Scholarships

Supporting local students — Winston-Salem, NC

Every walk we hold helps fund college scholarships for local high school seniors — one way we turn a single night of community into lasting support for the next generation.

Stroll Into Light community event

2027 Student Scholarship Program

"Tipping the balance between hope and despair."

Stroll Into Light brings students, families, and our community together to increase mental health awareness, encourage connection, reduce stigma, and remind one another that no one has to walk through life's challenges alone.

Through the generosity of our walkers, sponsors, and community partners, Stroll Into Light will award $500 scholarships to 2–4 graduating seniors in 2027.

$500Per scholarship
2–4Scholarships awarded in 2027

Two paths to a scholarship

Every graduating senior can apply either — or both — ways.

Create — T-Shirt Design Scholarship

One $500 scholarship will be awarded to the student whose original design is selected for the 2026 Stroll Into Light T-shirt. The winning design will help share the Stroll Into Light message of hope, connection, awareness, and community.

Eligible applicants: WSFCS graduating seniors planning to attend a 2- or 4-year college.

How to enter:

After submission, you'll receive further information. A winner will be announced prior to the walk on November 15 and will receive a $500 scholarship toward future educational needs.

Due: October 2, 2026

Reflect — Mental Health Awareness Scholarship

Additional $500 scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors based on their application, involvement, and a short essay reflecting on the importance of mental health awareness.

Eligible applicants: Forsyth County graduating seniors in good standing planning to attend a 2- or 4-year college or university.

How to apply:

No personal mental health diagnosis or history is required to apply.

Eligibility & submission

What's required, and how to get your application in.

  • EligibilityGraduating senior at a Forsyth County, NC high school, in good standing, planning to attend a 2- or 4-year college or university
  • DeadlineJanuary 15, 2027
  • NotificationRecipients notified by March 1, 2027
  • Submit toakoonin@performancedrivenpt.com

What the Reflect essay looks for

A 250–500 word response to: what does mental health awareness mean to you, and how has it shaped how you care for yourself, support others, or approach challenges?

  • Your own voice and perspective — no particular story or experience is required
  • No obligation to disclose private medical or mental health information
  • School & community involvement, and a short reflection on your high school experience
  • A school counselor's verification that you're a graduating senior in good standing