THE YOUNG SCHOLARS FUND
2026 Young Scholars Fund Applications Are Now Closed.
We appreciate your interest and encourage you to check our website
and follow our social media channels for future scholarship opportunities and updates.
What is the GFWC Young Scholars Fund?
The GFWC Young Scholars Fund is built to support young mothers in college with the kind of steady backup that helps you stay enrolled and finish strong. Scholars receive scholarship support and are paired with a dedicated mentor who meets with them one-on-one, offering encouragement, practical guidance, and accountability through graduation.
Throughout the year, Scholars participate in mentorship check-ins and program touchpoints focused on academic progress, goal-setting, and preparing for life after college. The program is designed to ease real-life pressures that can disrupt a semester, so moms are not forced to choose between school and essentials. Support may include help with tuition and other critical needs, including childcare, diapers, food, and other necessities.
GFWC Founder, Shawn Yancy created the Young Scholars Fund because she’s lived this journey. She earned her college degree as a young mom, balancing classes, motherhood, and real-life expenses. She finished classes a semester early and graduated on time because she had an amazing support system. Her parents stepped in with tuition, diapers, and formula, and constant encouragement.
“I was blessed to have a support system, and many student-parents do not. That’s why I created the Young Scholars Fund, to help student-parents stay in school, feel supported, pursue their dreams, and build a stronger future for their families.”
– Shawn Yancy, Founder, The Giving Foundation for Women & Children
We Currently Serve Young Scholars in:
📍 The Washington, DC metro region (DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia, within 50 miles of metro DC)
📍 Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana
What Do GFWC Young Scholars Receive?
Up to $1,500 per year for Scholars attending a 2-year college and up to $2,500 per year for Scholars attending a 4-year college
A dedicated mentor meets with you one-on-one through graduation, offering steady guidance, encouragement, and accountability.
When available, support may include childcare, diapers, groceries, transportation, and other urgent needs that can throw a semester off course.
Regular touchpoints to help you stay on track, problem-solve challenges, and connect to resources.
Support with career goals, internship planning, and preparing for the transition from campus to career.
Skill-building sessions and family-friendly moments that build confidence, connection, and stability.
Who is eligible for the GFWC Young Scholars Fund?
To apply for the GFWC Young Scholars Fund, you must meet the requirements below. For eligibility questions, please email: info@TheGFWC.org
Young Mothers
Be a young mother ages 18 – 25 at the time of application and the primary caregiver of at least one dependent child. You must be actively involved in your child’s life.
Service Area
Live within 50 miles of metro DC, or be eligible through our Indiana service area (Indianapolis, Indiana and Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana).
Accredited College Enrollment
Be enrolled in an accredited college or university, including 2-year colleges, and working toward an undergraduate or associate degree or eligible credential.
Minimum College Progress
Have completed at least 12 academic credit hours at the time you apply.
Minimum Credits During the Award Year
Be taking or planning to take at least 6 credits each semester during the award year.
Proof of Financial Need
Provide proof of financial need, such as a FAFSA Submission Summary or a financial aid award letter.
If you have questions about eligibility, email: info@TheGFWC.org
What is required of GFWC Young Scholars?
The Young Scholars Fund is built on support and accountability. If selected, Young Scholars agree to the commitments below.
🎓 Mentorship participation (required): Meet with your mentor at least once a month and stay in touch regularly between meetings.
🎓 Responsive communication: Reply to messages from GFWC volunteers, staff and mentors within 48 hours so we can support you quickly when schedules shift or questions come up.
🎓 Academic updates: Submit midterm and final grades each semester, along with proof of enrollment as requested.
🎓 Enrollment progress: Complete at least 6 credits each semester toward your degree and maintain a 2.7 cumulative GPA.
🎓 Program participation: Take part in required check-ins and any Scholar gatherings connected to the program calendar.
We Currently Serve Young Scholars in:
📍 The Washington, DC metro region (DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia, within 50 miles of metro DC)
📍 Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana