KFM Making A Difference For Autism Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Kerry Magro Scholarship Program

## About KFM Making A Difference **Mission and focus** KFM Making A Difference is a nonprofit dedicated to disability awareness and creating post-secondary opportunities for students on the autism spectrum. Founded in 2009 by CEO and President Kerry Magro, the organization combines advocacy with financial support to help individuals with special needs pursue higher education. Its work centers on outreach, scholarships, and building an online community of support. Key takeaways: - Founded in 2009 by Kerry Magro. - Focus: disability awareness and scholarships for students with autism. - Combines advocacy with direct financial support. ## Eligibility **Who may apply** The scholarship is open to high school seniors accepted into post-secondary programs and current post-secondary students who will be enrolled during the 2026–2027 academic year. Applicants may be located anywhere — the program accepts candidates from the U.S. and internationally. Graduate and doctoral students who will be enrolled in 2026–2027 are also eligible. Previous applicants and past finalists or winners may reapply if they submit a new, original application and essay. Key takeaways: - Open to students enrolled or accepted for the 2026–2027 academic year. - U.S. and international applicants accepted. - Graduate and doctoral students are eligible. - Reapplications allowed with a new application and essay. ## Award, Deadline, and Confirmation **Scholarship amount and submission timing** The selected recipient receives a $500 scholarship to use for post-secondary education expenses. All applications must be fully completed and submitted by 12:00 AM (midnight) EST on the stated deadline. After submission, applicants should expect a confirmation email within 72 hours; if none arrives, contact the organization via the KFM Making A Difference Facebook page for assistance. Key takeaways: - Award: $500 for education expenses. - Submission cut-off: 12:00 AM (Midnight) EST on the deadline. - Expect confirmation email within 72 hours; contact KFM via Facebook if you don’t receive it. ## Application Requirements **Documents and materials to include** Applications must include four parts: a cover letter, a resume, a formal letter of reference, and an essay package. The cover letter must include a short bio (≤250 words), the postsecondary program you’re attending or accepted to, autism diagnosis and age of diagnosis, and full contact information (name, address, phone, email). The letter of reference should be a formal recommendation addressed to “Dear KFM Making A Difference Scholarship Committee” and must include a contact phone and/or email for follow-up. Key takeaways: - Required parts: Cover letter, resume, letter of reference, essay package. - Cover letter: short bio, program info, diagnosis details, full contact info. - Letter of reference: formal recommendation addressed to the Scholarship Committee with referrer contact details. ## Essay Submission Guidelines and Resources **Content, format, and inspiration** The essay portion should be submitted in Microsoft Word and run 750–1,000 words describing your experience growing up on the autism spectrum. The submission package must also include at least three high-resolution photos, a title no longer than 70 characters (including spaces), and a 2–4 sentence byline introducing yourself. Essays should aim to educate, inspire, or motivate the autism community; authenticity and creativity are encouraged. For examples and inspiration, applicants are encouraged to read essays by Kerry Magro linked on his website. Key takeaways: - Essay: 750–1,000 words in MS Word about your autism experience. - Additional items: ≥3 high-resolution photos, ≤70-character title, 2–4 sentence byline. - Tone: educate, inspire, motivate; prioritize authenticity and creativity. - Recommended reading: Kerry Magro’s published essays for guidance. ## How to Support and Connect **Ways to get involved** KFM Making A Difference invites individuals and organizations to support the scholarship program and join its online community. Over the past years, Kerry Magro’s work has funded numerous scholarships; supporters can help sustain and expand this impact by donating, sharing the program, or engaging on social platforms. For assistance with applications or to get involved, reach out through the KFM Making A Difference Facebook page. Key takeaways: - Support options: donate, share the program, or engage online. - Community involvement helps sustain scholarships and awareness efforts. - Contact and application help available via the KFM Making A Difference Facebook page.