Judy Fowler Memorial Scholarship

When I was seven, my music teacher held a charity concert to raise money for schools in Haiti. My brother and I wanted to help donate, so we put together a lemonade stand in our front yard. Thanks to kind friends, neighbors, and strangers, we raised a whole $30. I remember how proud we were of those first $30. The two of us felt like we had really done something to make a difference, no matter how small. The next summer, we decided to hold another lemonade stand, this time to raise money for our local Children’s Justice Center. And there, the tradition of our “Helping Hands Lemonade Stand” began. Every summer since we’ve chosen a cause and spent a day selling lemonade. Over the last ten years, we’ve been able to donate to both local and international causes. Although we’ve loved every cause, the local ones have been the most meaningful to me. We’ve been able to support a neighbor on a religious mission, a friend with cancer, and the local hospital’s pediatric unit. One of the best parts of serving our community is seeing the impact our service can make. When donating to the hospital, we purchased activities and toys for kids there, then delivered them in person. I’ll never forget how excited I was as a little 11-year-old to spread joy to the kids in the hospital, and how blessed I felt to be able to serve those in need. Our little lemonade stand has grown into something so much bigger than ourselves. The real impact is made by the amazing community we live in. Every year people end up donating far more than the lemonade is worth to support us and our causes. Nothing can compare to the feeling of a total stranger showing love and support for our lemonade stand. We explain our purpose while filling up cups of lemonade, and their smiles grow and grow. These interactions have impacted me so much more than these people will ever know. The amount of generosity is mind-blowing and really shows just how good people are. The full circle of service is amazing because all it takes is our desire to serve and help, and that simple act can make a great impact not only on those we serve but on ourselves as well. I hope to spend my life serving my community the way Judy Fowler did. I want to dedicate my time to those in need, with more than just our lemonade stand but other forms of service as well. As I prepare to graduate from High School and move on to College I know there are so many people in need of service and a helping hand. With the support of this scholarship, I would be able to continue Judy’s legacy by being involved in serving my community, contributing, and making a difference everywhere I go. I know from experience that service brings about the greatest growth and joy we can have and share with others.