Building Better Villages, Inc is excited to share that we received a $500 Spark Good grant from our local Walmart store #3702 Walmart Jacksonville - City Square Dr. This grant will help High School Seniors pursue their post-secondary goals (college, trade/tech/vocational school). We are proud to spark good in our community! #SparkGood
RECIPIENTS will be ANNOUNCED
May 1, 2026!
Scholarship Opportunities
NEW 2026-2027 Applications Available!
Applicants may apply for one scholarship from the list below. Please read the criteria for each and make your selection. Completed applications are due by February 28, 2026. **
Applicants may also select "General Scholarship Fund" if they don't fit the criteria of any other scholarships currently listed.**
Michael R. Jones, Sr
(1953-2020)
Perseverance Scholarship
*Sponsored by Neil Jones, Sr.*
Michael Jones, Sr. was a kind-hearted disciplinarian, low-key comedian, skilled storyteller, and dedicated family man. He attended Duval County Public Schools and graduated from Jacksonville Technical High School in 1971. He immediately enlisted in the Marine Corps and served his country for 31 years. He retired as a Master Gunnery Sergeant in 2002. He married his high school sweetheart, and their 44-year union produced two sons, a granddaughter, and grandson—all of whom he loved dearly.
While serving in the military, he studied Network Management at Stratford University, Business Administration at Chadwick University, and Networking/ IT at Strayer University. Following retirement, he worked for Northrop Grumman Corporation from 2004-2014 as an Operations Research Analyst/Data Program Manager. He loved knowledge, learning & education and supported young people who were working towards pursuing their goals.
As a result of his time at Camp Lejeune, he was exposed to contaminated water and was diagnosed with several forms of cancer. He fought a valiant fight and was in remission when the disease returned. He never gave up and continued to live his life with vigor and enthusiasm—always encouraging and supporting others. This scholarship will be awarded to a student that has shown great determination and perseverance to overcome extenuating circumstances; minimum 2.5 GPA; has been accepted into a 2-year college, 4-year university, trade/vocational or technical school, or the military.
Turhan C. Jones, Sr.
(1958-1998)
Vocational/Trade School Scholarship
*Sponsored by Turhan & Tavia Jones*
Turhan “Tum Bummy” Jones was born and raised in Jacksonville, attended Duval County Public Schools, and was a proud graduate of Andrew Jackson High School—C/O 1976. He was the life of the party and always had a smile and laugh to share. He was a neighborhood “legend” and was respected and admired by the younger men for his style, athleticism, charm, and personality. He loved playing basketball and had a passion for bowling, for which he won several local titles and awards.
Tum Bummy loved his family and took pride in being a dedicated husband and father. He married his high school sweetheart with whom he shared two sons. He loved people and thrived on creativity. He was employed by Tipton Interior Contracting Company and his work with them allowed him to enjoy both.
He was an adored & beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. His light shined brightly on all the lives he touched. The recipient of this award must be accepted into trade/vocational or technical school and has a 2.5 minimum GPA.
William T. Murray
(1951-2011)
Scholarship for Displaced Teens
William “WT” Murray was a beloved son, father, brother and uncle. He was also a trusted and deeply loyal friend. He was always helping others and did so without complaint. He assisted family members and friends with their rent, utilities, and groceries and never looked for anything in return. He loved kids-his son, nieces, and nephews and always had a few dollars for the corner store runs. He took great care in his appearance and was known for debonair style.
He was employed by St. Vincent’s Hospital and loved working with and meeting new people. When patients were at their most vulnerable point, he went out of his way to treat them with dignity and respect. He loved his job and was good at it.
Later in life things took a turn and instead of reaching out to family, he ended up displaced for a short period. After his sister took him in and helped him get back on his feet, he spent six months in Transitional Housing for men at Trinity Rescue Mission.
With support from his sister and community resources, “WT” was able to secure stable housing and regain his independence. However, he never forgot the “one night I slept on a bus bench”. He said no one should ever have to experience such an ordeal. The recipient of this award must be identified as displaced, unhoused, unsheltered, or homeless; minimum 2.5 GPA; has been accepted into a 2-year college, 4-year university, trade/vocational or technical school, or the military.
Ronald E. Rice
(1949-2023)
Agricultural Scholarship
Ron “Cootafoot” Rice was born and raised in Walterboro, South Carolina. He came to Jacksonville, Florida with his brother Donald in his twenties for work and made it his home. He was employed by Wood Hopkins for 32 years & Hal Jones for 15 years as a heavy equipment operator, where he was highly respected and loved by his coworkers.
He lived his life boldly and to the fullest. He was actively involved in his church, his lodges, his auxiliaries, and gun club. He was a true outdoorsman who loved farming & gardening, hunting, fishing, riding horses & motorcycles, and anything “outside”.
Although he spent nearly five decades in Florida, his heart was always in South Carolina. He loved the land, the food, the animals, the people, and most of all his family. He was a loving and supportive father & grandfather who was committed to making sure his family was taken care of. In addition, he was well-loved by his siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. His big smile and even bigger heart left an indelible mark on all the lives he touched. This scholarship will be awarded to a student who has been accepted into trade/vocational or technical school, 2-year college, or 4-year university and has a 2.5 minimum GPA.
Catrina L. Williams
Teen Parent Scholarship
*Sponsored by Catrina Pringle*
Hi, I’m Catrina and this my story of being a teenage mother. I had my first child on May 24th, 1988, my 10th grade year of high school. I got pregnant with my second child my junior year in high school. I gave birth that summer on July 4th and returned to school August 1989. I graduated high school with my two kids at my graduation in June 1990. This journey was not easy at all, but I worked half the day and went to school the other half. Upon completing high school, I married my second child’s father my middle school first boyfriend. We got married had two other kids but unfortunately it ended in divorce. I then had to start over from scratch. I eventually remarried a few years later and that failed as well. At this point I'd been working for Publix Supermarkets for some years. So, I started over once again to rebuild my life. My dream was always to build my own home and live in a nice community. My dream came true with lots of sacrifice and hard work New Year’s Eve 2008 I moved into my new home that I built from the ground up. This year 2024 makes 16 years, I did this on my own with no help. It was my greatest accomplishment next to being a mother to my four children. I’m now happily married and retired after working for Publix for over 30 years. I give God all the glory because I trusted in him always no matter the obstacles I faced. My journey was different from my friends and classmates, but my life was just as successful because I never gave up. No matter what your faced with in life there is always hope for a better tomorrow if we trust in God and keep going. My dream now is to do something to give back by mentoring young teenage girls by sharing my journey.
The recipient of this award must be identified as a teen parent; been accepted into a 2-year college; 4-year university; trade/vocational or technical school; minimum 2.5 GPA.
Bettye A. Foy
(1942-2008)
Memorial Scholarship
*Sponsored by Creswell & Tracy Foy Jr."
Bettye Anne Briggs Foy was born in Perry, Florida and raised in Dade County. There she attended public schools and graduated from Miami Northwestern Senior High School. She furthered her education at Tuskegee University. She was a faithful member of First Titus Missionary Baptist Church where she served on the Deaconess Board; was a Sunday School Teacher; Superintendent of Sunday School; and secretary for Union St. James Missionary Association-Eastern District. Bettye believed in education and made sure her two sons had the opportunity to attend college.
With limited resources and a ton of faith, she spent every cent she had investing in their futures. In addition to her children, Mrs. Foy poured into every young person she came into contact with and encouraged them to pursue their dreams.
The Bettye A. Foy book scholarship will help a young person get one step closer to achieving their goals. This award will be given to a student who has been accepted into a 2-year college, or 4-year university; minimum 2.75 GPA; must be attending a HBCU.
The Carodine Group
Motivated Leaders
Book Scholarship
*Sponsored by Tasha Carodine*
I am Tasha Carodine, the proud owner of The Carodine Group, LLC, and Be Transformed Solutions. The Motivated Leaders Scholarship is a powerful initiative designed to empower exceptional students who demonstrate outstanding leadership, ambition, and a genuine commitment to making a positive difference in their communities and beyond. This scholarship honors individuals who not only excel academically but also take initiative, inspire others, and actively pursue meaningful change. We believe in recognizing and supporting the leaders of tomorrow who are dedicated to transforming the world around them.
The Motivated Leaders Scholarship aims to support students who:
• Exhibit strong leadership qualities in academics, extracurricular activities, or community service.
• Demonstrate perseverance, ambition, and a vision for creating a better future.
• Require financial assistance to pursue their educational and leadership goals.
Recipients of this scholarship must be...
A high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student; Have a minimum GPA of 2.5; Show a strong record of leadership, community involvement, or initiative in personal or professional endeavors; Submit a personal essay detailing their leadership journey, challenges overcome, and future aspirations.
A. Michele Kimbrough
Sweat Equity Scholarship
*Sponsored by Alice M. Kimbrough*
Alice Michele Kimbrough,
the dedicated founder of the Honey Dripper House Mobile Ice Cream truck & a 1987 graduate of Andrew Jackson High School is celebrating 14 years of bringing joy and sweetness to the Historic Eastside of Jacksonville, FL and surrounding areas. Since its inception, the mobile ice cream truck has become a beloved fixture in the community, serving both young and old with a delightful array of frozen treats.
Ms. Kimbrough is one that believes that having the proper tools is the only way to ensure success, thus this book scholarship will enable a deserving student to have the tools, books, needed to be one step closer to fulfilling their future goals. This award will be given to a student who has been accepted into a 2-year college, or 4-year university and has a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Platts Legacy
Book Scholarship
*Sponsored by Tasha Carodine*
The Platts Legacy Scholarship,
The Platts Legacy Scholarship was established to honor the significant and lasting impact of Ms. Ella Mae Platts, who demonstrated unwavering dedication to her family and community. Born in Hilliard, Florida, Ella Mae Platts devoted her career to education, serving with distinction in the Duval County School System before retiring from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida.
As a loving mother of eight children, 21 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren, her legacy will continue to thrive. She was also a treasured friend and an inspiring figure to many others. This scholarship is a powerful tribute to her exemplary values and contributions, aiming to empower individuals who embody her spirit of leadership, perseverance, and selfless service.
This scholarship is designed to assist students who:
• Demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to personal and professional growth.
• Embody the values and legacy of Ella Mae Platts through leadership, community involvement, or dedication to a specific field.
• Require financial support to pursue their educational and career aspirations.
The recipient of this award must be a graduating high school senior; 2.5 minimum GPA; demonstrate service, leadership, or achievement in areas aligned with the legacy of Ella Mae Platts.
Recipients of the Platts Legacy Scholarship are encouraged to honor the memory of Ella Mae Platts by continuing to make a difference in their communities, careers, and beyond. By investing in the education of passionate and driven individuals, this scholarship ensures that the honoree’s legacy continues for generations to come.
For more information or to apply, please visit: tkcarodine@thecarodinegroup.com.
Mary L. Frank
(1935-2022)
Legacy Scholarship
*Sponsored by Veronica Rhodes*
Mary L. Frank was a fiercely dedicated, supportive,
and loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was a devoted member of New First Corinth Missionary Baptist Church. She loved God and it showed in how she lived her life and how she treated everyone. Her only child, Mrs. Veronica (Frank) Rhodes is a proud graduate of Andrew Jackson High School (c/o of 1990). This scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior of AJHS with a GPA of 2.5-3.2, who has been accepted into the military, trade/vocational school, 2-year college, or 4-year university.
Kaila V. Johnson
Book Scholarship
*Sponsored by Kaila Johnson*
My name is Kaila Johnson, and I’ve always believed in the power of literacy and education to shape a person’s future. Growing up in a household where reading was not just encouraged but celebrated, I quickly learned that books could open doors to knowledge, opportunity, and self-discovery.
I pursued my higher education at Valdosta State University, where I earned a Bachelor's degree in Mass Media and a Master's in Communication—all while maintaining Dean’s List honors. My academic success and professional growth are rooted in a lifelong love of reading, and I believe every student deserves access to the books and resources that can help them thrive.
This scholarship is my way of giving back—supporting students who are walking the path I once did and ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed. I am inspired by the words of the great Maya Angelou: “When you learn, teach. When you get, give.” It’s in that spirit that I offer this scholarship—to share what I’ve gained and help others on their journey. This award will be given to a student who has been accepted into a 2-year college, or 4-year university and has a minimum 2.75 GPA.
Duval Ford
Big #1
Achievers Scholarship
.jpg)
1616 Cassat Avenue 32210
(904) 387-6541
duvalford.com
This scholarship will be awarded to a student with a 3.8 GPA or higher; who has demonstrated leadership qualities in & out of school; and has a minimum of 50 community service or volunteer hours.
​
Boss Lady Unlimited Enterprises of Florida
Housing Scholarship
*Sponsored by Stephanie J. Hart*
Stephanie J. Hart is an educator, author, and entrepreneur working to make a positive impact in the lives of young adults. Through her LLC & Brand "B.L.U. E". she is able to offer financial assistance to high school seniors pursing their academic and career goals. This award will be given to a student who has been accepted into a 2-year college or 4-year university and has a 3.0 minimum GPA
Boss Lady Unlimited Enterprises of Florida
Book Scholarship
*Sponsored by Stephanie J. Hart*
Stephanie J. Hart is an educator, author, and entrepreneur working to make a positive impact in the lives of young adults. Through her LLC & Brand "B.L.U. E". she is able to offer financial assistance to high school seniors pursing their academic and career goals. This award will be given to a student who has been accepted into a 2-year college or 4-year university and has a 2.75 minimum GPA.
Boss Lady Unlimited Enterprises of Florida
Vocational Scholarship
*Sponsored by Stephanie J. Hart*
Stephanie J. Hart is an educator, author, and entrepreneur working to make a positive impact in the lives of young adults. Through her LLC & Brand "B.L.U. E". she is able to offer financial assistance to high school seniors pursing their academic and career goals. This award will be given to a student who has been accepted into an accredited trade/vocational or technical school and has a 2.5 minimum GPA.
Boss Lady Unlimited Enterprises of Florida
General Scholarship
*Sponsored by Stephanie J. Hart*
Stephanie J. Hart is an educator, author, and entrepreneur working to make a positive impact in the lives of young adults. Through her LLC & Brand "B.L.U. E". she is able to offer financial assistance to high school seniors pursing their academic and career goals. This award will be given to a student who has been accepted into a 2-year college or 4-year university and has a 2.75 minimum GPA.
Thank You Jesus International Ministries, Inc.
Tech/Vocational/ STEM Scholarship
*Sponsored by Wayne & LaTonia McDonald*
Ratchet Roach Pest Control
Future Leaders Scholarship
*Sponsored by
Daryl L. Alvin, Jr.*
Thank You Jesus International Ministries Inc.
8973 Lem Turner Road. Jax, FL 32208
(904) 765-2555
​
A 5013c non-denominational church, established in 2010​​
Pastor’s Bio: Rosalind Joseph – ordained senior pastor TYJIM, married to Daniel (41 yrs) attended Stanton high school Jacksonville, Fl. Served as an Elder under Bishop Don Bernard (Believer’s in Christ Christian Center) and Trustee Board member under the late Rev. Isiah Johnson (First Titus Missionary Baptist Church)
Wayne McDonald – ordained pastor TYJIM; Married to Latonia (35 years); a 25-year employee of JEA; Pastor Wayne holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Development & Leadership, a Master of Biblical Counseling, and is finishing his Doctor of Theology degree. Our Mission is to promote the holistic development of all people, to teach, preach, and spread the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ throughout the world, to assemble regularly to worship, to promote outreach and missions, and to equip believers for a prosperous life, all for the glory of God. In keeping with our outreach and missions, we are sponsoring a scholarship for a first-generation college student pursuing an undergraduate degree or tech/vocational certification in any STEM field.
7643 Gate Parkway #104-182
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Ratchetroach.com
​
Ratchet Roach Pest Control believes that true success is not only measured by business growth, but by the impact we make in the community that supports us. As a locally owned and operated company rooted in Jacksonville, Florida, we take pride in serving families, neighborhoods, and businesses with care, integrity, and consistency.
Being established in 2017, Daryl L. Alvin Jr. built his company on resilience, real-life experience, and the belief that people deserve quality service and honest solutions. Daryl, being our founder, understands what it means to work hard, overcome challenges, and create opportunities through discipline and education. That is why giving back is a core part of who we are.
The Ratchet Roach Future Leaders Scholarship was created to invest in students who are motivated to build a better future for themselves and their community. We recognize that education, trade programs, and professional certifications can open doors, but not everyone has equal access to the financial support needed to take that next step.
Through this scholarship, Ratchet Roach Pest Control is committed to empowering the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. We serve our community because we are a part of it, and we believe that when we uplift others, we strengthen the future of Jacksonville as a whole.
This scholarship will be awarded to a student who has been accepted into trade/vocational or technical school, 2-year college, or 4-year university and has a 2.5 minimum GPA.
Bettye D. Jones
(1933 – 2019)
Book Scholarship
"Sponsored by Douglas & Emma Jones"
VIEZ Realty
Book Scholarship
"Sponsored by Rezell Carbert"
William Sr. & Annie Mae Hamilton
(1933-2008) (1931-2019)
Book Scholarship
"Sponsored by Doris & LaTarsha
Wilson
Our beloved mother, Bettye Douglas Jones, lived a life rooted in faith, service, and an unwavering belief in the power of education. She understood that knowledge was not only the key to opportunity, but also a pathway to purpose, independence, and generational change.
With a compassionate heart and a watchful eye on her community, she recognized that many young African American boys were growing up without the consistent presence and guidance of a father. Rather than simply acknowledge this reality, she chose to act. She became a quiet but powerful force of encouragement—uplifting, mentoring, and investing in the futures of the young men she encountered.
Throughout her life, whenever she met a young man striving to better himself through education, she would plant a seed—sometimes through kind words, sometimes through financial support, but always through genuine belief in his potential. She reminded them that their circumstances did not define them, and that discipline in the classroom could open doors far beyond their current surroundings.
After dedicating 30 years of service to the State of Florida, she entered retirement not as a time of rest, but as a new chapter of purpose. For the next 20 years, she continued her mission—encouraging young men daily to dream bigger, reach higher, and pursue their education with determination and pride.
The Bettye D. Jones Scholarship Fund was established to honor her extraordinary legacy of giving, mentorship, and love. This scholarship will support one African American male in his pursuit of higher education, carrying forward her vision that every young man deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of the obstacles he may face.
Through this fund, her spirit lives on—continuing to plant seeds, inspire hope, and change lives for generations to come.
Founded in February 2024, VIEZ Realty is a purpose-driven real estate company rooted in the heart of Jacksonville, Florida. Established by a proud Northside native, the firm was built on a powerful vision—to expand access to homeownership through meaningful partnerships, strategic guidance, and service rooted in integrity.
VIEZ Realty was created for individuals at every stage of their journey. For those who know exactly what they want but need the right representation, and for those still discovering what’s possible but seeking direction—this is where clarity meets execution. The company bridges the gap between desire and attainment by providing professional insight, education, and unwavering advocacy.
With a resilient and client-focused approach, VIEZ Realty specializes in serving first-time homebuyers, military families, and luxury clientele. The mission is not just to facilitate transactions, but to create aligned partnerships that position clients for long-term success and ownership.
At its core, VIEZ Realty stands as a trusted real estate partner—committed to elevating experiences, building wealth through property ownership, and ensuring every client is confidently Positioned & Secured. This award will be given to a student who has been accepted into a 2-year college or 4-year PWI.
Mr. & Mrs. William and Annie Mae Hamilton Sr. built their family's foundation on Faith, Love, Education, and Service. They modeled these attributes that have made a significant impact within their lineage and those whom they encountered. The value in education was lovingly supported with diligence, honor, and grace.
This award will be given to a student who has been accepted into a 2-year college or 4-year university.