About the Scholarship
The Freedom Center Scholarship supports students who are passionate about raising awareness around addiction and recovery. Through this scholarship, two students will be selected for a $1500 award and a $500 award toward their education while contributing to a vital conversation about healing and change.
The Application Process
Essay Prompt
Breaking the Chains: The Impact of Addiction on Individuals, Families, and Society
Substance use disorder has profound and lasting effects on individuals, their loved ones, and society at large. With increased awareness and treatment resources, the path to recovery and healing continues to evolve.
In a compelling 700–1000-word essay, discuss the effects of addiction on individuals, families, or the community. You may choose one or more of the following perspectives:
Personal Experience
Have you or someone close to you been affected by addiction? Share a personal story and reflect on key lessons learned.
Path to Recovery
What do you consider the most effective ways to assist individuals battling addiction? Consider discussing treatment strategies, support networks, or personal resilience.
Prevention and Awareness
How can society better educate young people about substance abuse risks?
Future of Treatment
How do advancements in science and mental health awareness shape the future of addiction treatment and recovery?
Essays will be evaluated on originality, depth of insight, clarity of thought, and personal reflection.
Key Dates
Applications open
March 1, 2026
Application deadline
June 1, 2026
Awards issued
June 15, 2026
The scholarship is available annually. Applications open on March 1st, and close on June 1st. Winners will be announced by June 15th.
Who Can Apply
- NU.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- NCurrently enrolled or in the process of enrolling in a U.S.-based accredited university, college, or vocational institution.
- NEmployees and immediate family of The Freedom Center are not eligible
Rules & Submission Guidelines
- NAny evidence of plagiarism will result in immediate disqualification.
- NEntries suspected of containing AI-generated material will be disqualified.
- NOnly one submission per applicant
- NLate or incomplete entries will not be considered
How to Apply
Email your essay to scholarships@thefreedomcenter.com by June 1, 2026 and include the following:
- NFull name
- NDate of birth
- NMailing address
- NPhone number
- NEmail address
- NSchool name (current or intended)
AWARDS
Two scholarships will be awarded for the top essay submissions: first and second place.
Terms and Conditions
- =Winners agree to allow The Freedom Center to share their name, identifying details, and essays for promotional, educational, or contest-related purposes.
- =By applying, contestants agree that their essays become the property of The Freedom Center, which reserves the right to use or reproduce the content as needed
- =The Freedom Center reserves the right to adjust submission deadlines based on the volume of applications received. Applicants are encouraged to submit early.
- =Winners are responsible for any taxes or fees on the award
- =The Freedom Center’s decisions regarding winners and awards are final, except in cases of rule violations.
- =Scholarship awards may be revoked if a winner is later determined to be ineligible or in violation of the contest rules.
- =If any contest rules are updated, participants will be notified via email. Should an applicant disagree with any changes, they may withdraw their submission.
- =Submissions must be the original work of the applicant. Any evidence of plagiarism will result in immediate disqualification.
- =The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate essay content is strictly prohibited. Entries suspected of containing AI-generated material will be disqualified.
- =Entries that do not meet the requirements or are submitted past the deadline will not be considered.
- =The Freedom Center is not responsible for injuries or losses related to the contest. Award recipients are solely responsible for any taxes. Participation constitutes acceptance of all terms and conditions.
