SERVICE CHECK: Scholarships - Investing in Our Future

As we move through this long winter of 2026, the Peninsula Community Foundation (PCF) is celebrating one of our most life-changing seasons: Scholarships and Teacher Grants!  Every year, we see firsthand how these awards are more than just checks — they are votes of confidence in a student’s potential and a salute to an educator’s dedication and innovation. We are honored to be home to these funds that provide education opportunities, ensuring that every dollar finds  a deserving recipient.

​Impact by the Numbers
​Our portfolio of education-focused funds is growing, offering a robust set of resources for student and teacher success. We currently manage 23 such funds - 20 scholarships for students, and 3 educator grants. These funds are a combination of both endowed and non-endowed accounts. PCF processed 561 applications in 2025 and awarded 273 educators and students scholarships totaling $223,000 in grants and tuition assistance spread over 100 community colleges, trade schools and universities.

The Impact of Private Support

​“Scholarships bridge the gap between what families can afford and the rising cost of tuition. Every dollar won reduces the need for loans, preventing long-term financial burden. They allow students to focus on studies rather than financial stress, empowering them to make the most of their college experience.”
— Lori Ward, PCF

A Trusted Partner for Local Legacies
PCF serves as the professional oversight partner for major regional corporations and institutions. We manage programs for Ferguson Enterprises, the York Foundation for Public Education, and Langley Federal Credit Union.

PCF scholarships typically provide awards ranging from $500 up to $8,000 to support students in their educational journey.  We ensure these legacies are honored through a rigorous, multi-round judging process. Applying for a scholarship is a student's first "job interview" on paper, and we maintain a standard of excellence to match that importance.

Voices of Success
The true value of these funds is best expressed by the students themselves:

---

​Kaelin V.: “Being chosen for the Peninsula Scholarship was an honor and a huge help. It gave me the freedom to focus on my studies and take advantage of opportunities I may not have otherwise had.”
​

• Hailey S.: “The kindness bestowed by PCF has motivated me to excel. My education would not be the same without this scholarship, and I am forever grateful.”

---

Why Establish a Fund with PCF?
We handle the "heavy lifting"—from designing application criteria and marketing to schools to vetting hundreds of applicants and managing complex financial disbursements to institutions nationwide. Whether you are a family honoring a loved one or a business investing in your future workforce, we provide the expertise to ensure your gift makes the greatest possible impact.

Take the Next Step
To Create or Contribute: For assistance creating a new educational fund or contributing to an existing one, please contact Lori Ward at 757-327-0862.
To Apply: Click below to learn more about our available funds or to start your application.

LEARN MORE