Panda Cares Scholars Program
The Panda Cares Scholars Program celebrates and supports outstanding graduating senior Club members across the Boys & Girls Clubs Movement. Beginning with the 2026 application cycle, the program offers three scholarship opportunities: a $5,000 scholarship for Club members who are named their organization or Club site Youth of the Year; a $2,500 scholarship open to all graduating senior Club members; and the newly introduced Panda Cares Great Futures Scholarship, awarding $25,000 to 15 exceptional seniors who meet the eligibility criteria. Together, these scholarships reflect the Panda Cares Foundation’s long-standing investment in empowering Club youth and helping ensure they have the financial resources needed to continue their academic journey after high school.
Are You a Club Member Interested in Becoming a Panda Cares Scholar?
Apply now for the opportunity to receive a $25,000, $5,000 or $2,500 college scholarship as a part of the Panda Scholars Program. The scholarship is open to all current senior Club members graduating high school in 2026. All applicants must be active Club members in good standing. Applications close on April 10, 2026.
Holden
Attending: University of Arkansas
Major: Organizational Management and Leadership
Dream Job: CEO of Boys & Girls Club of America or a late night talk show host
“This scholarship will allow me to go to the college of my dreams without having to worry about the extra costs that may come with it.”
Ximena
Attending: Columbia University
Major: Law
Dream Job: Lawyer
“This scholarship has allowed me to commit to Columbia University where I will pursue a degree in law.”
Arya
Attending: Cal Poly Pomona
Major: Social Work
Dream Job: Case manager for a non-profit that focuses on youth
“The scholarship money has made it possible for me to engage in the full college experience. Thank you Panda for helping me find a home.”
Enrique
Attending: University of Florida
Major: Elementary Education
Dream Job: Teacher
“Thanks to supporters like Panda, I can keep chasing my passions and creating an impact on my community.”
Tiana
Attending: Endicott College
Major: Nursing
Dream Job: Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
“My college experience has been full of fun, growth, and memories that will last me a lifetime, all thanks to my Panda scholarship that allows me to pay for school and enjoy my freshman year to the fullest extent!”
Agrin
Attending: University of California
Major: International Development Studies and Political Science
Dream Job: International Law or a government role
“Knowing that my story had been heard, empathized with, and understood, and that I had Panda Cares’ support in my corner, enabled me to commit and step into my higher education, setting the foundation for me to be able to bloom.”
Isaac
Attending: Oklahoma State University
Major: Business Management
Dream Job: Intellectual Property Lawyer
“I am deeply grateful for this scholarship because it brings me one step closer to my goals. I plan to use this opportunity to continue growing as a leader, pursue my education, and create opportunities that uplift others in my community.”
Mariangely
Attending: Auburn University
Major: Public Policy
Dream Job: Public Policy Advocate
“This scholarship empowers me to continue pursuing my dream of becoming a public policy advocate, using my voice to uplift youth who feel unheard. I hope to lead by example and show that with hard work, determination, and purpose, you can become whoever you aspire to be.”
Opening the Door to Great Futures
Through partnerships like the Panda Cares Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs support students in planning for life after school, including helping with college applications, financial aid and career exploration. 2-in-3 Club high school seniors have explored career options, compared to 1-in-4 of their peers nationally.1
EXPLORE ACADEMIC SUCCESS PROGRAMS AT BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS
1Post-graduation readiness report – YouScience (2022); BGCA Member Survey (2024)
