Left to Right: Jeff Willis; Debbie White, Fund Representative; Billy White; Heather Trader of the Community Foundation; Ryan Whittington.
Past Fire Chief Steve White of the Parsonsburg Volunteer Fire Company will be honored with a memorial scholarship in his name for his many contributions to the community. Friends and family who established the scholarship hope to help those who wish to begin or advance their training in emergency services. White, a lifelong resident of Parsonsburg was a 40-year veteran of the department where he served as Fire Chief for 20 years.
“I am so grateful to know that these scholarships, given in memory of Steve, will help others see their career dreams come true,” said White’s wife Debbie White. “His greatest joy was in helping and encouraging others. I can’t thank the community enough for helping to carry on Steve’s legacy.”
Throughout his courageous battle with cancer, White continued to help others and give back to the community. Often described as humble and selfless, his gifts to the community include an impressive list of brave acts, volunteerism, advocacy, and fundraising. However, of all his contributions and achievements, Steve considered his greatest accomplishment to be the scores of young people he mentored, recruited and believed in.
“Steve inspired me and many others to pursue our dreams of helping others,” says Ryan Whittington, a Deputy Fire Marshal for Ocean City and adopted son of White. “Now through this scholarship, Steve will continue to inspire future emergency services personnel for generations to come.”
The scholarship, which is held at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, will create annual educational financial assistance for those wishing to further their career. Areas of study may include Emergency Medical Services (EMS), fire science, and for those currently volunteering or employed in the field of EMS desiring to advance their certifications, inclusive of a Management Degree in a related field of study. This scholarship is a merit-based competition that focuses on rewarding ambitious, driven, goal-oriented individuals with a public safety career goal. To be eligible for the scholarship, you must volunteer with or be employed by a Maryland Fire Department.
To contribute to the Steven Edward White Memorial Scholarship Fund visit CFES.org/donate.
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About the Community Foundation: As leaders, grant makers, and stewards of philanthropy, the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore connects people who care to causes that matter for the common good of the Lower Eastern Shore. We are a 501c3 nonprofit with an inspiring history of fostering charitable endeavors, and have provided more than $67 million in grants and scholarships to the local community since 1984. We collaborate with individuals, families, and businesses to match their charitable interests with community needs and strengthen local nonprofits through grants and resources. We are devoted to improving our regional community and believe in the power of philanthropy.
