United Way Offers Community Service Scholarship

The United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties is pleased to announce the availability of the 2023 Mike Munchak Community Services Scholarship to assist high school seniors from Lackawanna, Wayne or Pike Counties, who plan to continue their education at an accredited university, college, or trade school in a two or four-year degree program. If selected, the 2023 recipient will receive a one-year award of $6,300 to commemorate Munchak’s #63, retired by the Houston Oilers. Funding for the award comes from proceeds of the Mike Munchak Charity Golf Classic and will be presented at this year’s 27th annual tournament, slated for this upcoming June at the Country Club of Scranton.

A 2001 enshrinee in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Mr. Munchak’s career has earned him accolades as both a player and a coach. Yet, it is his work off the field that led to a scholarship program being established by the United Way to honor his long-standing commitment to his hometown of Scranton and the people of the area.

“For the past 26 years, we’ve been honored to work with Mike and we remain grateful to him for his unwavering commitment to the people of our community,” said Gary Drapek, president of the United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties.

To be eligible for the scholarship, candidates must be actively involved in community service activities within programs/agencies receiving funds from the United Way of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties, be full-time residents and/or students of a school district within Lackawanna, Wayne or Pike Counties, and be accepted by an accredited university, college or trade school, in a two or four-year degree program track, for the 2023/2024 school year.

Additional requirements include a demonstrated financial need, academic achievement, agency recommendation and a track record of community service.

The 2022 scholarship recipient was Michael Watkins, a Scranton Preparatory High School graduate.  His community service accomplishments included the United Way Day of Caring, Boys and Girls Club, Scranton Cultural Center Food and Clothing Drives, St. Paul’s Block Party, Kettle Basketball Camp, visits to Mountain View Nursing

Center, Peer Tutoring and Orientation at Scranton Prep. 

Additionally, Watkins was a member of the National Honor Society, Dean’s Team, Vice President of the Business Club, Treasurer of Kiva Microfinance Club, President of Advanced Strategical Minds as well as an array of other clubs and activities.  The Scholarship Committee noted Michael’s superior GPA as well as the leadership qualities he exhibited throughout his time at Scranton Prep.

To be considered, completed applications must be postmarked no later than March 31, 2023. A complete listing of eligibility requirements and the application are available to complete (or download) at www.uwlc.net.  Any further questions can be directed to Frank Kincel at the United Way 570.343-1267 x233.