Applications are being accepted until August 31st, 2025.
Program Overview
The Vivian Lee Foundation (VLF) Rise Forward Scholarship Fund & Ambassador Program is designed to support individuals living with cystic fibrosis and their families by providing financial assistance and empowering recipients to share their stories, inspire others, and serve as visible ambassadors of hope and resilience.
Scholarship Purpose
This program offers recipients both a monetary scholarship in the amount of $3,000 and a platform to advocate for the CF community. Selected individuals will receive the award in two installments and commit to a 12-month ambassador role to help raise awareness, build connection, and amplify the mission of VLF.
Scholarship Award
Total Award: $3,000
Disbursement:
- 50% upon acceptance, Awarded October 1st, 2025
- 50% awarded January 1st, 2025
Eligibility Criteria
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Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis
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No age limit (if applying for a patient under the age of 18, parent or legal guardian may fill out application)
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U.S. resident
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Demonstrate financial need and proof how funds will be used
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Willingness to publicly share story, photo, and participate in outreach
The Vivian Lee Foundation Scholarship is designed to provide flexible financial support to individuals living with cystic fibrosis (CF). Recipients may use their scholarship award for a wide range of needs related to medical care, emotional well-being, and personal development. Below is a detailed list of eligible uses:
Medical & CF-Specific Care
Out-of-pocket medical expenses related to CF treatment
Medications not fully covered by insurance
Respiratory equipment and supplies (nebulizers, vests, etc.)
Travel and lodging for clinic visits, specialist appointments and hospitalizations
Medical copays and insurance premiums
Nutritional supplements and feeding tube supplies
Major Health Events
Lung transplant-related expenses (pre- and post-surgery)
Post-transplant medication support
Home modifications for medical accessibility
Caregiver costs or in-home recovery support
Loss of Income / Financial Relief
Temporary income loss due to hospitalizations or medical leave
Financial support for caregiver parents/guardians
Education & Personal Growth
Tuition for college, trade school, or continuing education
Online courses, certifications, or GED completion
Books, supplies, or technology for academic use
Tutoring or academic support services
Mental & Emotional Health
Therapy or counseling sessions
CF-specific mental wellness or support group programs
Quality of Life & Social Connection
Adaptive recreational or wellness activities (sports, yoga, camps and other physical activities)
Creative outlets for healing (art, music, writing)
Application Requirements
Pre-Screening Application-Once your pre-screening application has been submitted, if approved you will be sent the full application which includes the following:
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Essay Questions:
What challenges have you faced living with CF, and how have you overcome them?
How has your CF journey shaped your goals or perspective?
Why do you want to be a VLF Ambassador?
How would this scholarship be used?
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Video Submission (A 2–3 minute video introducing yourself, your CF journey, and what receiving this scholarship would mean to you.)
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Letter of Recommendation: from a teacher, mentor, employer, or healthcare provider who knows your character and potential.
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Consent & Release Form
Selection Process
- Round 1: Application & video review (Submissions due August 31st, 2025)
- Round 2: Virtual interview with selection committee, this may include VLF board members, CF caregivers, and past event participants
- Final decisions will be announced no later than September 20th, 2025
Ambassador Commitment (12 Months)
This opportunity includes a year-long commitment as a VLF Ambassador — someone who is willing to share their story, raise awareness, and become a visible voice for the CF community. Ambassadors will be asked to share photos, updates, and a portion of their personal journey through social media, website features and public presentations in person or in a video. This role is about connection — not perfection — and we welcome those who are honest, creative, and compassionate!
Program Impact
Through the Rise Forward Scholarship Fund & Ambassador Program, VLF aims to:
- Amplify the voices of those living with CF
- Support educational, career, or personal development goals
- Strengthen our community through storytelling and visibility