Phil Rodgers Memorial Scholarship Fund
About This Scholarship:
The Phil Rodgers Memorial Scholarship, established by the Germantown Grove Club in Jim Thorpe, honors the legacy of Phil Rodgers, a lifelong Jim Thorpe resident and the founder of the Special Needs Fishing Derby. This scholarship recognizes students who embody Phil Rodgers’ dedication to inclusivity, service, and making a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs.
The Phil Rodgers Memorial Scholarship shall be a one-year, non-renewable award of at least $500 granted annually to a qualified graduating high school senior (or home-schooled student who has a state recognized graduation certificate/diploma) residing in Carbon County, PA.
Minimum qualifications for the scholarship include:
- Graduating high school senior with plans to attend an institution of higher education or advanced vocational training
- Demonstrated active involvement in the community
- Plans to pursue education and a degree in special education
- Financial aid may be considered. A copy of the Student Aid Index sheet from the student’s FAFSA will be requested as part of the application.
Deadline to Apply: May 25, 2025
Apply online here. If you have questions about the application, please contact CCCF at director@cccfoundpa.org or 610-730-2526.
Phil Rodgers
Philip Rodgers was born on January 13, 1924 and passed away on August 13, 2006.  A lifelong resident of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, Philip served his country proudly as a member of the US Army, between 1943 and 1947. He was a lifelong member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, American Legion Post 304, an active volunteer with the Red Cross, and an EMT with Fairview Ambulance. He was a dedicated member of the Jim Thorpe Memorial Park Comission, working to create meaningful community spaces.
Philip’s passion for the outdoors and nature led him to establish the Special Needs Fishing Derby in 1955 and in 2003 found the Germantown Grove Club.Â
On April 18, 1953,  Philip married the love of his life, Kathryn and together they raised ten children – five boys and five girls instilling the values of service, compassion, and community in their home. His legacy lives on in them today.
