The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards Posted byUnigo Staff May 29, 2015November 28, 2022 By tamara Do you know a student (grades 5 through 12) who volunteers at school or within the community? You may want to see if he or she would be a good candidate for the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. This annual scholarship program recognizes students who have made a difference in their communities over the past 12 months. There are 112 scholarships available, but the application cycle for 2014 is ending soon, so you’ll need to get moving. Here’s everything you need to know if you want to nominate a student or yourself! Who’s Eligible? You must meet ALL of the following conditions in order to apply: A legal U.S. resident (50 states and the District of Columbia)A student in grades 5 through 12 at time of applicationEngaged in a volunteer activity within the last 12 months What’s Required to Apply? If you meet the eligibility criteria, you must complete the online application (or call 1-877-525-8491 for a paper application) and submit it for certification of your volunteer project prior to November 4, 2014. Your school’s principal or one of the following agencies may certify your application: Girl Scouts CouncilCounty 4-H OrganizationsAmerican Red Cross ChaptersYMCAsHandsOn Network Affiliates In addition to the application, you will be required to write an essay explaining your volunteer project and the impact it had on your community. The essay should include information on what skills or insights you may have developed from the project, as well as how much time and effort you spent on it. This section of your application carries a lot of weight, so be sure to have an extra set of eyes look at it before you hit submit! How Much Can I Win? Two students from each state and the District of Columbia will be selected as State Honorees. Each will receive a $1,000 scholarship, an engraved silver medallion, and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. for national recognition events. From that group of 102 honorees, five high school and five middle school students will be named National Honorees and receive an additional $5,000 scholarship each. National Honorees will also receive a gold medallion and a crystal trophy for his/her school or certifying agency. If you don’t qualify for the program, or don’t think you have enough time to get your application together, no worries. There are plenty of other scholarships available. Whether you play sports, like to dance, or have a gift for writing, our free scholarship search tool will help you find scholarships that are perfect for you. So, what are you waiting for? Register for a free account today and start applying!