Investing in Bright Futures: Celebrating Our Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

In August, LifeSTEPS proudly awarded $131,279 in scholarships to 44 deserving residents through the JB Brown Fund and the Patrick R. Sabelhaus Fund. These scholarships not only provide financial support, but also open doors to opportunity, stability, and long-term success for residents pursuing higher education.

One of our Sabelhaus scholarship recipients, Andres, a student at California State University, Fullerton, expressed his gratitude:

“I appreciate the scholarship; this is going to go a long way for my future endeavors, and I am happy to have financial help from people who are looking to help me succeed in my career.”

Beyond easing financial strain, these scholarships are helping residents focus fully on their education and future goals.

We are especially proud to celebrate Jocelyn, a JB Brown Academic Scholarship recipient, who will graduate this fall from Grand Canyon University with her degree in education. For Jocelyn, the scholarship has meant the freedom to focus on her passion—becoming the best teacher she can be.

“Without the constant stress of tuition and living expenses, I can dedicate more time and energy to student teaching, preparing for certification, and growing into the best educator I can be. Having professors, peers, and a community that believes in me has made a lasting impact on my journey.”

As a future elementary school teacher, Jocelyn is determined to create a classroom that uplifts and empowers every student, particularly those facing challenges like housing insecurity and poverty—obstacles she understands firsthand.

“I have been blessed to receive this scholarship almost every semester, and it has played a vital role in making it possible for me to attend a university and pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. Each award has not only relieved financial stress but also reminded me that there are people who believe in my goals and want to see me succeed.”

With her upcoming graduation, Jocelyn carries both gratitude and a strong desire to give back to her community in the same way the JB Brown Fund has supported her.

At LifeSTEPS, we believe education is one of the most powerful tools for breaking cycles of poverty and building stable, fulfilling futures. With Spring 2026 scholarship applications now open, we are excited to continue encouraging residents to take the next step in their academic journeys.

Together, with the generous support of the JB Brown Fund and the Patrick R. Sabelhaus Fund, we are investing in brighter futures—one scholar at a time.