VAC Veterans Memorial Scholarship Grant

The VAC Veterans Memorial Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, provides financial assistance to children and grandchildren of active-duty military personnel and honorably discharged veterans. Applicants must be Illinois high school graduates with a minimum 2.5 GPA and provide proof of military connection. This scholarship not only supports educational pursuits but also honors the legacy of service to the country, fostering the next generation of leaders and scholars.

The Community Foundation for McHenry County
The Community Foundation for McHenry County (CFMC) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity created by and for the residents of McHenry County. Originally known as the McHenry County Community Foundation, we were established to provide a sustainable source of charitable giving for local nonprofit organizations and students.
Today, CFMC is the county’s leading philanthropic organization. We manage more than 100 charitable funds and work with individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits to support meaningful causes throughout the county. Each year, we grant approximately $1.5 million to nonprofit agencies serving local residents and $50,000 in scholarships to students annually by supporting their pursuit of a secondary education.
The Veterans Assistance Commission (VAC) of McHenry County is dedicated to providing a wide range of support services to veterans and their families. They assist veterans in navigating benefits from federal, state, and local programs, offering help with claims for disability compensation, pension, healthcare, and educational benefits. The VAC also provides emergency financial assistance, transportation services, and guidance on accessing veteran-specific resources to ensure that those who have served the country receive the help they need.
In addition to these services, the VAC offers the VAC Veterans Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is designed to assist the children or grandchildren of active-duty personnel, honorably discharged veterans, members of the National Guard, or military reservists. It provides financial support for pursuing higher education, helping these individuals access the educational program of their choice while honoring the legacy of their family members’ military service.

Eligibility

Applicants must be an Illinois high school graduating senior or high school graduate who is the child, stepchild or grandchild of active duty personnel, or honorably discharged veterans of the United States military, National Guard and military reservists.Applicants must hold a 2.5 GPA or better (based on a 4.0 scale).Applicants must have a photocopy of the DD-214, a Certification of Post Membership, OR a Military ID Card (copy) when applyingPreference will be given to applicants who are or will be accepted to a higher institution within the State of Illinois.