Futures Full Of Promise

Grace Place for Children and Families’ scholarship program continues to open doors for students ready to take the next step. Every year, Grace Place helps remove barriers to higher education, awarding full-ride scholarships and supporting even more students in securing additional opportunities. Many of these scholars are the first in their families to graduate high school or attend college, overcoming financial and educational challenges with determination and resilience. These scholarships go far beyond tuition, providing a path forward for students and their families, strengthening the local community, and creating lasting impact for generations to come.

Ashley – Florida Gulf Coast University

Ashley has been part of Grace Place since the age of four, growing up in Naples alongside the program while her two younger sisters now attend and her mother recently graduated from its English classes. She is actively involved in her school community through Culinary Club, Women’s Empowerment, and the National Honor Society. Ashley is most proud of passing all her AICE and AP classes and earning a full-ride scholarship. After graduation, she plans to major in marketing and minor in political science, with a long-term vision of creating impactful legislation and opening a youth home for adolescents. She encourages incoming students to stand out, stay true to their character, and always exceed expectations.

Daniel – Florida Gulf Coast University

Daniel first connected with Grace Place after his school counselor recommended it as a volunteer opportunity, and it quickly became a meaningful part of his life in the Golden Gate community. From his very first days, he was struck by the welcoming environment, forming early connections while mentoring students and supporting the after-school program. Through his involvement, Daniel gained a renewed sense of purpose, developing responsibility,, and a deeper appreciation for community. Grace Place also played a pivotal role in shaping his academic and career path, inspiring him to pursue his passion for film and work toward earning scholarship opportunities. After high school, Daniel plans to attend FGCU before transferring to UCF to major in film, driven by a desire to make an impact through his work.

Katerina – University of Central Florida

Katerina enrolled at Grace Place in October 2025 and quickly became an active member of the community, later joined by her younger brother that December. A Naples native, she balances academics with athletics, participating in Cross Country and Track and Field while also dedicating time to volunteering at local organizations and community events. She is especially proud of her strong academic performance, including earning a 4 in AP U.S. History and high marks across multiple AICE courses. Katerina encourages new students to take full advantage of every opportunity at Grace Place and to never hesitate to ask for support. After graduation, she plans to attend Florida SouthWestern State College before transferring to the University of Central Florida to pursue her passion for art while beginning her journey in commissioned work.

Emily – University of South Florida

Emily’s journey with Grace Place began at just three years old when she attended alongside her mother in parenting classes, later returning for the after-school program during high school, where her connection to the organization deepened. A Naples native with proud Mexican roots, Emily has been actively involved in her school and community, including Biology Club, the NCH VolunTeen program, and clinical training through her pharmacy technician program. She is most proud of earning the Grace Place Scholarship and is committed to building a future in healthcare. After graduation, Emily plans to become a certified Pharmacy Technician, attend the University of South Florida to major in Biomedical Sciences, and ultimately pursue pharmacy school. Emily’s advice to future students: “Make the most of every opportunity, they won’t all come around twice.”

Thanks to the support of generous donors and community partners, Grace Place is not only changing lives but also shaping the future of Southwest Florida. Scholarships like the Opportunity Scholarship and L. Maynard Oss Scholarship, funded annually by dedicated donors, help make this life-changing work possible. These awards continue to remove financial barriers for students, giving them the chance to pursue higher education and brighter futures.