For more than 25 years, Veralene Garrett served as a Rape Crisis Counselor for Community Violence Solutions in Contra Costa and Marin counties. In this role, Veralene worked late hours in hospitals and police departments throughout Contra Costa and Marin and provided comfort and guidance to victims in crisis situations.

To honor and celebrate the incredible contribution and impact Veralene made in her 25 years of service, the Community Violence Solutions Board of Directors has established the Veralene Garrett Memorial Scholarship. The $2,500 annual scholarship will be awarded each year to a college student pursuing a degree in the social sciences and planning to work in a profession focused on public service and helping people in crisis.

ELIGIBILITY

Currently enrolled in two-year or four-year college
Pursuing associate or bachelor degree in social sciences
Candidate must currently have at least a 3.0 grade point average
Candidate must be planning career in public service

CRITERIA

Demonstrated academic achievement throughout college
Significant involvement in community and school activities
Recommendation from a faculty member or leadership representative of their school or professional/volunteer organization
Finalists will also have short, individual interview with the scholarship committee to determine the most qualified applicant

PROCEDURE

The application must be submitted by May 31, 2027.

A recommendation from a faculty member or leadership representative of the applicant's school or professional/volunteer organization must be submitted by May 31, 2027.

All application questions must be answered completely and the application must include a copy of a college transcript, describe school and community activities, and list any awards or recognition the student has received for these activities.

Finalists will be interviewed by the selection committee (Date TBD).

Scholarship will be awarded (Date TBD).