2026 Civic engagement ScHOLARSHIP
The Eleanor Roosevelt Independent Democrats Club (ERID) is pleased to announce a new scholarship opportunity for eligible NYC high school students! ERID is the official Democratic club for Parts B and D of New York State's 74th Assembly District, which include the neighborhoods of Union Square, Gramercy, Flatiron, Kips Bay, Murray Hill, Flatiron District, Tudor City, Turtle Bay, and Midtown East.
ERID will award up to seven $500 scholarships to high school seniors attending New York City public high schools, with priority given to those schools within the boundaries of Manhattan’s Assembly District 74, Parts B and D. See below for a list of priorty schools, but note all graduating seniors may apply, regardless of district. The scholarship program is aimed at encouraging civic engagement by local youth.
Scholarships:
At least two $500 scholarships will be awarded by ERID, to be paid by check to scholarship winners in one lump sum in April 2026.
Eligible students are high school seniors who:
Attend a NYC public high school, with priority given to those schools within Manhattan’s Assembly District 74, Parts B and D. See below for a list of priority schools. All graduating seniors may apply, regardless of district.
Have a plan for attending a post-secondary program (two- or four-year college or work-based program).
There is no minimum GPA or financial needs requirement for this scholarship, although priority will be given to students who live in Manhattan’s Assembly District 74, Parts B and D.
Students must complete the form (linked below) and submit an original response to the following essay question (maximum of 1,000 words):
“Why is it important to be involved in civic organizations or activities at a local level?
Describe what your engagement has been and why you believe that engagement has contributed to your community.”
Please submit your application to ERID as soon as possible. The current due date is January 30, 2026, although this may be extended in the discretion of ERID. A committee of three ERID members will read each submission and select the winners. Criteria will include completeness of submission and quality and of essay response.
Scholarship winners will be notified by March 6, 2026.
School Staff: Please share details on this scholarship opportunity with your students. Have them submit their application via ERID’s website as soon as possible.
Priority Schools: Academy for Software Engineering, American Sign Language & English Secondary School, Baruch College Campus HS, Gramercy Arts High School, High School for Health Professions and Human Services, High School for Language and Diplomacy, Institute for Collaborative Education, International High School at Union Square, Manhattan Comprehensive Night and Day High School, Manhattan Comprehensive Night and Day High School and School of the Future
Scholarship Application
Any questions? Contact us at eridscholarship@gmail.com Thank you!