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Valley Guardians Trade School Scholarship

About This Scholarship

The Valley Guardians are proud to offer their new Trade School Scholarship. This need‑ and merit‑based scholarship is available to exceptional high‑school students and adults in Arizona who need financial support to continue their dreams and success through trade or vocational education.

This scholarship is to support those students who have done all they can to support themselves but still need additional financial assistance. It is for those who have made significant achievements despite overwhelming adversity in their lives. It’s for those who have pursued continuous improvement and are looking to add value to society, despite facing uncommon challenges for their age.

The scholarship is worth $1,000–$3,000 with additional funding available depending on the student applicants’ unique circumstances [need, effort, program type, program length, etc.]. Funding is made possible through the generous donations received from the Valley Guardians and its supporters.

What is Included?

In addition to being eligible to receive financial support for your chosen trade or vocational program, scholars will be supported in the following ways:

Leadership – receive coaching from Valley Guardians professionals who demonstrate how successful people live and operate.

School – help creating a sustainable financial plan for the chosen trade or vocation and support in obtaining certifications.

Professional Life – assistance with identifying and applying for jobs, internships, or volunteer positions related to the student’s field

Eligibility

Open to all high school students and older who have been nominated by a Valley Guardians Board Member or Associate, living in Arizona, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other background factors. Winners are selected based on three distinct criteria which demonstrate the applicants’ financial need, personal accountability, and past achievements.

Application Process

Accepting Applications: Ongoing [Submit to Team@LeadAZ.org for evaluation by the Selection Committee].

  • Freeze time period: Applications will not be processed from 5/15/2025 – 7/31/2025.

Application Process:

  • Once the application is received, the applicant will be scheduled to meet with the Leadership Society of Arizona (LSA) for an initial interview. Incomplete applications will be disqualified.
  • If an applicant passes the interview, LSA will schedule a time for them to come to its home office and help them put their financial plan together based on their needs.
  • Once complete, LSA will submit their plan to the Selection Committee for evaluation and their determination.
  • Next, the Selection Committee will complete their evaluation, and select candidates will be invited to virtually meet the full Selection Committee for a personal presentation and interview. Each presentation/interview is expected to be around 20 minutes.
  • Finally, the Selection Committee will identify if the applicant was selected and LSA will begin the onboarding process.

Award Announcement: Ongoing

  • Students accepted will be invited to virtually meet with the Selection Committee to receive their awarded scholarship.
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