Dollars for Scholars: Eighty-eight Students Awarded Scholarships Totaling $150,000! | |
We are thrilled to share that with your help, the LEO Foundation has awarded scholarships to 88 outstanding students for the upcoming 2023/2024 school year. The total value of these scholarships amounts to $150,000, a testament to our shared commitment to supporting and nurturing young talents. |  | |
The LEO Foundation aims to empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers by awarding these scholarships. We believe that scholarship support is vital in enabling talented but financially challenged students to pursue their educational aspirations. These scholarships will allow students to focus on their studies and ultimately prepare them for successful careers and impactful contributions to society.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the generous donors and supporters who have made these scholarships possible. Together, we are shaping a future where education knows no bounds and talented individuals are empowered to create lasting change in their communities and beyond.
Please join our incredible mission of providing scholarships to students - Dollars for Scholars! A donation in any amount makes a difference.
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Chief Executive Officer, LEO Foundation USA | |
Graduate Showcase: Celebrating Bright Futures | |
Our student stories are a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of love and compassion. From a war-torn village in Liberia to a life of opportunity and service, Jacob's journey serves as an inspiration to those who face seemingly insurmountable challenges. Matthew reminds us that no matter how difficult life may be, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow. | | |
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Jacob's childhood in a small village in Liberia was marked by heartache. When Jacob was just five years old, his papa, a pillar of strength and love, tragically passed away. The loss continued when his oldest brother was also unable to get basic medical treatment due to the rampant Ebola virus throughout the area.
Jacob's mother struggled to care for the five children on her own, and as the weight grew heavier each day, she knew the only hope for a future was to send the two youngest siblings to America. Jacob and his sister had adoptive parents who provided a nurturing environment along with opportunities while instilling values of compassion with medical mission trips. Driven by an indomitable spirit, education became Jacob's beacon of hope—his dream: to help people like his papa and brother through medicine.
Now, 18 years later, Jacob has graduated from college and is preparing for his "MCAT" (medical college admission test). He works as a medical assistant for an orthopedic surgeon and volunteers as a soccer coach for young children.
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Matthew graduated with a degree in Christian Studies from Grand Canyon University in April of 2023.
His journey to this accomplishment has been anything but easy, but his determination for a better life never wavered. Matthew's mother died when he was a young boy. Yet, despite all the odds – a lack of emotional and financial support, Matthew was determined to honor his mother by following his dream of becoming a pastor. After four years of school, work, and supporting himself, Matthew is now enjoying a job working with the lead pastor at Trinity Community Church. His journey will continue this fall when he continues his theological studies at seminary school, the circle of life from a young man determined to honor his mother by succeeding in his dreams.
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Congratulations to all of our 2023 graduates. We are so proud of their dedication and tremendous accomplishments. We look forward to sharing future stories of their community and social impact. | |
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Humanitarians at Heart
and Champions for Education
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Honoring the lives of two LEO Foundation mentors, colleagues, and dear friends of more than 25 years, Sharky Baker and Mildred Brazell. | | |
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Sharky Baker passed away on March 24th at the age of 96. As the first board chairman of the GCU Scholarship Foundation, now known as Leo Foundation, Sharky advocated for the growth and sustainability of this organization, always supporting and encouraging those involved for the greater good of society. To honor Sharky and his wife Leona’s life and dedication to education, the LEO Foundation has created the LaVern "Sharky" and Leona Baker Educational Scholarship to support students as they pursue their degrees in education. If you would like more information or would like to contribute to this scholarship fund, please click the Donate Now button below. | | | |
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On March 30th, Mildred passed away at the age of 98. Mildred, who taught at Grand Canyon for 38 years, was married for 72 years to Dr. Dave Brazell, who founded Lopes baseball in 1951 and coached the program for 28 years. Mildred and her husband shared a common philosophy for the successful sports program established during their early years of GCU. As a professor, Mildred shared her passion for the importance of physical education for all, for life. In 1970, Mildred was a finalist for the AAUW Women of Achievement award, a runner-up to winner Sandra Day O’Connor. She would smile and say, “Not bad company.” Mildred embraced, mentored, and loved many throughout her life and always said each was a blessing. | | |
The LEO Foundation will establish a scholarship initiative this fall in honor of Mildred and Coach Brazell. | |
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We hope you will join us for a delightful evening filled with delicious cuisine, engaging conversations, and a chance to mingle with other community philanthropists who are passionate about transforming lives through education. The funds raised during this event will support students who face financial barriers to accessing higher education through scholarship funds. These scholarships will enable them to pursue their dreams, unlock their potential, and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in their chosen fields.
Throughout the evening, you will hear heartwarming stories from past scholarship recipients who have overcome challenges and achieved remarkable success through their educational journeys. These stories serve as a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact your support can have on the lives of young individuals.
We sincerely hope you will join us at this fundraising dinner to enjoy an evening under the stars and contribute to creating a brighter future for financially challenged students. By investing in education, we can empower the next generation and pave the way for their success. We look forward to seeing you there.
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The Future Awaits - Section 7 Basketball Event | |
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The LEO Foundation has partnered with the Arizona Basketball Association and BHHS Legacy Foundation to host the Section 7 basketball event starting June 15th through the 25th. This event will host 400 high school teams from 12 states for 800 games. It's the biggest stage for high school teams to play in front of over 700 college coaches.
Over $24M in scholarships will be offered to nearly 10,000 high school students, and 2,000 basketballs will be given during the Legacy Hoops for Health Program launch. The basketballs have a QR code that will connect youth to free dental services.
We hope you will join us for this free action-packed event.
Be sure to mark your calendar, the following is the event schedule:
> June 15-17, Section 7 Girls Weekend
> June 21-22, BHHS Legacy Boys Qualifier
> June 23-25, Section 7 Boys Weekend
For more information, visit: Basketball Event
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Meet New Board Member and Investment Advisor, Rob Kottmann
Rob is the president and director of Brenbecke, Inc. and NSS Concrete Polishing, commercial subcontractor companies he founded in 2005 and acquired in 2023, respectively. Previously, he was the vice president of a major subcontracting company based in Southern California. Rob has over 35 years of industry experience.
Rob is the proud father of four adult children and grandpa to one granddaughter. He’s excited for his family to grow.
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Rob’s lifelong ambition is to live a Christ-like life, being a godly example to those he encounters. Rob is a benefactor of HOPE International Development Agency and a children's sponsor with Compassion International.
Outside of work, you will find Rob traveling with friends and family, volunteering on international mission trips, and mentoring the next generation of leaders in moral and ethical business management.
Welcome to the LEO Foundation board, Rob!
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Making Big Dreams Come True with Charitable Giving Strategies | |
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While traditional forms of giving, such as direct donations, are critical and valuable, there are many other ways of giving that have favorable tax implications and offer a unique opportunity to create a legacy that extends beyond your lifetime: wills and trusts, bequests, real estate, stocks, IRAs, endowments.
Planned giving offers a powerful avenue for donors to leave a lasting impact and support charitable organizations in a meaningful way. By carefully considering your giving goals, engaging in thoughtful financial planning, and exploring various planned giving options, you can create a legacy that positively influences lives, communities, and causes for years to come. The benefits of planned giving extend beyond immediate financial contributions, allowing you to make a profound difference and leave a lasting mark on the world.
If you would like more information, please visit our website or call us at 602.206.4465.
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Education is the key to unlocking opportunities for students of all backgrounds and providing our community with educated and skilled professionals. However, it has become increasingly out of reach for many students. If you would like to join our mission and invest in future generations by supporting student leadership and educational opportunities through scholarships, mentoring, and athletic programs, please consider a gift in any amount. | |
LEO Foundation
www.leofoundationusa.org
24 West Camelback, Suite A-407, Phoenix, Arizona 85013
Madeline Winney - mwinney@LEOFoundationUSA.org - 602.206.4465
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