Do You Exemplify The Rotary Spirit?
We live our lives with the principle of “Service Above Self” and “The Four Way Test” and want to give youth in our community the opportunity to learn these standards in a way that provides help for our community and helps finance collegiate ambitions.
If you have an idea to strengthen our community and the commitment to plan, organize, and see it through to completion, keep reading.
About Irvine Rotary and Our Mission
With more than 35,000 clubs in over 180 countries around the world, Rotary is global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
Irvine Rotary opens the doors for you to make a difference. Whether it’s in Irvine, Orange County, or internationally, Rotary provides both the means and the resources to help.
Service Above Self Scholarship Details
Explore this area to get information for yourself or for the the high school student in your household.
How much is the scholarship and what can I use it for?
Scholarship winners will receive up to $5,000, based upon available funding. The money must be used for educational purposes (college degree program or technical certification).
Program funds are split between contest winners at local Irvine high schools.
What is an example of a major issue facing our community?
Our country and our community are experiencing significant challenges as remnants of COVID19, an inflationary economy, wildfires, layoffs, changes in energy and agricultural policy, and housing scarcity. Many thriving families face realities and experiences both new and frightening. Among the many impacts are food insecurity, homelessness, mental health challenges, an increase in bullying behaviors, and rising public safety concerns.
Help us find a solution to address some of these challenges with consideration of Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus.
What are Rotary's Seven Areas of Focus?
Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision.
For 120 years, Rotary’s ‘People of Action’ have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects in the areas of education and literacy, economic development, peace building, clean water and sanitation, disease prevention, maternal health, and environmental protection.
We are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end.
Now…it’s your turn.
What are the criteria for the project?
The project must be an original one created by the student. It must fit within at least one Area of Focus. It must be facilitated within Orange County and have activities in which Irvine Rotary members can participate.
The project is submitted for review by March 31, 2025, but would be implemented in the 2025-2026 academic year.
How do I apply and when are applications due?
The 2025 application cycle is opening on January 15, 2025.
Applications for 2025-26 funding are due by midnight on March 31, 2025.
Apply by submitting your project essay via email to the address shown at the top of the application materials.
Identify a Project
Think of an impactful ‘hands-on’ project that you can plan, coordinate, which our members can execute locally that has benefits for Irvine and Orange County.
Parental Consent
If you are under 18, you’ll need parental consents to participate in this opportunity. The consent form is available within the application document downloads.
Share & Plan
Tell others about your idea. Leaders don't lead without seeking input and advice from others. Consider resources, time, budget, and practicality and make sure to have some fun too.
Submit Application
Time for you to apply — The Rotary Club of Irvine funds the most impactful, well-planned projects. Share with us your scholarship winning idea by emailing the address at the top of the application.
Ready to get started?
Service Above Self Projects
Irvine Rotary sponosors an annual essay contest for IUSD high school students. Essays propose a service project in the Irvine community. We participate with volunteer support and financial resources to make the winning projects happen.
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards
RYLA is a leadership development program for young people who want to learn new skills, build their confidence, and have fun. We send 8-10 IUSD high school juniors to a weekend-long youth leadership camp every Spring.
Interact Clubs at Local High Schools
Interact clubs bring together young people ages 12-18 to develop leadership skills and learn about the world through service projects and activities. The Interact Club at Irvine High School, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Irvine, is open to all students.
Doing Good in the World
Do you want to do good in the world? Rotary opens the doors for you to make a difference. Whether it’s in Irvine, Orange County or internationally, Rotary provides both the means and the resources to help.
With more than 35,000 clubs in over 180 countries around the world, Rotary is the premier service organization devoted to helping others.
“Service Above Self” is the motto that links all Rotarians.
Special thanks to our community partners and sponsors.
Join these Irvine brands in supporting our community through direct giving, trade, and fundraiser sponsorship and project underwriting.
