Service Above Self Scholarship

Review the resources on this page so that you can successfully understand the intent of the program and requirements for the scholarship.

"Service Above Self” is the core value that links all Rotarians

Do you exemplify the Rotary spirit?

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.

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.


This scholarship is for juniors and seniors attending high schools in Irvine that carry out impactful acts of Service Above Self. If you have an idea to strengthen our community and the commitment to plan, organize, and see it through to completion, keep reading.

How much is the scholarship and what can I use it for?

Scholarship winners will receive up to $5,000. Program funds are split between contest winners at local Irvine high schools. Scholarship amounts are based on the merit of ideas and available funding.

How do I apply?

Follow these simple steps.

The 2021-22 application cycle is now closed.

Applications for 2023 will be accepted starting in January 2023. Continue reading to prepare for next year.

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Identify a service project

Service 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.

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Get parental consent

Parental Consent

If you are under 18, you’ll need parental consents to participate in this opportunity.

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Share your idea and plan it out

Share Your Idea

Tell others about your idea. Think about how you can best impact our community. Consider resources, time, budget, and practicality. Oh, and make sure to have some fun too.

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Apply for scholarship

Application

Time for you to apply — The Rotary Club of Irvine funds the most impactful, well-planned projects. It’s time for you to share with us your scholarship winning idea.

What is an example of a major issue facing our community?

Our country and our community have witnessed challenges that it has never experienced before. COVID19, wildfires, layoffs, changes in farming, and business closures are all forces that have caused many thriving families to face realities and experiences both new and frightening. Consider helping us find a solution to address some aspect of the resulting homelessness with consideration of Rotary’s Six Areas of Focus.

Rotary’s Six Areas of Focus

Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision. For more than 115 years, Rotary’s people of action have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end.

Now…it’s your turn.

Irvine Rotary Areas of Focus Clean Water Icon

Clean Water & Sanitation

We support local solutions to bring clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to more people every day. Project ideas: beach/ocean clean-ups, water awareness and conservation, hand-washing/sanitation.

Irvine Rotary Areas of Focus Fighting Disease Icon

Preventing and treating disease

We educate and equip communities to stop the spread of life-threatening diseases like polio, HIV/AIDS, and malaria. Project ideas: Blankets for cancer patients, COVID prevention, blood drives.

Irvine Rotary Areas of Focus Mothers and Children Icon

Saving mothers & children

We expand access to quality care, so mothers and their children can live and grow stronger. Project ideas: meal packaging, nutrition awareness, stopping domestic violence, day-long clinic for dental/vision.

Irvine Rotary Areas of Focus Education Literacy Icon

Improving education & literacy

Rotary aims to strengthen access to basic education and increases literacy for children and adults. Project ideas: book collection/distribution, poetry exhibits, literacy resources for refugees/prisons/other populations.

Irvine Rotary Areas of Focus Developing Economies Icon

Growing local economies

We enhance economies by lifting up everyone in our community, create opportunities for decent and productive work for young and old. Project ideas: vocational training, financial literacy, reducing homelessness.

Irvine Rotary Areas of Focus Peace Icon

Building peace & resolving conflict

Rotary encourages conversations to foster understanding within and across cultures. Project ideas: Mediating conflict, anti-bullying, reducing discrimination, building goodwill between conflicting groups/cultures.

Irvine Rotary in the Community

Community Service Projects

How To Get Involved

Share & Connect
Share & Connect
Connect your family, friends, and organization with Irvine Rotary projects and events.
Volunteer
Volunteer
Reach out to volunteer at a Rotary Club of Irvine service project or fundraiser.
Contribute
Contribute
Search for projects that match your passions and donate to causes you love.
Become a Rotarian
Become a Rotarian
Join leaders to take action to create lasting change in Irvine and around the world.