Mission Viejo Activities Volunteer Scholarship Program
Scholarship Sponsored by Mission Viejo Activities Commitee
Mission Viejo Activities Committee Volunteer Scholarship
Overview
The Mission Viejo Activities Committee (MVAC) sponsors a scholarship program to recognize graduating high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding character and a strong commitment to volunteer service. The program is administered by MVAC and awards scholarships without consideration of race, ethnicity, religion, or gender. Scholarships are awarded primarily for community service and are issued in $1,000 increments.
Who is eligible
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of the United States.
- Attend a high school located within the Saddleback Valley Unified School District (SVUSD) or Capistrano Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) boundaries.
- Be current high school seniors who will be enrolling for the first time in a full‑time program the fall after graduation at one of the following: an accredited U.S. four‑year college or university, a baccalaureate program at a two‑year college, or a technical/trade school certificate program.
- Have completed at least 150 hours of volunteer service during high school, with at least 25 of those hours performed in Mission Viejo.
- Be able to provide documentation that demonstrates consistent community service hours.
Application requirements and deadline
To apply, submit a completed application form plus:
- An essay addressing your volunteer experience and the meaning of volunteerism to you.
- Two reference letters from individuals familiar with your volunteer work.
All application materials must be received by MVAC by March 15. Applicants are responsible for submitting complete and accurate information; the Scholarship Committee evaluates candidates based on the materials provided. MVAC will verify community service hours based on the documentation you supply. All submissions are treated as confidential and reviewed solely by the Scholarship Committee.
Selection process
Award decisions are made by the Scholarship Committee and take into account:
- Quantity and nature of volunteer service (what you actually did while volunteering)
- Participation in school activities
- Leadership roles and experience
- Educational and personal goals/aspirations
- Two letters of reference that attest to your volunteer involvement
- Interview performance (if interviews are part of the process)
Notification and payment
Scholarship payments are recommended by the Scholarship Committee and authorized by the MVAC Executive Board. MVAC processes the payments, which are distributed in two equal installments (August and December). Checks will be made payable to both the recipient and the educational institution and must be endorsed by both parties. Recipients must inform MVAC of any changes to address, school enrollment, or other pertinent details.
Permitted uses
Scholarship funds may be used for school‑related expenses, including but not limited to tuition, books, supplies, and room and board costs paid through the educational institution.