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Jonathan Ovando

1,985

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

1x

Winner

Bio

My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran with a deep-rooted passion for service—both in and out of uniform. After completing my military service, I turned my focus to advocacy, spearheading grassroots efforts and lobbying to successfully pass federal legislation that expanded healthcare access for veterans. This law now allows veterans the choice to seek care within their communities, bypassing delays in the traditional VA system. While I gained valuable experience through this work, I realized that my true calling wasn’t behind a desk—it was on the front lines of helping people directly. That led me to pursue a career in Emergency Medical Services. I find deep fulfillment in responding to those in crisis, providing care when it matters most, and being a source of calm in chaos. In addition to my career, I volunteer weekly to serve and uplift my community. Whether it’s mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, or supporting local events, I believe that consistent service builds stronger, more connected communities. I’m pursuing further education and certifications in EMS to become the most skilled and reliable responder I can be. Receiving a scholarship would help me continue my mission to serve—this time with a stethoscope and a stretcher instead of a rifle.

Education

College of Southern Nevada

Trade School
2025 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other
    • Fire Protection
  • Minors:
    • Medicine
    • Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other

College of Southern Nevada

Associate's degree program
2025 - 2028
  • Majors:
    • Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other
  • Minors:
    • Music

Hawthorne High

High School
2008 - 2010

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Associate's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other
    • Fire Protection
  • Planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Medical Practice

    • Dream career goals:

      wildland firefighting

    • Lead massage therapist

      owned my own company, Structurally Sublime.
      2019 – 20212 years
    • grassroots director

      concerned veterans for america
      2021 – 20243 years

    Sports

    Skateboarding

    2014 – Present11 years

    Muay Thai

    2016 – 20182 years

    Research

    • Community Organization and Advocacy

      concerned veterans for america — grassroots director
      2021 – 2024

    Arts

    • no organization

      Dance
      2015 – Present

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Merging Vets and Players — assistant program manager
      2016 – Present
    • Advocacy

      concerned veterans for america — lobbyist
      2021 – 2024
    Autumn Davis Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done, it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done, it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Sloane Stephens Doc & Glo Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done, it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Richard (Dunk) Matthews II Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done, it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    I Can and I Will Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done, it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done, it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Catrina Celestine Aquilino Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Calvin C. Donelson Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I go to school to become a EMT, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of school, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Brattican Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I go to school to become a EMT, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of school, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    José Ventura and Margarita Melendez Mexican-American Scholarship Fund
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others—first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities—an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit—I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense—and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me—mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. As a first generation Mexican and Guatemalan, I am hoping to inspire the rest of my family and show them that Si Se Puede. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training—including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life—I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge—and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    First-Gen Futures Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Harry & Mary Sheaffer Scholarship
    Winner
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
    Our Destiny Our Future ScholarshipMy name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Maxwell Tuan Nguyen Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Scott W. Trades Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    David Hinsdale Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    John Acuña Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Zedikiah Randolph Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Rod Tucci Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Sharra Rainbolt Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. One of those lives was mine. I am a two time cancer survivor and unfortunately lost a testicle because of it. If it wasn't for the legislation I helped pass, I would have lost more than that. I am still dealing with some of the hormonal effects but I keep pressing on. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Mark Green Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud first generation minority Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Slater Miller Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others, first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities with a non-profit, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life, I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Ben Bonner Memorial Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others—first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities—an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit—I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense—and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me—mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training—including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life—I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge—and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Fire and EMS Academy Scholarship
    My name is Jon, and I’m a proud Marine Corps veteran who has dedicated his life to serving others—first in uniform, then through legislation, and now through emergency medical care. Service isn’t just something I’ve done; it’s who I am. After leaving the military, I led a grassroots advocacy campaign that helped pass critical legislation giving veterans the freedom to seek medical care in their communities, an option that saved countless lives and reduced delays in the overburdened VA system. That experience gave me purpose, but I soon realized that while legislative wins were meaningful, my heart was drawn to direct, hands-on service. I didn’t want to help from behind a computer or in a suit, I wanted to be where people needed help the most, in real time. That calling led me to Emergency Medical Services. Today, I work in EMS, where every shift brings opportunities to make a difference. Whether responding to a cardiac arrest, comforting someone in pain, or simply being a steady hand in the middle of chaos, I’ve found a career that allows me to keep serving my community in a deeply personal way. It’s humbling, rewarding, and often intense, and I love it. Outside of work, I volunteer weekly to support those around me, mentoring youth, helping fellow veterans, and staying connected to my community. I believe true leadership is built through service, and I’m committed to giving back however I can. This scholarship would play a critical role in helping me reach the next level in my EMS career. I am currently pursuing additional certifications and training, including paramedic licensure, trauma response courses, and advanced cardiac life support. These programs are expensive, and balancing the financial strain of tuition, equipment, and living expenses while working full-time and volunteering isn’t easy. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus more energy on learning, training, and preparing to serve at the highest level possible. It would relieve a significant financial burden, giving me the freedom to invest in myself and grow into the kind of responder my patients, teammates, and community deserve. I’m not asking for this scholarship just to better my own life. I’m asking so I can better the lives of those I serve. Your investment would ripple outward, touching every person I encounter in my work and my community. With your support, I will become stronger, sharper, and more capable of delivering care with compassion and excellence. Thank you for considering me. I’m ready to rise to the challenge, and to keep showing up for those who need me.
    Jonathan Ovando Student Profile | Bold.org