College junior Shardy Camargo didn’t start her own business but says that the retreats taught her how to scour for scholarships as a means of graduating debt free. The estimated 2011-12 tuition for an in-state student at the University of Central Florida is $14,700. Camargo says she hasn’t paid a dime. “I didn’t think I would be able to go to college because of my financial situation, but the retreat taught me about all the scholarship websites and how to present myself in the best way.†She has been awarded numerous grants and scholarships, both academic and merit based, through websites such as Fastweb.com and including a private scholarship from Coca-Cola for $20,000 over four years; The Prudential Spirit of Community Scholarship, a one-time scholarship in the amount of $5,000 for school and $5,000 to the charity of her choice; the UCF Minority Scholarship in the amount of $10,000 over four years. Additionally, she was selected for the KFC Colonel’s Scholar Program, and an internship with Bank of America’s Neighborhood Excellence Initiative as a student leader where she earned $10 an hour and used the money for books and other supplies. She has translated her lessons on leadership to her campus by continuing her advocacy work for the homeless as a campus homeless and hunger volunteer coordinator, organizing volunteer opportunities at food banks and shelters. She also mentors homeless youth.
Revolution Leadership Inc. is no stranger to receiving accolades. It was awarded a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition by the United States House of Representatives for its work in the community in 2009 and the Orlando Magic Maker Award, which recognizes people in the community who strive to make a difference in the lives of others, in 2010.
“This is certainly my life’s mission. Regardless of where I am in life or what I am doing, I am committed to giving back and making a difference in the lives of students. I believe it is my calling in life.â€
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