About Us
Launching Educational Assistance Programs Forward, Inc. (LEAP Forward, Inc.) is dedicated to empowering a generation of underserved youth who rise to the challenge of becoming academically prepared, purpose-driven problem solvers and productive leaders committed to serving humanity.
Our scholarship program began in 1998 with our first $250 book scholarships. Twenty-five years later, we are proud to have awarded more than 504 scholarships totaling over $520,000. Today, LEAP Forward, Inc. manages over 30 scholarships, each generously sponsored by families, organizations, and community partners who believe in investing in the next generation.
Providing Hope & Opportunity
LEAP Forward, Inc. Scholarship Program
We invite students to explore our full list of scholarship sponsors and to carefully review the eligibility criteria for all current scholarships before submitting an application. Doing so helps applicants identify the opportunities that best align with their academic goals, interests, and qualifications.
For more than 25 years, LEAP Forward, Inc. has been a catalyst for academic achievement, career readiness, and personal growth among underrepresented youth in Southern Maryland and the Washington Metropolitan area. Through scholarships, mentorship, culturally grounded support and various hands-on initiatives that expose students to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields, we have helped students gain access to opportunities that change the trajectory of their lives.
Our scholars have gone on to attend top colleges and universities, pursue careers in engineering, healthcare, education, business, and public service, and return to their communities as leaders and role models. Some are now mentoring the next generation—creating a powerful cycle of achievement and service. We encourage more to pay it forward.
Each scholarship awarded represents more than financial assistance. It is an investment in a young person’s confidence, potential, and future. With the continued support of our donors and partners, LEAP Forward, Inc. is expanding pathways to success and ensuring that every student we serve is equipped to LEAD, EXPLORE, ACHIEVE, PERFORM, EXCEL and RISE (LEAPERS) and make a lasting impact on the world.
