Jefferson Dollars For Scholars

College Scholarships: Each year, JDFS awards 130+ college scholarships to Jefferson Parish public high school seniors, most of whom are first -generation college attendees. Recipients are currently enrolled in 35 colleges nationwide, most in Louisiana, and graduates are working all over the world. Since 2005, JDFS has provided its college scholarship recipients with refurbished computers. To date, Jefferson Dollars for Scholars has awarded 2,373 college scholarships.

Summer Academic Enrichment: JDFS awards summer academic enrichment camp scholarships to public school students in grades K-8, enabling students to participate in enriching summer camp experiences that foster intellectual curiosity. The academic enrichment awards introduce young students to the scholarship concept and provide an early push for post-secondary education. To date, JDFS has awarded 2,456 Summer Enrichment Scholarships.

ACT Test Preparation: JDFS’ “To the TOPS” program helps students gain eligibility for TOPS and has earned over $3.5 million in additional TOPS dollars for Jefferson Parish Public School (JPPS) students. Seniors who participate in “To the TOPS” classes and earn TOPS funding are also eligible to receive laptops.

PSAT Test Preparation: Because of the success of the "To the TOPS" program, JDFS started preparing students for the PSAT which determines National Merit Scholarship qualification. This is a national college scholarship program only awarded to the top 1% of students nationwide. Since JDFS' involvement, there has been over 22 National Merit semifinalists in JPPS high schools! That's more than the entire history of JPPS!

Alumni Network/Support Program: With your help, JDFS is creating mentorship/networking opportunities between our high school seniors, college alums and the JDFS board members and sponsors.

Laptop Giveaway: Provides refurbished laptops to all college recipients so everyone starts college technologically prepared