The responder scholarship

The Responder Scholarship is our way of supporting the people who choose careers in any emergency services–related field. Whether your calling is in EMS, firefighting, law enforcement, dispatch, emergency management, public health preparedness, or another area of public safety, our mission is to help you gain the education and training needed to protect and serve your community. This annual scholarship is designed to invest directly in the next generation of responders, because we know that when they succeed, our communities are safer and stronger.

The Responder Scholarship provides a $500 award to one or two individuals each year, and the funds can be used toward tuition, certification courses, training materials, or professional development in any emergency services discipline. Applicants must be at least sixteen years old and either currently enrolled in, accepted to, or planning to enroll in a recognized training program, college degree program, or professional certification related to emergency services. Above all, applicants should be able to demonstrate a clear commitment to serving their communities through public safety or disaster response work.

To apply, candidates should complete the scholarship application form, write a 500–750 word personal statement outlining their career goals and dedication to the field, and submit one letter of recommendation from an instructor, supervisor, or community leader. Proof of enrollment or acceptance into an eligible program is also required. The personal statement should highlight the applicant’s experience or motivation for pursuing a career in emergency services, explain how the scholarship will support their goals, and share at least one example of a time they made a difference in someone’s safety or well-being.

Applications will be reviewed by the DisasterDesk Scholarship Committee, with recipients selected based on their demonstrated commitment to public safety, leadership potential, and the clarity of their career goals. We encourage anyone who is passionate about protecting their community to apply. By providing this scholarship, we aim to make a tangible difference in the careers of those who keep our communities safe. Together, we can ensure that the next generation of responders has the tools, training, and resources they need to step confidently into the field.

The DisasterDesk Responder Scholarship accepts applications all year long, giving you two chances to win each year. Send in your application at any time, and it will be reviewed for the next award cycle. To be considered for the spring award, submit your application by May 31, with winners announced on June 15. For the fall award, submit by November 15, with winners announced on December 1. If your application arrives after one of these deadlines, it will automatically roll over to be considered in the next cycle.