The District of Columbia Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) has opened applications for its 2026 "Rec for All: Play it Forward Scholarship," providing up to $5,000 to eligible local students pursuing post-secondary education. Applicants must be D.C. residents with a history of participation in DPR programming and must submit all required materials, including two letters of recommendation and a video, by the application deadline of July 10.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
To qualify for the scholarship, candidates must meet several baseline criteria established by the DPR. Applicants are required to be residents of Washington, D.C., and must have earned a high school diploma or an equivalent credential. A core component of the eligibility criteria is a demonstrated history of involvement with DPR programs.
Prospective scholars must be enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution, which includes universities, community colleges, or recognized vocational and technical training schools.
The application process requires a comprehensive submission packet. Beyond basic personal information, students must provide:
- Two Letters of Recommendation: These are required for the application.
- Video Submission: Applicants are required to produce a video as part of the submission.
- Financial Documentation: The selection committee evaluates the financial need of each applicant as part of the holistic review process.
How Recipients Are Selected
The DPR scholarship committee conducts a competitive review of all applications. The selection is based on a combination of factors rather than a single metric. Evaluators look at the completeness of the application, the clarity and ambition of the student’s stated career goals, the deadline adherence, and the applicant’s history of engagement with DPR programs.
The committee specifically weighs "financial need" alongside the student’s demonstrated commitment to their community and academic pursuits. Because the scholarship is designed to support students who have actively utilized city resources, consistent participation in DPR activities serves as a significant indicator for the selection board.
Deadlines and Program Impact
All application materials for the 2026 cycle must be submitted by the deadline of Friday, July 10. The program is designed to award scholarships to up to 40 students, with individual awards reaching a maximum of $5,000.
DPR officials emphasize that the initiative is intended to help local youth prepare for the future and realize their dreams through education. By investing in residents who have grown up within the city’s recreational system, the agency aims to foster long-term career success and community stability.
For those interested in applying or seeking further details on submission formats, the agency directs all inquiries to the official portal at RecForAll.com.