I am applying for the Sweet Hut Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college or professional sports as an equipment manager a reality. I have already been accepted into the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas for Fall 2025, where I will focus on Sport Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as an equipment manager either at a college or university or in the National Football League (NFL). Sports have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being part of the action behind the scenes is what I aspire to do. I am hardworking, self-motivated, and ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this career path. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project titled "Inclusive Postsecondary Education Opportunities for People with Intellectual Opportunities" which promotes inclusive post-secondary education. I’ve already presented at the Texas Advocates, Texas Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program conferences, to the TCDD and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation staffs, Point Venture Lions Club and Lago Vista ISD teachers and counselors. I was also asked to speak at the Texas State Capitol to helps support a bill on inclusive postsecondary education programs in Texas. I hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure.

I am applying for the TRAM Resilience Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college or professional sports as an equipment manager a reality. I have already been accepted into the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas for Fall 2025, where I will focus on Sport Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as an equipment manager either at a college or university or in the National Football League (NFL). Sports have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being part of the action behind the scenes is what I aspire to do. I am hardworking, self-motivated, and ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this career path. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project titled "Inclusive Postsecondary Education Opportunities for People with Intellectual Opportunities" which promotes inclusive post-secondary education. I’ve already presented at the Texas Advocates, Texas Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program conferences, to the TCDD and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation staffs, Point Venture Lions Club and Lago Vista ISD teachers and counselors. I was also asked to speak at the Texas State Capitol to helps support a bill on inclusive postsecondary education programs in Texas. I hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure.

I am applying for the Charlene K. Howard Chogo Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college or professional sports as an equipment manager a reality. I have already been accepted into the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas for Fall 2025, where I will focus on Sport Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as an equipment manager either at a college or university or in the National Football League (NFL). Sports have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being part of the action behind the scenes is what I aspire to do. I am hardworking, self-motivated, and ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this career path. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project titled "Inclusive Postsecondary Education Opportunities for People with Intellectual Opportunities" which promotes inclusive post-secondary education. I’ve already presented at the Texas Advocates, Texas Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program conferences, to the TCDD and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation staffs, Point Venture Lions Club and Lago Vista ISD teachers and counselors. I was also asked to speak at the Texas State Capitol to helps support a bill on inclusive postsecondary education programs in Texas. I hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure.

This scholarship will help make my dream of working in college or professional sports as an equipment manager a reality. I have already been accepted into the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas for Fall 2025, where I will focus on Sport Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as an equipment manager either at a college or university or in the National Football League (NFL). Sports have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being part of the action behind the scenes is what I aspire to do. I am hardworking, self-motivated, and ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this career path. Living with an intellectual disability, low vision and low hearing has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project titled "Inclusive Postsecondary Education Opportunities for People with Intellectual Opportunities" which promotes inclusive post-secondary education. I’ve already presented at the Texas Advocates, Texas Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program conferences, to the TCDD and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation staffs, Point Venture Lions Club and Lago Vista ISD teachers and counselors. I hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo, and ambassador for TCDD, and other community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. Community service has also shown me that I am capable of making a difference, no matter my challenges. I’ve learned to work with others, be responsible, and contribute to my community, which is something I’ll carry with me after graduation. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

Throughout my educational journey, my mom has been my greatest supporter, guiding me every step of the way. From taking me on all my college visits to helping me explore my passion for athletics, she has played an instrumental role in shaping my future. As a single mother after divorce from my father when I was only 5, she has made countless sacrifices to ensure that I have every opportunity to succeed. Her unwavering dedication, hard work, and love have not only driven me to pursue my dreams but have also taught me the value of perseverance and resilience. Growing up, I was surrounded by college athletics. My mom was a college athlete and later a coach, and I was lucky to witness firsthand the discipline, dedication, and passion required to be successful in sports. Because of her, I developed a strong desire to work in athletics, specifically as a college or professional sports equipment manager. She not only encouraged me to follow this dream but also took an active role in helping me find the right college program to support my career aspirations. She accompanied me on numerous college visits, ensuring that I had all the information I needed to make the best decision for my future. Without her support, I would not have had the opportunity to explore these programs or feel confident in my choice. My mom’s sacrifices have had a profound impact on me. As a single mother, she has worked tirelessly, often putting in over 50 hours a week at her job while finding additional ways to make money on the side. Despite her demanding schedule, she has never missed any of my activities. Whether it was a football game, a school event, or a community service project, she was always there, cheering me on and showing me that my success mattered to her. Seeing her dedication has taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance. It has also motivated me to push myself, knowing that her sacrifices were made to give me the best possible future. As I work toward my goals, I honor my mom’s support by giving my best effort in everything I do. I strive to make her proud by taking advantage of every opportunity she has helped me gain. Whether it’s excelling in school, working hard in my role as a football student manager, or preparing for a career in athletics, I carry her lessons with me. Her example has shown me that success is not just about talent but also about dedication, effort, and resilience. Growing up in a single-parent household presents unique challenges, but my mom’s support has been instrumental in ensuring that I never felt at a disadvantage. She has always encouraged me to dream big and work hard, showing me that no obstacle is too great to overcome. Her strength has given me the confidence to believe in myself and my abilities. Moving forward, I will continue to build on her support by staying committed to my goals and embracing every challenge as an opportunity to grow. I will use the lessons she has taught me to navigate the ups and downs of life, knowing that hard work and perseverance will lead to success. Most importantly, I will always remember the sacrifices she made for me and strive to make her proud in everything I do. My mom’s love and dedication have shaped me into the person I am today, and I am forever grateful for the impact she has had on my life.

I am applying for the Patricia Lindsey Jackson Foundation-Mary Louise Lindsey Service Scholarship Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college or professional sports as an equipment manager a reality. I have already been accepted into the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas for Fall 2025, where I will focus on Sport Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as an equipment manager either at a college or university or in the National Football League (NFL). Sports have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being part of the action behind the scenes is what I aspire to do. I am hardworking, self-motivated, and ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this career path. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project titled "Inclusive Postsecondary Education Opportunities for People with Intellectual Opportunities" which promotes inclusive post-secondary education. I’ve already presented at the Texas Advocates, Texas Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program conferences, to the TCDD and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation staffs, Point Venture Lions Club and Lago Vista ISD teachers and counselors. I hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. Through all of my community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into someone who leads by example. Community service has also shown me that I am capable of making a difference, no matter my challenges. I’ve learned to work with others, be responsible, and contribute to my community, which is something I’ll carry with me after graduation. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have the determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

I am applying for the Sloan Stephens Doc & Go Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college or professional sports as an equipment manager a reality. I have already been accepted into the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas for Fall 2025, where I will focus on Sport Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as an equipment manager either at a college or university or in the National Football League (NFL). Sports have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being part of the action behind the scenes is what I aspire to do. I am hardworking, self-motivated, and ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this career path. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project titled "Inclusive Postsecondary Education Opportunities for People with Intellectual Opportunities" which promotes inclusive post-secondary education. I’ve already presented at the Texas Advocates, Texas Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program conferences, to the TCDD and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation staffs, Point Venture Lions Club and Lago Vista ISD teachers and counselors. I hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. Through all of my community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into someone who leads by example. Community service has also shown me that I am capable of making a difference, no matter my challenges. I’ve learned to work with others, be responsible, and contribute to my community, which is something I’ll carry with me after graduation. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have the determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

Throughout my educational journey, my mom has been my greatest supporter, guiding me every step of the way. From taking me on all my college visits to helping me explore my passion for athletics, she has played an instrumental role in shaping my future. As a single mother, she has made countless sacrifices to ensure that I have every opportunity to succeed. Her unwavering dedication, hard work, and love have not only driven me to pursue my dreams but have also taught me the value of perseverance and resilience. Growing up, I was surrounded by college athletics. My mom was a college athlete and later a coach, and I was lucky to witness firsthand the discipline, dedication, and passion required to be successful in sports. Because of her, I developed a strong desire to work in athletics, specifically as a college or professional sports equipment manager. She not only encouraged me to follow this dream but also took an active role in helping me find the right college program to support my career aspirations. She accompanied me on numerous college visits, ensuring that I had all the information I needed to make the best decision for my future. Without her support, I would not have had the opportunity to explore these programs or feel confident in my choice. My mom’s sacrifices have had a profound impact on me. As a single mother, she has worked tirelessly, often putting in over 50 hours a week at her job while finding additional ways to make money on the side. Despite her demanding schedule, she has never missed any of my activities. Whether it was a football game, a school event, or a community service project, she was always there, cheering me on and showing me that my success mattered to her. Seeing her dedication has taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance. It has also motivated me to push myself, knowing that her sacrifices were made to give me the best possible future. As I work toward my goals, I honor my mom’s support by giving my best effort in everything I do. I strive to make her proud by taking advantage of every opportunity she has helped me gain. Whether it’s excelling in school, working hard in my role as a football student manager, or preparing for a career in athletics, I carry her lessons with me. Her example has shown me that success is not just about talent but also about dedication, effort, and resilience. Growing up in a single-parent household presents unique challenges, but my mom’s support has been instrumental in ensuring that I never felt at a disadvantage. She has always encouraged me to dream big and work hard, showing me that no obstacle is too great to overcome. Her strength has given me the confidence to believe in myself and my abilities. Moving forward, I will continue to build on her support by staying committed to my goals and embracing every challenge as an opportunity to grow. I will use the lessons she has taught me to navigate the ups and downs of life, knowing that hard work and perseverance will lead to success. Most importantly, I will always remember the sacrifices she made for me and strive to make her proud in everything I do. My mom’s love and dedication have shaped me into the person I am today, and I am forever grateful for the impact she has had on my life.

Being a part of the Point Venture Leo Club (Young Lions Club) has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my high school years. I’ve had the chance to work with friends on meaningful community service projects that have taught me a lot about teamwork, responsibility, and helping others. Throughout my time in the club, we’ve completed many different projects that fundraise for various organizations like Safe in Austin Animal Rescue and the American Diabetes Foundation. One of my favorite projects is the Flag-a-Yard fundraiser. For an annual donation, we place a flag in the yards of our community members on five major holidays. We spent weeks planning, purchasing all of the flag and equipment and spreading the word around town. I enjoyed getting the flags ready to be placed, driving around the neighborhood to place them and pick them up and seeing how much we were able to give back. The patriotism that is exhibited around our community by displaying the flags isn't something that I take lightly. Knowing that our efforts could help our community gave me a huge sense of pride and accomplishment. Another project that stands out is our neighborhood cleanup days. We all work together to pick up trash around the entire community and park. It is hard work, but seeing the neighborhood look so clean and beautiful after our efforts made it all worth it. This experience taught me that even small acts of kindness, like picking up litter, can have a big impact on the spaces we share. We also participate in National Night Out, The Lions Club Charity Golf Tournament, and at holiday events, like the July 4th Fest, Santa in the Village and Halloween Fest, where we have booths for the kids in the neighborhood. We also work at the Concert in the Village, which is a fundraiser for college scholarships. We serve dinner and dessert to attendees. We also fill and hide eggs for the kids at our park during Easter. These projects show me how important it is to think about others during the holidays. Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces when they received gifts was unforgettable. I think all of these projects have brought our community closer. Being in the Leo Club has shown me that I am capable of making a difference, no matter my challenges. I’ve learned to work with others, be responsible, and contribute to my community, which is something I’ll carry with me after graduation.

Essay 1 - How has your Special Education porgram inspired you to pursue college or a certification training? Most of my classes are in the Special Education classroom, but I do attend some general education classes. I have found it difficult to navigate not being able to be with my friends throughout the school day. I know I need the extra assistance, but I sometimes wish I would have been able to have the same experiences that my friends had. What I learned is that even though I might not succeed in traditional academic settings, I excel in social and independent living skills, as well as in areas of responsibility that go beyond the classroom. My academic challenges do not define me; they motivate me to prove my abilities in other areas. I am very independent and take pride in managing most things on my own, like driving myself to school, working a part-time job at Captain Pete’s, and even advocating for a raise. My IQ may reflect some limitations academically, but I score highly on adaptive skills and can function independently in many aspects of my life. This balance is key to who I am: resilient, capable, and determined to succeed. To overcome the fact that I do not see my friends all day, every day, I became very active in my high school community, where I am a student trainer and manager for our football and basketball teams, assisting with hydration, equipment setup, and I work closely with the quarterbacks during football practices. In addition to sports, I participate in Special Olympics and have won medals in bowling, basketball, and track and field. My work ethic, combined with my passion for sports, is what I believe makes me stand out as a candidate for this scholarship. As a high school senior with an intellectual disability, I view education as a key to unlocking my potential and building a future that I am excited about. While learning has often required more effort and different approaches for me including being in a special education classroom for some of my core classes, my experiences have taught me that education is not only about mastering my academic classes; it’s about preparing for life. Education gives me the tools to become more independent, to explore my interests, and to develop skills that will help me achieve my dreams. Through education, I am gaining hands-on experiences that will make me a valuable team member in the future. In high school, I’ve had the opportunity to work with the football and basketball team as a student trainer and manager, which has given me insights and skills I could not have gained on my own. This experience has been invaluable, allowing me to understand the demands and responsibilities of the role I aspire to. Without education, I would not have these opportunities to practice and grow. In college, I will be working with the football team and in the equipment room to prepare me for my future career. Education also plays an important role in helping me become independent. By taking a variety of classes and learning practical skills, I am building a foundation that will allow me to manage my own life with confidence. For students like me, education goes beyond traditional academics; it includes life skills, social skills, and practical knowledge. These aspects of my education are preparing me for adulthood and showing me that I have a place in the world. Education, in all its forms, is opening doors for me and giving me the chance to reach my fullest potential. Essay 2 - How has your experience with challenge and difficulty played a significant role in your life? Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers and hardships others did not, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. For this, I am very proud. Also, in overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities. I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I presented at the Texas Parent to Parent, Texas Advocates, and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program conferences and also to the Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation staff, the Point Venture Lions Club and the Lago Vista ISD teachers and counselors. I hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I also serve as a PALS mentor for elementary students with disabilities. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger.

Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges has not only helped me grow personally and prepare me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but have made me more determined to succeed. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities. I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. Being part of the Point Venture Leo Club has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my high school years. I’ve had the chance to work with friends on meaningful community service projects that have taught me a lot about teamwork, responsibility, and helping others. Throughout my time in the club, we’ve completed many different projects that fundraise for various organizations like Safe in Austin Animal Rescue and the American Diabetes Foundation. One of my favorite projects is the Flag-a-Yard fundraiser. For an annual donation, we place a flag in the yards of our community members on five major holidays. We spent weeks planning, purchasing all of the flag and equipment and spreading the word around town. I enjoyed getting the flags ready to be placed, driving around the neighborhood to place them and pick them up and seeing how much we were able to give back. We also participate in National Night Out and The Lions Club Charity Golf Tournament. Knowing that our efforts could help our community gave me a huge sense of pride and accomplishment. Another project that stands out is our neighborhood cleanup days. We all work together to pick up trash around the entire community and park. It is hard work, but seeing the neighborhood look so clean and beautiful after our efforts made it all worth it. This experience taught me that even small acts of kindness, like picking up litter, can have a big impact on the spaces we share. We also volunteer at holiday events, like the July 4th Fest, Santa in the Village and Halloween Fest, where we have booths for the kids in the neighborhood. We also work at the Concert in the Village, which is a fundraiser for college scholarship. We serve dinner and dessert to attendees. We also fill and hide eggs for the kids at our park during Easter. These projects show me how important it is to think about others during the holidays. Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces when they received gifts was unforgettable. Through being a Point Venture Leo and ambassador for TCDD, I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. Community service has also shown me that I am capable of making a difference, no matter my challenges. I’ve learned to work with others, be responsible, and contribute to my community, which is something I’ll carry with me after graduation.

My name is Kason Erwin, and I am applying for the Valerie Rabb Academic Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college or professional sports as an equipment manager a reality. I have already been accepted into the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas for Fall 2025 and I will focus on Sport Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as an equipment manager either at a college or university or in the National Football League (NFL). Sports have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being part of the action behind the scenes is what I aspire to do. I am hardworking, self-motivated, and ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this career path. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project titled "Inclusive Postsecondary Education Opportunities for People with Intellectual Opportunities" which promotes inclusive post-secondary education. I’ve already presented at the Texas Advocates, Texas Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program conferences, to the TCDD and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation staffs, Point Venture Lions Club and Lago Vista ISD teachers and counselors. I hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. Community service has also shown me that I am capable of making a difference, no matter my challenges. I’ve learned to work with others, be responsible, and contribute to my community, which is something I’ll carry with me after graduation. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

Life Without Borders Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at the Texas Advocates, Texas Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program conferences, to the TCDD and TWC Vocational Rehabilitation staffs, and to the Point Venture Lions Club and Lago Vista ISD teachers and counselors. I hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. Being part of the Point Venture Leo Club has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my high school years. I’ve had the chance to work with friends on meaningful community service projects that have taught me a lot about teamwork, responsibility, and helping others. Throughout my time in the club, we’ve completed many different projects that fundraise for various organizations like Safe in Austin Animal Rescue and the American Diabetes Foundation. One of my favorite projects is the Flag-a-Yard fundraiser. For an annual donation, we place a flag in the yards of our community members on five major holidays. We spent weeks planning, purchasing all of the flag and equipment and spreading the word around town. I enjoyed getting the flags ready to be placed, driving around the neighborhood to place them and pick them up and seeing how much we were able to give back. We also participate in National Night Out and The Lions Club Charity Golf Tournament. Knowing that our efforts could help our community gave me a huge sense of pride and accomplishment. Another project that stands out is our neighborhood cleanup days. We all work together to pick up trash around the entire community and park. It is hard work, but seeing the neighborhood look so clean and beautiful after our efforts made it all worth it. We also volunteer at holiday events, like the July 4th Fest, Santa in the Village and Halloween Fest, where we have booths for the kids in the neighborhood. We also work at the Concert in the Village, which is a fundraiser for college scholarships. We also fill and hide eggs for the kids at our park during Easter. These projects show me how important it is to think about others during the holidays. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and ambassador for TCDD, and other community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. Community service has also shown me that I am capable of making a difference, no matter my challenges. I’ve learned to work with others, be responsible, and contribute to my community, which is something I’ll carry with me after graduation. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have already accepted early admission to the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

I have already been accepted into the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas for Fall 2025 to study Sport Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as an equipment manager either at a college or university or in the National Football League (NFL). Sports have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being part of the action behind the scenes is what I aspire to do even with a intellectual disability. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. My mom is the one that got we interested in sports, as she was a college athlete and worked in college athletics. She taught me even if I didn't have the physical ability to be a college athlete, I could still find a way to be involved with a team. I am hardworking, self-motivated, and ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this career path.

As a person with an intellectual disability, I know how important it is to have someone who understands your journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and completing other community service projects, I’ve learned the value of giving back. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences including Texas Advocates, Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face.

Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve also discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and completing other community service projects, I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences including Texas Advocates, Parent to Parent and Texas Partners in Policymaking Program. I have also presented to the Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Program staff and the Point Venture Lions Club and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

My name is Kason Erwin, and I am applying for the Iliana Arie Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college sports a reality. Getting to tell you about how wonderful my mom is is truly an honor. My mom and dad divorced when I was only 4 years old so my mom has been my rock. She has always supported me and been my number one fan. I was born with a genetic disorder and intellectual disability so life isn't always the easiest, but my mom encouraged me to always try my best and never let anything hold me back. She taught me that there is no such thing as "normal" and that even if I have differences, it doesn't take away from what I have to offer. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as a college equipment manager. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and other community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have already accepted early admission to the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

This is one of the easiest essays I have ever written! Getting the chance to brag on how amazing my mom is does not happen often enough. My mom and dad divorced when I was only 4 years old so my mom has taken on both parenting roles. She has taught me so much and supported me through everything. Even though I have a genetic disorder and intellectual disability, my mom never let me use it as an excuse or allow it to hold me back. She pushed me and encouraged me to do everything like my friends. She has taught me that I can do anything! I am applying to the Raise Me Up to DO GOOD Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college sports a reality. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as a college equipment manager. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and other community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have already accepted early admission to the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

My name is Kason Erwin, and I am applying for the Puzzle Piece Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college sports a reality. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as a college equipment manager. Living with a genetic disorder and intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and other community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have already accepted early admission to the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

I am applying for the Tebra Laney Hopson All is Well Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college or professional sports as an assistant equipment manager a reality. I have already been accepted into the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas for Fall 2025 to study Sport Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as an equipment manager either at a college or university or in the National Football League (NFL). Sports have been my passion for as long as I can remember, and being part of the action behind the scenes is what I aspire to do. I am hardworking, self-motivated, and ready to take on the responsibilities that come with this career path. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. Most of my classes are in the Special Education classroom, but I do attend some general education classes. I have found it difficult to navigate not being able to be with my friends throughout the school day. I know I need the extra assistance, but I sometimes wish I would have been able to have the same experiences that my friends had. What I learned is that even though I might not succeed in traditional academic settings, I excel in social and independent living skills, as well as in areas of responsibility that go beyond the classroom. My academic challenges do not define me; they motivate me to prove my abilities in other areas. I am very independent and take pride in managing most things on my own, like driving myself to school, working a part-time job at Captain Pete’s, and even advocating for a raise. My IQ may reflect some limitations academically, but I score highly on adaptive skills and can function independently in many aspects of my life. This balance is key to who I am: resilient, capable, and determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve also discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

As a high school senior with an intellectual disability, I view community service as a key to unlocking my potential and building a future that I am excited about. While living with a disability has often required more effort and different approaches for me including being in a special education classroom for some of my core classes, I have been given the tools to become more independent, to explore my interests, and to develop skills that will help me achieve my dreams. Being a part of the Point Venture Leo Club has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my high school years. I’ve had the chance to work with friends on meaningful community service projects that have taught me a lot about teamwork, responsibility, and helping others. Throughout my time in the club, we’ve completed many different projects that fundraise for various organizations like Safe in Austin Animal Rescue and the American Diabetes Foundation. One of my favorite projects is the Flag-a-Yard fundraiser. For an annual donation, we place a flag in the yards of our community members on five major holidays. We spent weeks planning, purchasing all of the flag and equipment and spreading the word around town. I enjoyed getting the flags ready to be placed, driving around the neighborhood to place them and pick them up and seeing how much we were able to give back. We also participate in National Night Out and The Lions Club Charity Golf Tournament. Knowing that our efforts could help our community gave me a huge sense of pride and accomplishment. Another project that stands out is our neighborhood cleanup days. We all work together to pick up trash around the entire community and park. It is hard work, but seeing the neighborhood look so clean and beautiful after our efforts made it all worth it. This experience taught me that even small acts of kindness, like picking up litter, can have a big impact on the spaces we share. We also volunteer at holiday events, like the July 4th Fest, Santa in the Village and Halloween Fest, where we have booths for the kids in the neighborhood. We also work at the Concert in the Village, which is a fundraiser for college scholarship. We serve dinner and dessert to attendees. We also fill and hide eggs for the kids at our park during Easter. These projects show me how important it is to think about others during the holidays. Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces when they received gifts was unforgettable. In overcoming challenges of living with disability, I’ve also discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership (PALS) program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and completing other community service projects, I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. They have also shown me that I am capable of making a difference, no matter my challenges. I’ve learned to work with others, be responsible, and contribute to my community, which is something I’ll carry with me after graduation.

My name is Kason Erwin, and I am applying for the F.E. Foundation Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college sports a reality. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as a college equipment manager. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and other community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have already accepted early admission to the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. It also will help show other students with disabilities that you can attend postsecondary education. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

My name is Kason Erwin, and I am applying for the Krewe de HOU Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college sports a reality. My career plan is to start as a student manager for a college football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as a college equipment manager. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy, mentorship, and community service. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. Being part of the Point Venture Leo Club has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my high school years. I’ve had the chance to work with friends on meaningful community service projects that have taught me a lot about teamwork, responsibility, and helping others. Throughout my time in the club, we’ve completed many different projects that fundraise for various organizations like Safe in Austin Animal Rescue and the American Diabetes Foundation. One of my favorite projects is the Flag-a-Yard fundraiser. For an annual donation, we place a flag in the yards of our community members on five major holidays. We spent weeks planning, purchasing all of the flag and equipment and spreading the word around town. I enjoyed getting the flags ready to be placed, driving around the neighborhood to place them and pick them up and seeing how much we were able to give back. We also participate in National Night Out and The Lions Club Charity Golf Tournament. Knowing that our efforts could help our community gave me a huge sense of pride and accomplishment. Another project that stands out is our neighborhood cleanup days. We all work together to pick up trash around the entire community and park. It is hard work, but seeing the neighborhood look so clean and beautiful after our efforts made it all worth it. This experience taught me that even small acts of kindness, like picking up litter, can have a big impact on the spaces we share. We also volunteer at holiday events, like the July 4th Fest, Easter in the Village, Santa in the Village and Halloween Fest, where we have booths for the kids in the neighborhood. These projects show me how important it is to think about others during the holidays. Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces when they received gifts was unforgettable. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example.

My name is Kason Erwin, and I am applying for the Dylan's Journey Memorial Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college sports a reality. I plan to focus my studies on Sports Management. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as a college equipment manager. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and other community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have already accepted early admission to the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

My name is Kason Erwin, and I am applying for the Educational Scholarship for the Physically Disabled to help make my dream of working in college sports a reality. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as a college equipment manager. Living with an intellectual disability and physically disabilities of low hearing and low vision have certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and other community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have already accepted early admission to the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.

My name is Kason Erwin, and I am applying for the Joieful Connections Scholarship to help make my dream of working in college sports a reality. My career plan is to start as a student manager for the Arkansas Razorback football team while working in the equipment room, and then, after graduating, pursue a full-time position as a college equipment manager. My college academic studies will focus on Sports Management. Living with an intellectual disability has certainly brought its challenges, but it has also shaped me into a stronger and more resilient person. There were moments when learning took longer or I faced barriers others didn’t, but through each obstacle, I learned the power of perseverance. These experiences taught me the importance of hard work, patience, and never giving up on my goals. Facing these challenges head-on has not only helped me grow personally but also prepared me for the future. I’ve come to understand that these aspects of my life don’t define me, but they have made me more determined to succeed. In overcoming these challenges, I’ve discovered a passion for advocacy and mentorship. I know how important it is to have someone who understands the journey, and I want to be that person for others. By sharing my story and experiences, I aim to help others see that having a disability is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow stronger. As part of the Peer Assistance and Leadership program, I mentor elementary students with disabilities, teaching them important life skills. Through PALS, being a Point Venture Leo (Young Lions Club) and other community service projects I’ve learned the value of giving back. Serving others and making a difference in my community has shaped me into a leader who leads by example. One of my proudest accomplishments is being chosen as a Youth Ambassador for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD). I serve as co-lead of this program, where I’ve developed and presented a project promoting inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. I’ve already presented at several conferences and hope to continue spreading awareness at future events. Through advocating for inclusive education, I hope to inspire others to pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they face. I’m very active in my high school community, where I’ve been the manager for our football and basketball team and I participate in Special Olympics. I believe I should be chosen for this scholarship because of my drive to succeed and my commitment to improving not only my life but the lives of others with disabilities. I have already accepted early admission to the EMPOWER program at the University of Arkansas. This scholarship will allow me to attend college and pursue my dream career in sports management. College will give me the opportunity to gain the skills and experience I need to become independent and financially secure. I have the heart and determination to overcome challenges and prove that having an intellectual disability does not limit one's ability to succeed.