04/05/2026
Awesome news!
Thanks to the incredible generosity of friends, family, the people of Lake Placid, and supporters beyond, we raised more than we ever expected. Because of that, we’re able to offer more scholarships this year—and each one will be for a larger amount than last year.
That said, we’ve run into something a bit disappointing. We were really hoping to award more trade school scholarships, but unfortunately, none of the applicants this year appear to be pursuing the trades. We’re not sure if that’s because we didn’t emphasize it enough or if there’s just a lack of interest—but either way, it’s something that needs to change.
As a society, we have to do a better job showing young people the value and opportunity that comes with learning a trade. I personally know many extremely successful individuals—some of whom are generous donors to our foundation—who started as tradesmen. Their skills gave them the foundation to build wealth, create businesses, and provide for not only their own families, but for hundreds of others as well.
I stand firmly with that mindset, much like Mike Rowe, and as a tradesman myself, I know firsthand the doors it can open.
So here’s the ask: if you live in Highlands County and you’re interested in going to trade school, please reach out. We still have scholarship opportunities available, and we want to support you.
Let’s start changing the narrative.
