For DonorsFor Applicants

Ella's Gift

Funded by
$2,000
1 winner$2,000
Open
Application Deadline
Mar 21, 2025
Winners Announced
Apr 21, 2025
Education Level
Any
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school, trade school, undergraduate, or graduate student
Gender:
Female-identifying
Background:
Experience with mental health issues and/or substance abuse challenges

Ella was a girl with a strong will and an internal drive for competition. From her attitude of “I do it myself” in her toddler years, to working her tail off to graduate high school early, Ella did not stop competing.

She was a talented musician, artist, and athlete with the biggest heart. She loved fiercely, competed fiercely, and battled hard through so many challenges thrown her way, including depression, addiction, rehab, and even a stroke at age seventeen. Through it all, she was determined to be better and do better.

After high school graduation, Ella finished a year of community college and was excited to start classes at Georgia College and State University in the fall of 2024. She worked hard for sobriety and wanted to help her friends and loved ones do the same. Sadly, Ella never got to see the bright future she had envisioned. On July 10, 2024, Ella died in a car accident, leaving this world too soon.

In memory of Ella’s fighting spirit, this scholarship aims to support and empower female students who have faced challenges related to mental health and substance abuse, helping them to pursue and achieve their educational goals.

Any female high school, trade school, undergraduate, or graduate student who has experience with and has overcome mental health issues and/or substance abuse challenges may apply for this scholarship opportunity.

To apply, tell us about your experiences with mental health and substance abuse, your personal growth, your academic goals, and your plans for continuing in your recovery.

Selection Criteria:
Resilience, Personal Growth, Academic Growth, Potential
Published September 30, 2024
Essay Topic

Please share a personal statement of 500-800 words outlining your experiences with mental health and substance abuse, personal growth, and educational goals. Additionally, share your plan for continuing to manage recovery.

500–800 words

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Mar 21, 2025. Winners will be announced on Apr 21, 2025.