Folds of Honor to Offer Scholarships to Families of First Responders
Anthem_Full_Length from Folds of Honor on Vimeo.
Folds of Honor has been providing life-changing scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled U.S. service members since 2007. The foundation has recently expanded its mission to America’s first responders including police, fire, EMTs, and paramedics.
There are over 2 million first responders in the U.S.; made up of 900,000 law enforcement officers, 1,064,600 firefighter personnel, and 219,000 full-time EMTs and paramedics. They respond to approximately 240 million calls made to 9-1-1 each year.
“This move reflects our purpose to meet sacrifice with hope. The decision to launch our first responder scholarships is in reverence to those who paid the ultimate price on September 11th, 2001. The following day was a defining moment in our history, as Americans responded to tragedy by putting differences aside, rallying together, and standing as one. It is our hope that the expanded Folds of Honor mission will inspire unity once again. Without question, it will let first responders and their families know that they are not alone.” – Folds of Honor Founder and CEO, Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney
Mission Video 3.0_H.264 from Folds of Honor on Vimeo.
The story of Folds of Honor began when Rooney was on a flight home from his second tour of duty in Iraq. As his flight landed, the pilot announced they carried the remains of Corporal Brock Bucklin on board. Rooney watched through the window as Bucklin’s twin brother walked somberly alongside the flag-covered casket to meet his family on the tarmac. Among them was the deceased Corporal’s young son. At that moment, Rooney truly understood the meaning of the term “freedom isn’t free”.
Since that night, Rooney has committed his life – through the Folds of Honor – to provide scholarships to spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service members. From its inception in 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded nearly 44,000 scholarships totaling nearly $200 million. The scholarship recipients are as diverse as the place they call home. Minority recipients represent 41% of all scholarships awarded.
Apply for a Scholarship
This is the first year these scholarships are open for first responder families. For those interested in a scholarship, the application window is open between February 1 and March 31 each year. All applications must be completed and submitted using the online application portal.
Support American Hero Families
Helping the dependents of American heroes pursue their educational dreams is possible only with the generosity of corporations and everyday citizens. If you would like to support our nation's military and first responder families, you can become a Squadron member by joining thousands of committed American patriots who pledge $13 every month.
The Folds of Honor needs the help of corporate partners for this mission to be successful. The expansion into America’s first responders creates a powerful opportunity for new corporate partners to show their community where their values lie. For those corporations interested in partnering, they should contact the foundation for more information.
