Tom Slaughter, Jr. Memorial Youth Recreation Grant

The Vail Recreation District is proud to offer grants or scholarships for most of its youth activities. With the help of various community outreach programs and businesses, the VRD is able to afford need- and merit-based awards to deserving youth throughout the valley.

Tom Slaughter, Jr. was a Vail Valley resident who enjoyed the endless recreational opportunities the valley has to offer. In keeping with his spirit, the Tom Slaughter, Jr. Memorial Youth Recreation Grant awards funds to school-aged Eagle County youth to influence the constructive development of leisure and recreational skills. Funds can be used for any Vail Recreation District youth program and are awarded throughout the year.

Grant decisions are based mostly on financial need, but other factors such as the applicant's desire, ease of participation and positive growth benefits are also considered. 

Applicants may receive full, partial or no financial assistance from this grant request, which is administered by the Vail Recreation District.

Program funds are entirely fundraised, so the financial status of the account may affect the number of grants made in certain years. Grant recipients will receive notice for opportunities to help raise money for future program funds.

Please click on the links below to download an application in English or Spanish or contact the VRD offices at 970-479-2279.

Vail Scholar-Athlete Recognition Award - College Scholarship

The scholarship application period is open now until May 15, 2025.

The Vail Recreation District proudly awards the Vail Scholar-Athlete Recognition Award to one male and one female graduating senior each year in recognition of their outstanding academic and athletic achievements.

This $4,000 scholarship provides recipients with $1,000 per year for up to four years, contingent on continuous college enrollment and academic performance.

To remain eligible, recipients must:

• Be enrolled in a college or university for four consecutive years (gap years are not permitted).
• Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA throughout their studies.

How to Apply

To be considered, applicants must submit an online application by May 15 each year.

Please complete the "Online Vail Scholar Athlete Award Application" below.

If you cannot access the application below, please complete the application HERE.

For more information, contact the Vail Recreation District at info@vailrec.com.