Larsen starts scholarship foundation in memory of grandfather and uncle

By Marlene J. Bohr
mbohr@steelcountrybee.com

 Love of family, friends, school and community has inspired an East Texas man to establish a foundation to give back to the school and community where he grew up. A 2000 graduate of Daingerfield High School, Jack Larsen has begun a scholarship foundation called the Jack Larsen Foundation.
“This foundation is named after my grandfather, Jack Larsen, and my uncle, Jackie Larsen, and is in memory of them,” Mr. Larsen said. “I never met my grandfather, but I have been told many good stories about him, and his character is still motivating me today.
“I had the pleasure of knowing my Uncle Jackie. I still wear the beanie he once gave me for Christmas. He even let me take his truck to prom my junior year. He had his own path in life and I could never even begin to understand how he felt. I’m happy that the last words that were ever said between us were words of kindness. He always made me smile.  I appreciate them both for giving me the inspiration to create this foundation.”
There are two ways to be awarded, according to Mr. Larsen.
“The first is an academic scholarship,” he said.  “If a student is enrolled into any form of higher education such as a junior college, a state university, a technical school, a musical school and/or private university, they will be eligible to apply for a $1,000 scholarship. They must be enrolled for a minimum of 12 hours. If the scholarship recipient successfully passes all courses with a 70 or better grade, that recipient will receive an additional $1,000 every year, for up to four years. The recipient must also be involved in any youth leadership programs such as tutoring, coaching, and/or mentoring. To be eligible for this scholarship any student wishing to apply must submit a project about how they would better the Daingerfield-Lone Star communities.
“The other way to be awarded is with a community leadership scholarship. If the recipient does not choose to attend a higher education, they may choose to work on a community project. In the event their application is accepted, they will be awarded $1,000 to act on their project. If you want to fix something say Truitt Field, you can be given money to complete your project. Other project ideas are to have the basketball court in Lone Star Park refurbished; create a public garden in the community or donate money so that one can be created; have a section of the track repaired; or start an after school program. Any project idea on how to better the community will be given consideration and ultimately the best idea will receive funding.”
 

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