Aaron Joel Smith Memorial Youth Volunteer Scholarship

Annual scholarship program honoring Aaron Joel Smith, a Northeast Magnet High School student and active volunteer who tragically lost his life in a car accident in 1991. Since 1992, these awards have celebrated his legacy by recognizing high school seniors who share his dedication to community service.

Award Amounts:

• First Place: $25,000
• Second Place: $15,000
• Third Place: $10,000

Geographic Scope: United Way service area including Sedgwick, Butler (all ZIP codes except 67042), Barber, Cowley, Harper, Kingman, Pratt, and Sumner Counties, plus ZIP codes 67025, 67035, 67068, 67108, 67135, 67147, and 67154

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a high school senior
• Must both attend school and live within United Way service area
• Must have volunteered a minimum of 200 hours outside of school and organizations/societies that require volunteerism
• Demonstrated strong commitment to community service and volunteerism

Selection Criteria:

• Outstanding community service
• Commitment to volunteerism
• Community impact

Application Process

1. Visit unitedwayplains.org/scholarship to access application
2. Complete online application form
3. Submit by 5 p.m., Monday, October 13 (annually)
4. Application opens in fall each year

Required Information:

• Personal information
• School information
• Volunteer hours documentation (minimum 200 hours required)
• Demonstration of commitment to community service

Note: Applications for the 2026 cycle will open in Fall 2026.