RCH 22 Foundation ReaCH Scholarship 2026

Award: $2200 ($1100 paid Fall term, $1100 paid Spring term). One-year award; may be considered for reoccurrence at the discretion of the RCH 22 Foundation Board.

Recipients must provide proof of 2^nd semester enrollment for the Spring award. Awards will be paid directly to the school’s Bursar’s office.

Deadline for Fall 2026: Submit your application packet by 5/5/26 

Scholarship Eligibility:

This scholarship is available to all graduating high school students residing within the D300 area, whether enrolled in public or private schools, and to students who reside in the D300 area and are transferring from a junior college to a university or trade school.

Background: Ever since his first college fair at DCHS, Ryan dreamed of attending the University of South Carolina. Though the path was challenging, he worked tirelessly, earned scholarships, and made his dream a reality—proving that focus, perseverance, and hope can overcome even daunting obstacles. Ryan unexpectedly passed away at the age of 22, leaving behind a profound void and immeasurable grief for his family and friends—an absence that continues to shape their lives.

Inspired by Ryan and the lasting impact of his loss, the ReaCH scholarship supports students who have faced, or are facing, tragedy or the heartbreaking loss of an immediate famior another deeply significant loved one. We seek resilient students who, despite this tragedy and grief, continue to pursue their dreams and honor the memory of those they’ve loved.

This scholarship provides financial support and celebrates the courage, strength, and determination of students turning personal tragedy into purpose and hope.

Application / Basic Information

• Complete the application document:

• Personal Statement / Essay  or Video

  • Share your story: Describe the tragedy or the immediate family member (or other deeply significant loved one) you have lost, how it has affected your life, and how you have shown resilience or perseverance despite this. Please include information about your community involvement or extracurricular activities to highlight how you are actively building your future despite tragedy/loss.

  • Describe your academic and personal goals and explain how this scholarship would support your journey.

  • Provide a transcript (can be unofficial)

  • Suggested length: 500 – 750 words.

• Proof of Enrollment / Acceptance

  • Provide evidence of current enrollment or acceptance at a college, university, or trade school. This could be an acceptance letter or current class schedule.

• Demonstration of Financial Need

  • Show that you are financing your education (all or in part) through loans, scholarships, or personal contributions. This could include:

    • A current financial aid award letter

    • Loan documentation from your school or lender

    • A statement from your family outlining financial circumstances

• Academic and Personal References

  • Optional, but encouraged: letters from a teacher, counselor, mentor, or community leader who can speak to your character, resilience, and commitment to education. Must be submitted directly by the recommender to rch22foundation@gmail.com; references are also due by 5/5/26.

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How to Apply

• Submit your application packet by 5/5/26 via email: rch22foundation@gmail.com

Selection Criteria

This scholarship is open to all students residing within the D300 area, whether enrolled in public or private schools. Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Personal story and demonstration of resilience

• Academic achievement and future goals

• Financial need

• Optional references

• Incomplete applications will not be considered

• Recipients will be required to write a short impact statement and provide a picture to be posted on the Foundation website.

Questions

For questions or assistance with your application, please send an email to rch22foundation@gmail.com.