James R. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Fund Essay Contest
Funding Amount
$1,000 per award (200 awards available, $1 million total distributed)
Deadline
June 15, 2026
67 days left
Grant Type
foundation
Overview
James R. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Fund Essay Contest
Funder: Teamsters Joint Council No. 25 (International Brotherhood of Teamsters)
Geographic Scope: United States and Canada
Award Amount: $1,000 per award; 200 awards available; $1 million total distributed annually
Program Overview:
This scholarship provides opportunities for children of Teamster members to win essay contest awards. Applicants must write an essay of 500 words or less responding to the current year's topic.
- Must be the son, daughter, or financial dependent of an eligible Teamster member
- Must be a high school senior or current college student (program mentions higher-education students)
- Must be in good standing membership of Teamster union
Eligibility Requirements
Focus Area
Essay-based scholarship focused on labor union topics. Past topics include: "What impact would an increase in union membership have on the U.S. economy and the middle class?"- Phone: (202) 624-7471
- Website: Teamster.org
Contact Information
Additional Notes:
In 2017, the program increased to $1.4 million in total awards. Recipients are announced in summer following the application deadline.
How to Apply
Application Process
1. Download the application form from the Teamsters website
2. Write an essay of 500 words or less addressing the current year's topic
3. Complete the application form with required biographical information
4. Ensure typewritten essay submission
5. Submit by the deadline: June 15 (11:59 PM EST implied by "until June 15")
6. Allow time for membership verification through your local union, system federation, or BLET national division
- Completed application form
- 500-word maximum typewritten essay on assigned topic
- Proof of Teamster member parent/guardian relationship (verified through local union)
Required Materials
- If local union cannot verify membership due to time constraints, applicants may submit directly to the Scholarship Office
- Essays should address the annual essay prompt (varies by year)
- Selection based on essay quality, academic achievement, character, and potential
Submission Notes
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