Young People Who Lift Others.
Two scholarships honoring compassion, growth, and the power of connection.
Why These Scholarships Exist.
At the Ryan Bartel Foundation, we believe that some of the most important impacts in a young person’s life cannot be measured by grades, awards, or achievements alone. It is found in how they show up for others—and how they grow through their own experiences.
Currently endowed by generous board members, our two annual scholarships honor young people who reflect this belief in different but deeply connected ways. Together, they recognize both the power of supporting others and the strength it takes to grow and give back.
Heart Of Humanity Award.
The Heart of Humanity Award honors high school seniors who make a meaningful difference in the life of a peer facing mental or emotional challenges.
This $2,500 scholarship celebrates compassion in action—recognizing young people who offer kindness, acceptance, and support when it matters most.
These students are nominated by others whose lives they have impacted, shining a light on the often unseen moments of care that help young people feel seen, supported, and less alone.
Beacon Of Hope Award.
The Beacon of Hope Award recognizes a young person who has participated in Ryan Bartel Foundation programs and experienced meaningful personal growth in their mental wellbeing.
This $2,500 scholarship honors those who have strengthened their own resilience and chosen to pay it forward by supporting other young people as FORT Ambassadors, peer mentors, or volunteers.
It celebrates transformation—when a young person’s own journey becomes a source of hope for others.
Why We Do This.
These two scholarships reflect the heart of our mission: connection changes everything.
One honors those who lift others up in difficult moments.
The other honors those who turn their own growth into service for others.
Together, they remind us that young people are not only capable of resilience—they are capable of creating it for each other.
By recognizing these stories, we hope to inspire more compassion, more connection, and more young people who feel seen, valued, and supported in their communities.