The 2025 Unsung Hero Award has been selected. Thank you to all who applied! We look forward to offering this award in 2026.

 

Shiloh was chosen for this grant because he reminds us of someone who made a quiet but powerful impact—Adam Wolff. Adam was the kind of person who always showed up. Whether you needed a laugh, a shoulder to cry on, or someone to fight for what mattered, he was there. He believed in family, hard work, and doing what’s right for children—not for recognition, but because it mattered.

That same spirit lives in Shiloh.

Like Adam, Shiloh’s story is one of quiet strength. Head Start opened his eyes to the power of education and the value of giving back. Through challenges and tough choices, he’s leaned on the values of family, commitment, and community. As Shiloh wrote, “They might seem small, but they matter.” Adam lived by that truth.

Shiloh’s impact is often behind the scenes—supporting a friend, helping his community, stepping up for a child. He’s not in it for the spotlight. He just wants to make a difference—and he does.

This award honors heart, hope, and those who lift others up when no one’s watching. That’s why Shiloh was chosen. That’s why he matters.

Just like Adam did.

Shiloh, congratulations!


PA Head Start "The Unsung Hero" Award
In Memory of Adam Wolff, 2025
Sponsored by
Lakeshore Learning



The
PA Head Start "The Unsung Hero" Award recognizes the exceptional contributions of individuals associated with early childhood education while supporting future leaders and changemakers. This award provides $3,000 to a graduate of a Head Start program pursuing higher education.


Who is eligible to apply?
  • Applicants must be graduates of a Head Start program. 
  • Applicants currently reside in Pennsylvania, but could pursue school out of state.
  • Applicants must currently be pursuing higher education (e.g., college, university, trade school, or other post-secondary education) by proof of a submitted college application or other eligible documentation.

Qualifications for Consideration
The Unsung Hero Award recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond in meaningful ways. Applicants should demonstrate at least one of the following:

  • Family Commitment: Has taken on responsibilities beyond their years, such as caregiving for family members, assisting with household needs, or supporting siblings in educational or personal development.
  • Community Engagement: Actively contributes to their community through volunteerism, advocacy, or leadership in local initiatives that create a positive and lasting impact.
  • School Involvement: Consistently shows dedication to academic excellence, mentorship, or extracurricular activities while also supporting peers or educators in ways that go beyond what is typically expected.
  • Workplace Dedication: Maintains employment while balancing academic and personal responsibilities, demonstrating a strong work ethic, perseverance, and a commitment to personal or family financial stability.

Purpose of the Award
This award aims to offset educational expenses, supporting Head Start graduates as they pursue their goals. Funds will be distributed in the form of gift cards to provide flexibility in their use.
Please complete all sections of this application and submit it, along with the required documents, by March 31, 2025. Submit your application to [email protected].

If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected].