Be Rewarded for Your Kindness to Others

By tamara

On this date in 1997, a small collection of humanitarian groups got together and started what is now known as World Kindness Day — a single day of the year (November 13) when everyone is encouraged to do something for someone else. It doesn’t have to be something monumental, either. Sure, you could collect clothes for the homeless or start a toy drive for children this holiday season, but something as simple as saying “hello” to a stranger counts, too. Just think of all the moments in your day where one small gesture could make a huge difference in someone’s life; such as that girl sitting alone at lunch, who may be reaching her breaking point, but a few minutes of your time sharing a meal could be all she needs to see a light in the darkness. Or maybe, holding the door open for an elderly person would demonstrate that courtesy and kindness still exists. You could even surprise a few people by paying for their coffee in the drive-thru at Starbucks on your way into class or work. The possibilities are endless.

If you’re one of those people who “pays it forward” throughout the year, we applaud your generous spirit. Your random acts of kindness and your volunteer work not only help make this world a better place, but they may also help you pay for college. Many scholarship providers seek out students who are giving back to their schools and communities, and they reward them with free money for college. Here are just a few of the scholarships you could be eligible to receive based on your kindness to others.

1. Youth Volunteer Scholarship Award

This $500 scholarship is available to students 21 and younger who have contributed at least 50 hours of volunteer service over the past two years. Students must also have a 3.5 GPA or higher. Deadline: November 29.

2. Christopher Reeve Award

Students between the ages of 12 and 18, who have demonstrated tremendous caring and compassion in their communities, may be eligible for this $1,000 scholarship. Deadline: December 1.

3. Scholars Helping Collars P.L.A.Y. Scholarship

High school juniors and seniors who volunteer their time at animal shelters or participate in other projects to benefit animals are encouraged to apply for this $1,000 scholarship. Deadline: December 3.

4. Stephen J. Brady Stop Hunger Scholarships

The Sodexo Foundation provides several $5,000 scholarships and grants each year to students who have made a commitment to ending hunger in their communities. Students between the ages of 5 and 25 may apply. Deadline: December 5.

5. Imagine America Scholarship

Students who graduated from high school in 2014 may apply for this $1,000 scholarship. There are more than 8,000 awards available to students who volunteered during their senior year of high school. Deadline: December 31.

6. ICRME White Rose Scholarship

The White Rose Scholarship Foundation provides several scholarships valued between $500 and $2,500 each year. Residents of Colorado who are current undergraduate or graduate students may apply. Students must have a 3.0 GPA or higher and provide evidence of community service. Deadline: January 12.

But, don’t stop here. There are hundreds of other scholarships offered each year to students who give back to their communities. DoSomething.org always has something fun available, and you can also find scholarships by using a free search service, such as Unigo.com.