to provide this level of support to our local kids who also volunteer at the event.”
All scholarship recipients complete an extensive application including a video; they are reviewed for merit, need and community service by the scholarship committee. In addition, graduating seniors sit for a live interview.
Throughout the year, Upper Keys Rotary makes available its application specific for those seeking certifications in a variety of fields including marine mechanics, emergency medical technician or mortgage lending. This application can be found at www.UpperKeysRotary.com.
The 28th annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market will be held Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 25-26, 2023 at Founders Park in Islamorada.
The Upper Keys Rotary, established in 1967, meets weekly at noon at Capt. Craig’s Restaurant. More information is available at KeysRotary.com, on Facebook, or from President Terry Abel at 305-360-1917.
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