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Akerman Academic Excellence Scholarship

National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association

Foundation Annual Grants for Foster Care
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Funding Amount

$2,500 annually for up to 4 years

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

Akerman Academic Excellence Scholarship

Overview: A scholarship program funded by law firm Akerman LLP through an endowment established in 2015 as part of their $1 million pledge to the National CASA/GAL Association.

Eligibility:

  • Young adults who have spent time in foster care

  • Pursuing post-secondary education at an accredited university, college, or technical school

  • Demonstrate outstanding academic commitment and readiness for success

    • Award Details:

  • Amount: $2,500 per year

  • Duration: Up to 4 years of higher education

  • Total endowment: Supporting multiple scholars with $10,000 contributed annually (as of 2021)

    • Purpose: The scholarship minimizes the financial burden of higher education for youth aging out of foster care, helping them be more successful after aging out and living independently.

    Background: Since 2016, law firm Akerman LLP has granted scholarships to help young adults in foster care continue their academic journey. The program recognizes that only 15% of foster youth attend postsecondary institutions, and only about 1-3% complete college due to insufficient support, lack of appropriate guidance, and unmet financial needs.

    Contact: National CASA/GAL Association for Children

  • Phone: 1.800.628.3233

  • Address: 100 West Harrison Street, North Tower, Suite 140, Seattle, WA 98119

  • Address: 100 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30303

  • Website: nationalcasagal.org

    • How to Apply

    Application Process

    Nomination-Based: The scholarship is awarded through a nomination process rather than direct applications.

    How to Nominate:

  • Nominations are typically accepted in early years (check website for specific timing)

  • Nominees must be former foster youth associated with a CASA program

  • CASA volunteers and program staff can nominate candidates

  • Nominators should highlight the nominee's academic achievements, commitment to education, and readiness for success

    • Selection Criteria:

  • Outstanding academic commitment

  • Readiness for success in higher education

  • Personal story of overcoming obstacles

  • Community involvement and advocacy (when applicable)

    • Note: For current nomination deadlines and procedures, applicants should contact National CASA/GAL directly or check back on the website early each year.

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    Focus Areas & Funding Uses

    Fields of Work

    foster-parents

    Categories

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