Our
Scholarships

The Orion Scholarship is the largest and most prestigious award offered through The Giving Universe Project. Named after the constellation "Orion" that has guided explorers and dreamers for centuries, this scholarship represents light, direction, and limitless potential. This constellation also has special meaning to our project as it was the first constellation and nebula seen by our founder during her recovery. 

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Designed for high school seniors preparing to enter college, the Orion Scholarship provides the essential tools and support to help students begin their next chapter with confidence and clarity.

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Recipients Receive

• A brand-new laptop to power their academic journey

• Beats headphones for focus, creativity, and connection

• The Stars Award —  (to help with clothing or shoes) as a symbolic gesture recognizing resilience and grace in motion.

• Six months of mentorship through The Giving Universe Project, pairing each recipient with an experienced guide who offers encouragement, insight, and accountability throughout their transition to college
   

Our Mission

The Orion Scholarship is more than an award — it’s a launchpad. By combining tangible resources with mentorship, this scholarship helps students not only reach for the stars but also stay grounded as they navigate new beginnings.

The Lumen Award is presented to families of students entering high school who demonstrate resilience, potential, and a commitment to their future.
“Lumen,” meaning light, represents the spark of curiosity and hope that ignites as students begin a new chapter of learning.

This award provides essential school supplies to help each recipient start high school with confidence, equipped for success.
 

Recipient Receives

• A backpack filled with essentials

• Notebooks (college-ruled, composition, and spiral)

• Binders and dividers for organization

• Pens, pencils, and highlighters

• Graphing or scientific calculator (depending on grade level)

•  Portable storage

• Planner or academic calendar

• Beats headphones or earbuds

• The Stars Award gift card (to help with clothing or shoes)
   

Purpose

The Lumen Award helps bridge the gap between middle and high school by ensuring students have both the tools and encouragement they need to shine. It honors not just academic potential but also the families who support these students on their journey. “Every spark matters — when one light begins to shine, the whole universe grows brighter.”

The Stars Award represents the beauty of small but meaningful gestures — reminders that even the smallest act of generosity can lift and inspire.
 

Presented in partnership with our friends at CONVERSE, these awards come in the form of gift cards in various increments. They are given both individually and as part of larger recognitions, such as the Orion Scholarship.

Like the stars themselves, this award symbolizes resilience, energy, and life — a testament to the idea that great impact can come from even the lightest touch.

Whether received on its own or alongside other honors, each Stars Award celebrates the spirit of giving and the endless ripples that follow every kind act.