Scholarship applications being sought for Lion’s Club
Applications are now being sought for the Fort Myers Beach Lions Club “We Serve” scholarships.
Fort Myers Beach Lions Scholarship Chair Darby Doerzbacher said last year they awarded 10 scholarships at a $1,000 a piece. She said the hope is to award 10 again this year.
There are two special awards, named after two individuals. The Shirley Semmer Award, named after a women who did a great deal for the Fort Myers Beach community, is given to someone who is well-rounded and reaches out a little more than usual. The Fred Schmiesing Award, named after a past Lion president, is awarded to someone with athletic ability.
“It’s a little extra and they get a nice little award,” Doerzbacher said.
Those interested in filling out an application can download one at www.fmblions.com.
“I am a little old-fashioned,” she explained. “It needs to be downloaded and mailed to the address, so I can sit there with the physical application in hand.”
The application should be mailed to Lion Darby Doerzbacher, 11270 Heidi Lee Lane, Fort Myers, Florida, 33908. Applications must be submitted by May 15.
“It’s a wonderful thing. You see the future. You see the future of the world, beach and the community,” she said of the recipients who receive their check at a ceremonial dinner. “Over the years they come back to thank me. Their parents call me and tell me where their kids are. It’s a wonderful feeling. Sometimes it makes me cry.”
Scholarships are awarded to local students furthering their education at a college, or vocational school.
“It’s not all about your GPA. It’s more about what kind of person you are. What you have done. What you can give. The Lion’s motto is ‘we serve.’ How much are you willing to give back,” Doerzbacher said of the applicant recipients.