Our Programs
Empowering youth and strengthening communities through education and opportunity
Scholarship Program
Investing in Academic Excellence
The Henson Benson Foundation Scholarship Program is our flagship initiative, providing financial assistance to deserving students pursuing higher education. Since our founding, we have awarded over 500 scholarships, helping students achieve their academic dreams.
Who Can Apply:
- High school seniors planning to attend college or university
- Current college students maintaining academic excellence
- Students demonstrating financial need
- Individuals committed to community service
- Students who embody our values of excellence, integrity, and service
Award Amounts:
Scholarships range from $1,000 to $10,000 per academic year, with opportunities for renewal based on academic performance and continued community involvement.
- January 1: Applications Open
- March 15: Application Deadline
- April - May: Review & Selection Process
- June: Winners Announced
- August: Award Ceremony & Scholarship Disbursement
Selection Criteria
What we look for in scholarship candidates
Academic Achievement
Strong academic record and commitment to educational excellence
Community Service
Demonstrated commitment to giving back and serving others
Leadership
Evidence of leadership qualities and positive influence
Potential
Clear goals and potential to make positive impact
Youth Mentorship Program
Guiding the next generation of leaders
Our mentorship program connects young people with experienced professionals, educators, and community leaders who provide guidance, support, and inspiration.
Program Components:
One-on-One Mentoring
Personalized guidance tailored to individual goals and interests
Group Workshops
Interactive sessions on leadership, career planning, and life skills
Career Exploration
Job shadowing opportunities and exposure to various career paths
Networking Events
Connect with professionals and build valuable relationships
Become a Mentor
Share your experience and expertise with young people who can benefit from your guidance. Mentors commit to:
- Meeting with mentee at least twice per month
- Providing guidance on personal and professional development
- Attending quarterly mentor training sessions
- Participating in program events and celebrations
Join our mentorship program to receive guidance from experienced professionals who can help you:
- Set and achieve personal and academic goals
- Explore career opportunities
- Develop leadership skills
- Build confidence and self-awareness
- Navigate life's challenges
Community Development Programs
Building stronger, more vibrant communities
Free workshops on financial literacy, college preparation, career development, and life skills for community members of all ages.
Programs celebrating and preserving our community's rich cultural heritage through events, oral history projects, and documentation initiatives.
Computer and technology training programs to ensure all community members can access opportunities in our digital world.
Resources and support services for families, including parenting workshops, family counseling referrals, and emergency assistance programs.
Organized volunteer opportunities for residents to give back, including neighborhood beautification, food drives, and community clean-up events.
Collaborative initiatives with schools, businesses, and organizations to expand resources and opportunities available to our community.
Success Stories
Lives transformed through our programs
Receiving the Henson Benson scholarship was life-changing. I'm now a registered nurse giving back to my community, and I credit the foundation for believing in me when I needed it most.
My mentor from the program helped me see possibilities I never imagined. Today, I'm a software engineer at a major tech company and mentor other young people through this same program.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you're seeking support or want to give back, we're here for you.
Contact Us Support Our Programs