Tri-City Latino Association Launches Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion Community Scholarship

COLUMBUS, Ga. — The Tri-City Latino Association has announced the launch of the Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion Community Scholarship Program, an initiative aimed at fostering unity and uplifting Latin heritage through educational and community opportunities.

The scholarship was founded by longtime friends Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson and Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion as a tribute to cultural pride and a shared commitment to bridging diverse communities. The program is designed to support individuals of Latin and Hispanic descent in the Tri-City area—Columbus, Georgia; Fort Moore, Georgia; and Phenix City, Alabama.

“We want to empower members of our community, young and old, to embrace their roots and pursue their dreams,” said Woodson. “This program honors Harold’s legacy and the power of Latin culture to bring people together.”

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be of Latin/Hispanic descent and provide proof of residence in one of the Tri-City communities.

Award Categories

• Middle School Students: One-year membership to a youth organization selected by the TCLA committee.
• High School and College Students: Summer shadowing program with a local sponsor or vendor, including a stipend.
• Individual Adults: Attendance at selected community charitable events during 2025–2026, curated by the TCLA.

Application Process

Applications open in January 2025. The deadline for submissions is May 1, 2025. Selected recipients will be announced on May 15, 2025.

All applicants must submit:

• Two letters of recommendation
• A typed 500-word essay sharing their vision on how to bridge diverse walks of life through a celebration of Latin heritage

The selection committee will evaluate applicants based on the quality and insight of their essays.

How to Apply

Mail completed applications to:

Tri-City Latino Association
P.O. Box 3507
Columbus, GA 31903

Or email materials to: tricitylatinoassoc@gmail.com

For more information, follow the Tri-City Latino Association on social media or email the committee directly.

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