ALSO Youth launches enrichment scholarship honoring Judge Rick De Furia

A new scholarship called the Honorable Rick De Furia Enrichment Scholarship provides up to $1,500 to a single eligible LGBTQ+ youth in Sarasota or Manatee County to pursue learning and growth opportunities outside formal schooling. It targets participants in ALSO Youth programs and aims to broaden access to experiences such as arts, leadership development, and career exploration.

What changed

ALSO Youth has introduced a new scholarship prize named in honor of Judge Rick De Furia. The fund helps cover enrichment opportunities that may not be affordable with standard scholarships. Eligible uses include music or art lessons, creative writing, leadership training, certifications, and other personal-growth experiences. The award amount is up to $1,500 and is paid toward the approved opportunity, not directly to the recipient or family.

Who is affected

The scholarship is open to LGBTQ+ young people ages 10 to 24 who live in Sarasota or Manatee County and who regularly participate in ALSO Youth programming. The program is operated in the region and connects eligible youth to enrichment activities outside traditional schooling.

Practical next steps

Eligible participants or guardians should verify eligibility through ALSO Youth program channels and note the scholarship’s funding cap of up to $1,500. Applicants should prepare a plan for an enrichment activity (such as lessons, workshops, or certifications) and identify a sponsoring or confirming organization where the activity will take place. Funds are disbursed toward the approved opportunity, so applicants should arrange enrollment or registration details accordingly.

Limits and questions

Details such as the number of awards per year, application timelines, and exact eligibility criteria beyond age, location, and program participation are not specified in the available material. Readers should check with ALSO Youth for official guidelines, deadlines, and the exact process for submitting an application.

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