Vince Carter has always preached the importance of having an education. Now he is raising the stakes for the youths of Toronto.

Carter has announced the official launch of the Vince Carter Scholarship and Mentorship Program in the Toronto area of Canada. The scholarship, which amounts to $25,000 per student, will be primarily targeting high school students who have taken up a passion for sports, music, film, fashion, broadcasting, media, or science, technology, engineering, and math.

Statistics from the Toronto District School Board revealed the graduation rate for Black high school students is 69 percent and the dropout rate sits at 20 percent. The resources and support that will be provided through Carter’s program will be instrumental in changing the narrative.

“I am doing my part, now it’s time for you to do yours by reaching out to kids, extended family, friends, educators and share this opportunity,” Carter says in a statement.

The scholarship criteria require applicants to possess a passion in any of the mentioned academic pathways; reviews of academic scores, personal character, community service; a 500-word essay. 

Applicants are directed to the exclusive application portal  www.parismedia.org/community/ or email [email protected].