The Zakat Foundation of America’s annual Community Service Scholarship draws hundreds of graduating high school seniors from 11 states, each eager to share their passion projects and commitment to community service. This scholarship underscores our dedication to fostering civic engagement and empowering the next generation of leaders. By supporting these students, we aim to encourage a culture of volunteerism and civic responsibility, inspiring the next generation to continue serving others.
Congratulations To All 60 Award Recipients
We congratulate all 60 award recipients and encourage every applicant to keep pursuing their passion for serving others. Read the testimonials of some of our winners and how this scholarship will help them.
Aadil K. from North Carolina State
This scholarship will directly help me cover educational expenses like tuition fees and textbook costs.
Aneesa J. from Northeast Lakeview College
I plan to use the funds toward my college tuition and essential academic supplies, easing the financial burden on my family.
Delanie M. from Modesto Junior College
This scholarship will allow me to focus on my academics and my community service by allowing me to work fewer hours to cover my school expenses.
Ethan K. from the University of California San Diego
Thanks to Zakat Foundation, I can pursue environmental science and support my community while following my passion to protect the environment.
Jannat Z. from Rutgers University – New Brunswick Honor's College
This scholarship eases my college expenses, letting me focus on my goals and inspiring me to serve my community with even more purpose.
Jiyu K. from CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College
This scholarship eases our college costs and reminds me of the impact I can make. It lifts some of the burden from my single mother and brings hope for my younger siblings’ education too.
Klayton I. from Cornell University
This scholarship will help me significantly, my first tuition bill is due in a couple of weeks.
Maaz A. from the University of Texas at Austin
This award will help in contributing to my passion for learning and enable me to pursue a higher education.
Madison B. from Texas Christian University
I am so grateful to be a recipient, as this scholarship will help fund my nursing education.
Reem A. from Rutgers University
Thank you so much I will use this money towards my college expenses.
Sabrina G. from Messiah University
This scholarship is going to help me be able to easily afford 1 of 5 years of my Occupational Therapy program.
Sarah A. from Rutgers University
This scholarship will help me to pay for my college tuition as well as books and materials.
This scholarship gives young leaders a platform to showcase their impact while providing financial support that eases the burden of college costs as they begin their academic journey.
The Importance of Celebrating Service
Community service is an effective way to develop young leaders who are involved, responsible, and empathetic. Younger generations that actively serve their communities gain insight, leadership abilities, and a broader comprehension of social issues. These qualities are crucial for creating a society that is more inclusive and just. Showcasing and applauding students who commit their time to service not only recognizes their accomplishments but also encourages their peers to do the same. Our hope is that these young activists can develop into purposeful adults who lead and change their communities, supported with proper assistance.
Each year, the Zakat Foundation of America awards a total of $30,000 USD in scholarships to graduating high school seniors entering two- or four-year colleges. The scholarship is open to U.S. citizens or residents who have been actively involved in community service throughout their high school years. They apply for one of two categories: Zakat Foundation of America volunteers or community service volunteers. This year’s essay question asked applicants to share their relationship with their community and how it affected their current involvement and future pursuits with community service.
Honoring Our Judges
Behind every successful Community Service Scholarship cycle is a dedicated team of judges who generously volunteer their time and expertise to carefully review each application. For the past three years, Dr. Sanjeda Sultana, Dr. Naji Wajid, and Sadaf Balighuddin have served on the Zakat Foundation of America’s Scholarship Committee, helping to identify and uplift outstanding young leaders. Dr. Sultana, an endocrinologist with UNC Health in Cary, NC, has been a Zakat Foundation of America North Carolina volunteer since 2019. Dr. Wajid, an OB-GYN at Yale Health in New Haven, CT, brings a lifelong connection to Zakat Foundation of America, shaped by childhood experiences in charity work. He values this opportunity to support students’ academic and service journeys. Sadaf Balighuddin, a longtime Zakat Foundation of America volunteer since 2017, proudly serves alongside her children, who are also active in community outreach. “My children have also served as active volunteers with Zakat Foundation of America, contributing meaningfully and helping make a positive impact in our community. I truly enjoy being involved with an organization that is making such a significant difference. Every moment with Zakat Foundation of America is a learning opportunity, and I’m grateful for the chance to connect with so many dedicated and inspiring individuals,” shared Balighuddin.
Their thoughtful contributions and commitment reflect the heart of Zakat Foundation of America’s mission: to recognize, encourage, and empower the next generation of changemakers.
Continuing the Journey of Service
To the applicants, we encourage you to continue serving with purpose. The Zakat Foundation of America offers ongoing opportunities for youth and adults alike to volunteer, connect, and make a meaningful impact both locally and globally.
