Empowering lives together
Helping Resilient Students Thrive
The Axel F. Hoch Legacy Scholarship (AHFLS) is a new program that offers a hand up to Bend-La Pine students who have overcome significant life challenges, providing highly flexible financial support to help them graduate from college or trade school without debt.
AFHLS Scholarship
Welcome to the AFHLS Scholarship Program
At AFHLS, we’re committed to making a difference for Bend-La Pine students who deserve a hand up, not just a handout. Our scholarship is specifically designed to support resilient young people who have overcome significant hardships and challenges — whether it’s dealing with abuse, neglect, poverty, health issues, or homelessness. AFHLS is not about academic or athletic achievements; it’s about recognizing strength, perseverance, and the drive to succeed.
Our Unique Approach
Flexibility and Empowerment
AFHLS is a highly flexible scholarship that meets students where they are. Our recipients have the freedom to use their funds for essentials like tuition/fees, housing, food, books, equipment, or even a laptop. Whether they’re attending a two- or four-year college, trade school, or community college within Oregon, AFHLS gives them the opportunity to dream big and pursue the education path that suits them best.
A Path to Debt-Free Graduation
Unlike traditional scholarships, AFHLS operates as a “top-off” grant. This means students are required to apply for as much financial assistance as they can (and we expect a contribution from parents if they can afford it). We calculate the total expense of the school of their choice, deduct all the aid they are bringing to the table, and AFHLS takes care of the gap!
Financial Efficiency and Collaboration
AFHLS funds are distributed thoughtfully, based on each student’s specific needs. Because our recipients actively seek out other forms of financial aid — from Pell Grants to OR Promise plus aid from the school of their choice — AFHLS support complements these sources, resulting in a financially efficient program. In our first year, this collaboration meant that for every dollar AFHLS awarded, students brought in four dollars from other sources!
A Chance to Pay It Forward
One of the unique aspects of AFHLS is that it empowers students to help their peers. As recipients secure more outside scholarship aid, their need for AFHLS funding decreases, which allows us to extend our support to even more deserving students. It’s a rare and rewarding opportunity for our young scholars to contribute directly to the success of others in their community.
Guidance and Support Through Mentorship
At AFHLS, we believe that support goes beyond just finances. Each of our students is paired with a dedicated mentor who provides guidance, encouragement, and a reliable resource through the ups and downs of their educational journey. For many of our scholars, who are often first-generation college students, this mentorship is invaluable.
Empower. Support. Transform.
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