The Public Education Foundation was proud to join our community to recognize the anniversary of 1 October at the JusRun Vegas Strong 5K and honor those affected by the tragic events of October 1, 2017. Proceeds from the event support the Vegas Strong Compassion Scholarship for children who are survivors of the 58 people who lost their lives and the Vegas Strong Future First Responders Scholarship.

PEF is honored to facilitate a variety of post-secondary scholarships to individuals affected by 1 October and the first responder community through the Scholarships PLUS program, including:

The Children of the 58 Scholarship was created in honor of Neysa Tonks, who tragically lost her life on 1 October. Neysa’s parents, Chris and Debbie Davis, and sister, Mynda Smith, joined to establish this scholarship as a lasting legacy to Neysa, who did not attend college herself, and was passionate about ensuring her children studied hard, earned good grades and put college in their plans.

The Vegas Strong Fund has directed approximately $1.5 million in funds to the Vegas Strong Compassion Scholarship. This scholarship provides post-secondary funds to children of the 58 people who lost their lives during the tragic events of October 1, 2017.

College-bound seniors and current college students who have been affected by the 1 October tragedy and who have demonstrated a financial hardship or plan on pursuing an area of study in high needs may apply for the Vegas Strong Helping Hands scholarship. Areas in need include Accounting, Education, Health Care and Medical Services, Information Technology, and STEM related areas.

Clark County seniors who are dependents of a first responder may apply for the Vegas Strong First Responders’ Dependent scholarship. The parent/guardian may be a first responder in any field such as police, fire, healthcare, nonprofit or government disaster relief.

Clark County seniors who are pursuing post-secondary education to become a first responder in any field such as police, fire, healthcare, nonprofit or government disaster relief may apply for the Vegas Strong Future First Responders scholarship.

Anyone wishing to support these scholarships can make a donation at https://thepef.org/scholarship-donation