Heart of Gold Scholarship

About the Heart of Gold Scholarship 

 

The Roberta K. Eichler Heart of Gold Scholarship is named for the longstanding Executive Director of the Stamford Volunteer Center. This $5,000 scholarship is awarded annually to support and promote the continuing education of an outstanding student volunteer from the Stamford community. 

 

ELIGIBILITY

Candidate must be a high school senior who is a Stamford resident and/or attends a high school in Stamford.

 

SELECTION CRITERIA

Students must demonstrate:

  1. Volunteer Experience: Active participation in one or more volunteer events/projects over the past two years.
  2. Dedication: Outstanding participation, commitment, and dedication to volunteerism.
  3. Leadership: Exhibits leadership qualities through volunteer activities.
  4. Financial Need: Based on household income and family size.
  5. Click here for a copy of the scoring rubric used by the Scholarship Committee.

 

APPLICATION MATERIALS 

  1. Completed Application Form [link to application form] 
  2. A copy of student's High School Transcript.
  3. Letters of Recommendation:
    • At least one letter of recommendation* by a supervising staff member of the nonprofit agency where the student volunteers, religious institution they attend, other supervising person related to the volunteer service, or their high school guidance counselor or teacher. 
    • Letters should attest to the student’s commitment to and participation in volunteering, leadership or any other relevant factors.
    • Letters may be submitted directly by the recommender to Victoria Scofield via email at heartofgoldcommittee@unitedwaycwc.org or mailed to the address below (postmarked by March 25, 2025). 
  4. (Optional) Supplemental Materials: Any additional supplemental materials that would enhance the student’s application, such as awards, certificates, photos, or other materials related to volunteer activities.
    • Awards, certificates, photos, or other items showcasing your volunteer work.

 

KEY DEADLINES AND TIMELINES

  • February 5th: Applications open

  • March 25th: Application deadline. Mailed applications must be postmarked by this date.  

  • Week of April 21st: Selected candidates invited for half-hour interviews 

  • April 30th: All candidates will be notified of the application decision 

  • Date TBD: Scholarships presented to students at a short presentation ceremony.  

 

HOW TO SUBMIT MATERIALS

Application materials can be submitted through either: 

  • Paper Submission:

    • Deliver your application to a school counselor at Stamford High School Westhill High School, or AITE. 

    • Or by mailing all application materials to: 

United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut 

c/o Victoria Scofield 

1150 Summer Street, 2nd Floor 

Stamford, CT 06905 

  • Submitting the form below: