The 2026 scholarship season is now open at the Charlotte Community Foundation, creating opportunities for local residents to pursue higher education. The program supports a wide range of students, from working adults to traditional students, and includes funding for certificate and trade programs through graduate-level study.
Applicants have until 4:59 p.m. December 31, 2025, to apply online at charlottecf.org/scholarships. One application covers all available awards. Scholarships range from $1,000 to $6,000, and a total of $263,000 will be distributed for the 2026–27 academic year.
A significant portion of the scholarships is designated for working adults. CCF leaders say this focus supports Charlotte County’s economic development by helping residents upgrade their skills for the changing job market.
CCF Board Member Deelynn Bennett, a 40-year veteran of Charlotte County Public Schools, chairs the Scholarship Committee and works alongside CCF Scholarship Coordinator Carolyn Gorton. Nearly half of all scholarships support health care studies, and CCF is seeking additional volunteer reviewers with health care experience. Interested community members can email scholarships@charlottecf.org. Volunteer service begins in mid-January 2026.
Scholarships Honor Community Donors
Many scholarship funds honor local residents. The largest is the Brooks Scholarships Fund, established in memory of Betty Conley Brooks and Robert Charles Brooks. It provides 30 awards to students pursuing technical certificates, two-year degrees, and four-year university degrees.
The CCF Scholarship Fund for Charlotte County: Supporting Future Local Leaders Like Leo Wotitzky serves as the foundation’s general scholarship fund. It accepts gifts of any amount to expand support for Charlotte County Public Schools graduates who demonstrate hard work, service, and commitment to the community, reflecting the leadership of CCF’s founding member and first chairman.
More information about applications and giving opportunities is available at charlottecf.org, including details on contributing to “The CCF Scholarship Fund: Supporting Future Leaders for Charlotte County like Leo Wotitzky.”
The Charlotte Community Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to improving quality of life in Charlotte County. Supported by volunteers and a small professional staff, the foundation connects donors, community needs, and long-term charitable funds. Now under new leadership, CCF continues its mission to foster philanthropy across Charlotte County to strengthen the community for generations.
