To the Class of 2026
Seven years ago, we started investing in Frankfort kids. We built KRUSH groups, we planned programs, we assigned teen mentors and we got focused. The goals of our teen programs have always been to build reilience, encourage hope and explore potential among so many other sidequests.
This year, we have 17 kids graduating high school in Frankfort. Many of them are moving on to college. Some of them are graduating with college credits. There’s honors and awards. Scholarships. Jobs. Driver’s Licenses. Our little adults are adulting.
As a staff, we have been talking about this moment in time for years. We knew it was coming, but wow has it come quick. This month, and forever, we celebrate this class of kids. They have our whole heart and we will always cheer them on.
Children with an incarcerated parent are about 2–3 times more likely to drop out of high school. That’s just one of our reasons to exist. Working with our teens and helping them prepare for the future is rewarding and benefits our community as a whole. This year, we hosted a dinner in celebration of our graduates, scholarship awardees and the village of support that surrounds us and our teens.
Since 2019, Wanda J has awarded 24 seniors (including five new this year) the Adam Hyatt Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years and is awarded to graduating seniors who overcame obstacles that weren’t always theirs to face and who persevered to accomplish their goals. This scholarship, named for a beloved Frankfort teacher and Wanda J volunteer, is just one way we lend our support and love to Frankfort’s youth.
Out of respect for our seniors, we do not often share personal responses or stories from their applications or life. Each year, our scholarship committee reviews all applications and presents their recommendations to our board who make the final decision on awards. Here are some powerful quotes from this year’s scholarship applications:
In my life, I have chosen to forgive my dad even with his choice and pick to become better than him and not ever walk in his footsteps.
My life has been shaped by the reality of having incarcerated parents, a challenge I did not choose but one that has deeply influenced who I am today.
Every challenge taught me discipline, empathy, and perseverance. I learned that my circumstances did not have to define my outcome, and that my past could become a source of strength rather than shame.
I want to be an example that adversity does not limit your future, it can strengthen it and become the foundation for success.
Wanda J raises money for our scholarship throughout the year utilizing private donations and fundraising events. Our annual golf scramble held in May was created especially for this reason. We appreciate the support of the community in awarding our scholarship and making a difference in the lives of our kids. A special thank you to our 2026 presenting sponsor Lee Building Products.
2026 Scholarship Recipients:
Amiya Thurman
Carliegh Mullins
Izzy Bowman
Kayleigh Curry
Zay Brown
Please join us in congratulating these deserving seniors and wishing them the best of luck as they pursue their dreams!