Pierce CLC announces service scholarships

Jerry Beckendorf Community Service Scholarship now open to applications from Pierce County high school seniors from union families

The following is from the Pierce County Labor Community Services Agency:

PIERCE, CO. (March 6, 2026) — The Pierce County Labor Community Services Agency is proud to announce that applications are now open for the Jerry Beckendorf Community Service Scholarship, a long-standing program that supports graduating high school seniors from union families who are committed to serving their communities.

Since 2003, the scholarship has awarded more than $128,700 to 151 students across Pierce County—investing in young people who demonstrate leadership, civic responsibility, and a dedication to making a difference. The scholarship is open to graduating seniors in Pierce County who plan to attend college, university, trade, or technical programs within twelve months of graduation and who come from union households.

The scholarship honors the legacy of Jerry Beckendorf, a respected labor and community leader who spent 15 years as Labor Liaison for United Way of Pierce County and the Pierce County Central Labor Council. Throughout his career, Jerry worked to strengthen partnerships between labor, nonprofits, and the broader community—always grounded in the belief that collective action and service can improve lives.

Applicants are evaluated based on the amount and diversity of their community service, demonstrated leadership, the impact of their service, and their commitment to continued service. To ensure broad community engagement, at least 75 percent of volunteer hours must be completed outside of school or religious organizations.

By supporting students who look beyond themselves to address challenges such as food insecurity, homelessness, and poverty, the Jerry Beckendorf Community Service Scholarship helps nurture the next generation of leaders rooted in union values, community care, and public service.

Union members, educators, counselors, and community partners are encouraged to share this opportunity widely with eligible students and families.

Application information, eligibility details, and deadlines are available at https://bit.ly/Beckendorf26.

The Pierce County Labor Community Services Agency is the 501(c)(3) arm of the Pierce County Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO, which provides fundamental resources to individuals and families of Pierce County, helping them achieve self-sufficiency, self-confidence, independent living, and a higher quality of life.

The Pierce County Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO is Pierce County’s federation of over 110 local unions and the voice of over 45,000 workers. Established in 1890, PCCLC mobilizes members and community partners to advocate for social and economic justice and strives daily to vanquish oppression to make Pierce County better for all people—regardless of race, color, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation, or ethnic or national origin.