LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Laughlin XL Spouses Club has awarded $10,000 in scholarships to 17 applicants across the San Felipe CISD school district this year.
Students from Laughlin, Del Rio, and Comstock received aid through the program, pushing them towards higher education.
To Angela Avila, Laughlin XL Spouses scholarship chairman, pursuing higher education is a priority that everyone would share.
“Education is important for the essentials in life and [is] the baseline for almost every job today,” said Avila. “Laughlin XL Spouses decided to give out scholarships because it’s an excellent opportunity for us to give back to our base and local community.”
The funds that were awarded were all raised through the Laughlin Thrift Shop.
In less than a year, the Laughlin Thrift Shop has raised more than $15,000. These funds have been used for scholarships along with 14 other agencies/charities/entities.
For students like James Ochello, a Laughlin XL Spouses Club scholarship recipient, the scholarship provides an opportunity to pursue a degree with a little less stress.
“College isn’t exactly easy to pay for,” said Ochello. “I was amazed at how much the scholarship was for, and I knew how helpful it’d be.”
Ochello said he plans on using his college degree to join the Air Force, and hopes that this scholarship would help him get there.
Brittney Erickson, Laughlin XL Spouses Club president, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the scholarship process.
“We’re always looking for volunteers to be a part of the Laughlin XL Spouses Club.” said Erickson. “If we get more volunteers, it allows us to accomplish our goals and support more people.”
For further information on how to contribute or apply for the scholarship contact the Laughlin XL Spouses Club at xlspouses@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.