CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
Students have a unique opportunity to earn a scholarship while supporting a cause that changes lives: organ, eye and tissue donation.
The Kentucky Association of Circuit Court Clerks has launched a scholarship program aimed at high school and college students who want to advocate for donation and inspire others to register as donors.
“Today’s students are tomorrow’s community leaders,” said Martin County Circuit Clerk Denise Gauze. “We are thrilled to introduce this scholarship opportunity for students who are passionate about helping others and advocating for the life-saving mission of donation.”
Gauze said the program prioritizes creativity and inclusivity over traditional academic benchmarks, making it accessible to all students.
“This scholarship is unique because it doesn’t require a high GPA or extensive extracurricular involvement,” remarked Gauze. “It’s inclusive and achievable for everyone, including those facing personal or family health challenges.”
The ripple effect of this program will extend beyond scholarship recipients. By engaging their communities and peers, students will play an essential role in expanding donor registration and bringing hope to families across Kentucky.
Students will also gain hands-on experience in public speaking, marketing, graphic design and media outreach, all while spreading awareness.
Students can submit projects in various forms, such as:
• Writing and sharing a song or video about donation on social media.
• Crafting a persuasive speech for their school about the importance of registering as a donor.
• Designing a cafeteria display to educate peers about donation and transplantation facts.
Since 1992, the Kentucky Association of Circuit Court Clerks has been a driving force behind organ donation initiatives fueled by deeply personal experiences. One clerk’s loss of a loved one waiting for a heart transplant, along with other firsthand connections to the cause, inspired them to take action.
Their advocacy led to groundbreaking legislation allowing Kentuckians to donate a dollar to organ donation efforts when obtaining a driver’s license. Over the years, these contributions have raised more than $20 million, registered over 2 million donors, and provided hope to the 100,000 Americans waiting for life-saving transplants.
Even as the state transitioned driver’s licensing responsibilities to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet in 2020, the circuit clerks have remained steadfast in their commitment to organ donation education.
“The Circuit Clerks have been unwavering supporters of organ donation,” said Shelley Snyder, executive director of Donate Life Kentucky Trust. “The Endowment Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of the Circuit Clerks of Kentucky, recognizing their decades of dedication to helping those in need of life-saving transplants and supporting Kentucky families.”
Applications are due April 7.
Students can request a toolkit for guidance. Learn more and apply at donatelifeky.org/community-outreach/.
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Martin Circuit Clerk Denise Gauze