Optimist Club William J. Cummer Scholarship
One award at approximately $2,500, applied directly to tuition
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Calgary Foundation · Regional
Reviewed by G Paul · verified April 18, 2026
Get approximately $2,500 for your final year of an undergraduate program if you are an Alberta resident with a history of volunteering — apply by May 30, 2026.
You can win one award at approximately $2,500, though additional smaller awards may be available. This is a scholarship, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you have dedicated your time to leadership and serving youth through volunteer work. You must apply by May 30, 2026. When you apply, ask the Calgary Foundation how and when you will be notified of the results — whether by email, phone, or through their portal. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Calgary Foundation how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. The money is applied directly to your tuition. Confirm with the provider if there are any specific steps you need to take to ensure the funds reach your school account. Renewal conditions aren't listed — since this targets students in their final year of study, confirm with Calgary Foundation if it is a one-time payment or if any other conditions apply.
Read the official award page end-to-end. Confirm you meet every requirement before you start.
Order through your school registrar: allow 1–2 weeks.
Give your referees at least two weeks' notice and share your résumé.
Double-check every field, save a copy, and submit at least 24 hours early.
The biggest mistake is listing a series of clubs you joined without explaining your impact.
Winners instead describe exactly how their service helped youth grow and provide a specific example of a project they led.
Many students provide a generic letter from a teacher.
Winners instead secure a reference from a supervisor at a non-profit or community center who can vouch for their leadership in a volunteer setting.
Focus your application on the intersection of leadership and youth service.
Since the Optimist Club values youth development, highlight any time you mentored someone younger than you.
How do I apply?
Click the Start application button above: it opens the official application page in a new tab.
When is the deadline?
Applications close on May 30, 2026. Submit early: portals get busy in the final hours.
Can international students apply?
Eligibility is limited to: Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident.
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One award at approximately $2,500, applied directly to tuition