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SERVE Scholarship

Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship

A Career Development Scholarship for SERVE Students

About the Scholarship

The Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship helps SERVE students pay for their next step after high school. Recipients can use it for college, vocational school, certifications, trainings and other approved career development experiences. Scholarships are awarded each spring at The Center’s Benefit Cook-Off.

In His Honor

Who was Jerry Walker?

Jerry Walker served on The Center's Board of Directors for more than 6 years and was a passionate volunteer, donor, and advocate for helping young people find hope and equipping them to thrive in life.

The Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship (JWMS) Fund, an endowed fund managed by the Community Foundation of Whitley County, was established in Jerry's honor, to partner with Whitley County young people whom Jerry cared deeply about.

Jerry Walker smiling during a video interview

Scholarship Details

Eligibility and Details

Two Semesters in SERVE

Students who have been active in SERVE for two or more semesters can apply. Relatives of scholarship committee members are not eligible.

Career Development After High School

Funds can be used for college, vocational school, certifications, trainings and other approved career development experiences.

Apply Through the Community Foundation

Applications go through the Community Foundation of Whitley County and are due March 1 each year.

Award Amounts Vary

The amount awarded changes each year based on available funding.

Committee Approval

Each career development experience must be approved by the scholarship committee.

Paid to the School

Funds are paid directly to the school or program, not to the student.

For Students

Apply

High School SERVE students are invited to apply for the Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship using the button below. Applications are due annually by March 1st.

All SERVE students are encouraged to attend The Center's annual Benefit Cook-Off in April, where the JWMS awards will be distributed. Don't miss this opportunity to be recognized for your hard work and dedication!

Caydence Potter holding her 2026 Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship certificate

Apply for the Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship

Applications are submitted through the Community Foundation of Whitley County and are due annually by March 1st.

For Donors

Donate

This endowed fund is open to receive new gifts and all donations are tax-deductible.

If you have a heart to encourage local young people to take risks and strive toward a career path that might otherwise seem unattainable, please contact Jake Johnson, Director of Operations, about this scholarship opportunity.

Two young adults smiling in front of The Center Benefit Cook-Off backdrop