See attachments for an application form for the Joseph Elefante, Jr. Memorial Endowment (JEJME) and a donation form, if you are interested
What is the Endowment?
The Joseph Elefante, Jr. Memorial Endowment (JEJME) is a 21st Century Endowment pass-through in the Optimist International Foundation (OIF) and has full nonprofit 501(c)3 status. The endowment moneys are combined and invested with the other funds from OIF and receives annual income payments of 90% of endowments portion of the OIF’s return on its investments with a 5% guaranteed base.
What will the funds do?
The endowment will help continue Joe’s work of helping to bring out the best in kids of the community through scholarships.
Who can apply for the funds?
Any student in the state of Arizona is eligible to apply. We are looking for the kids to whom the funds will make the most difference. This could include a student who wants to go to a vocational school but does not have the money for tools or students who are not in the top of their class but are still in school despite many obstacles.
When will funds be given out?
The actual money raised will stay in the endowment forever, and only the interest made on the funds will provide the scholarships we give out. We gave out our first scholarships in September of 2002. So far, we have given over $22,000 in scholarships to more than 65 students from elementary school to college. All applications for this year's scholarships must be received by May 10th, 2008. If you need an application, click on the link above, contact your local Optimist Club, or call Marilyn Pell 480-892-2936.
Who decides who gets funds?
A panel of Optimists from all over the state of Arizona will evaluate all the applications. Each Optimist club in Arizona can have up to two members on the panel. Each member of the panel will only receive the second page of the application so no one will know the student’s name or where (s)he is from. Panel members read all applications and make their own top picks. Then the whole panel will gets together to compare, discuss and decide. Awards will be based on need, other assistance the student is receiving, availability of funds, and the student's own words on why (s)he thinks (s)he should get a scholarship.
Where can I find our more?
Call 520-628-8725 and ask for Esther, or Marilyn Pell 480-892-2936 and hopefully all your questions on the JEJME will be answered!
How can I help?
- Make a monetary donation.
- Donate items for the silent auction or future raffles.
- Distribute scholarship applications to students who have a need.
- Use the Joey Community Partners Card when you shop at Albertson’s.
- Contact Esther @ 520-628-8725 to speak to any group about the Endowment.
Why should I donate to JEJME?
These scholarships are aimed at kids to really make a difference in their lives. Since this is an endowment, the money you give now will continue to help provide scholarships in the future. When we reach our next goal of $100,000 in the endowment, we will be giving between $5,000 and $13,000 annually in scholarships each year. Help make it happen!
