Scholarship Organization in Arvada, CO

Founded on Community. Driven by Purpose

Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth (AWRSAY) is an community driven organization supporting students in Arvada, Edgewater or Wheat Ridge. Founded in 2001 by Bill Johnson, Duane Youse and Diane Hegeman, three individuals who shared a vision of recognizing and supporting young people who had demonstrated extraordinary resilience in the face of adversity. They also shared the belief that it takes a village to raise a child. So, they partnered together to create a scholarship initiative. Since 2002, we’ve grown into a community-wide initiative comprised of individuals and organizations who believe in investing in the next generation of students.

Our Mission

Our mission is to recognize and uplift promising young students who’ve persevered through challenges. Despite these challenges, the students to whom we award scholarships and personal development awards demonstrate strength, determination, and a desire to continue their education well after high school. Our contributions to their future aren’t just financial. They are also meant to facilitate ongoing recognition, educational, and leadership opportunities for Arvada, Edgewater or Wheat Ridge youth who have overcome adversity.

What We’ve Achieved

488

Students awarded with scholarships to Red Rocks Community College.

2,095

Students recognized for their resilience, determination, and commitment to their future.

Together We Can Make a Difference

The work that AWRSAY does for students is only possible through the community members and leaders who partner with us. Community is the key to our success. We partner with local service clubs, teachers, counselors, public officials and local community members to support students. And we’ve worked with many individual teachers, counselors, public officials, and local businesses to improve the lives of students. If you’re interested in getting involved, please reach out to us. Together, we can continue recognizing resilience, celebrating achievement, and investing in the future of our community, one student at a time.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

AWRSAY is powered by people who believe every student deserves encouragement, opportunity, and a community that believes in them.