The Kailee M. Scharf Memorial Scholarship
Honoring Kailee’s Legacy of Kindness, Inclusion, and Service
The Kailee M. Scharf Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the life and legacy of Kailee M. Scharf, whose kindness, perseverance, commitment to service, and deep connection to her community continue to inspire those who knew her. This scholarship supports individuals who are pursuing educational, vocational, or personal development opportunities that reflect Kailee’s belief that every person has meaningful talents to share and the ability to make a positive impact.
Through this award, Kailee’s memory is carried forward by recognizing and encouraging recipients as they continue to learn, grow, serve others, and contribute to their communities.
Inspired by Kailee’s Light and Generous Heart
Kailee brought light, laughter, and love to everyone fortunate enough to know her. A lifelong Plymouth resident, she had a generous heart, joyful spirit, and genuine desire to help others.
Kailee attended Plymouth Public Schools and, after completing the Project GROWTH program, found a second home at The Arc of Plymouth and Upper Cape Cod. She embraced every opportunity, building friendships and inspiring others through her kindness, determination, and infectious joy.
Kailee had a passion for culinary arts and proudly earned her ServSafe Certification before beginning work at Plymouth Rehabilitation Center, where she took great pride in being part of a team serving others.
Giving back was an important part of Kailee’s life. She volunteered with Meals on Wheels, the Plymouth Center for Active Living, Pembroke Public Library, St. Bonaventure’s Food Pantry, and Damien’s Food Pantry, finding joy in helping others and contributing to her community.
Kailee’s legacy is one of kindness, perseverance, service, and the belief that everyone has something meaningful to contribute. This scholarship honors her by supporting individuals who, like Kailee, are pursuing opportunities to learn, grow, contribute, and make a difference in their communities.
Learn how to apply to the Kailee M. Scharf Memorial Scholarship
Please read the guidelines and description of the scholarship thoroughly. If you have further questions, please contact reach out for more information. Thank you for your interest!
Scholarship Timeline
The scholarship application will open on January 30, 2027 and must be received by March 30, 2027. The recipient will be notified by the end of April.
The recipient will be invited by the Arc for a celebratory lunch to recognize all their achievements and future plans!
Scholarship Amount
$2,000 One-Time Award
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluation on the following:
Demonstrated commitment to volunteerism and community services
Promotion of inclusion for individuals with disabilities or neurodivergent needs
Character, compassion, and leadership
Quality of the personal essay
Strength of recommendation
Interest in pursuing a helping profession
Submission Requirements
Completed application
Current high school transcript
Personal essay (500-750 words)
One letter of recommendation (from a non-family member, emailed directly to kathyb@plymouthcapearc.org)
Acceptance letter or proof of enrollment for higher education or certification program (if available)
How to Submit
Applicants are invited to Drop off or Mail all required documents to:
The Arc of Plymouth and Upper Cape Cod
c/o KMS Memorial Scholarship
71 Armstrong Rd. Plymouth, MA 02360