A Legacy of Generosity and Kindness
Welcome to the Scholarships page at DeLoach Family Ties. We are proud to announce the James Ali Taylor Fund, a scholarship dedicated to honoring the legacy of James Ali Taylor, a remarkable individual known for his kindness and generosity. This fund aims to empower individuals pursuing their educational goals, reflecting James’s commitment to uplifting others. Detailed information about the scholarship and its application process will be available soon, so stay tuned for updates on how you can apply and carry forward James’s legacy of compassion and support.
Scholarship Details and Application
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the application available for completion?
The first Monday in January the application link will be available and must be completed by March 15th
of the same calendar year.
Where can I find the application link?
The first Monday in January the application link will be available and must be completed by March 15th
of the same calendar year.
What designated Newark Public Schools must senior students attend to apply for the scholarship?
- American High School
- Bard Early College High School
- Barringer High School
- Central High School
- Data Science and Information Technology H.S.
- Eagle Academy High School
- Eastside High School
- Malcolm X. Shabazz
Arts High School - Newark School of Data Science & Information Technology
- Newark Vocational High School
- Park High School
- University High School
- Weequahic High School
- Westside High School
What are the scholarship types and award amounts?
- Academic Excellence Scholarship ($2000)- must have minimum 3.5 GPA for all four years
- Leadership Development Scholarship ($1500)- must have a minimum 3.0 GPA for all four years
- Community Service Scholarship ($1000)- must have a minimum 2.75 GPA for all four years
What are the eligibility requirements to apply for the scholarship?
- Must volunteer for at least two DeLoach Family Ties events/activities for 4-6 hours per day
- Must be a high school senior graduating in the current scholarship cycle from a designated
Newark Public School - Must be accepted and attend a 4-year college or university as a full-time student
- Must meet the GPA requirements for each scholarship award
When will applicants be notified of a decision?
What can or cannot be done with the scholarship funds?
- Applicants are allowed to utilize the scholarship funds towards any college related expense of
their choice (for example, a computer, travel, books, food, hygiene products, etc.). - Students cannot use funds to pay household bills or any expenses not associated with basic
needs for college.
If funds are needed earlier than the disbursement dates, can exceptions be considered?
If there is a financial hardship, scholarship recipients can submit a written request to reason the
funds are needed earlier than scheduled.
What are the payment options for the scholarship recipient?
The preference is for students to have their own individual bank account in their name. All
funds can be sent directly via Zelle, Cash App, or a check can be mailed to the student. If there
are extenuating circumstances that prevent a student from opening an account, please
immediately contact DFT staff to discuss other options.
Can more than one person in the same household apply for the funding?
Yes, students in the same household can apply for all three scholarship areas of their choice.
As an applicant, can I apply for all three scholarship awards?
Yes, students can apply for all three scholarships. However, they can only receive one
scholarship among the three categories.
Is additional funding assistance available while attending college?
Although DFT is unable to provide monetary funds, we can assist with products or items that may be
needed during the college academic year.
Are there any other resources for financial support outside of Deloach Family Ties?
DFT is willing to assist with referrals for internships, temporary housing or other related issues,
but we are unable to provide finances due to our ongoing program services.
After the first disbursement check is there a college GPA requirement to receive the 2nd check?
No, there are no GPA requirements for the fall semester. Students will receive their 2nd check if
they are still enrolled in college on a full-time basis.
Is there an appeal process if I disagree with a decision or action taken by the Scholarship Committee or DFT?
Yes, there is an appeal process if a student’s essay is disqualified due to an AI score above 60. A
written email or letter must be addressed to the DFT Founders, Abu Muhammad and Victoria
DeLoach.
How long is the appeal process?
The process will take an estimated 7-10 days.
What type of volunteer tasks are required for community service with DFT? (Students must complete at least 8-12 hours before March 15th to be considered eligible for a scholarship)
- Sorting various items such as clothing, household goods, toys, etc.
- Event set up and break down of tables chairs, signage, clean-up from event.
- Assist with distribution tables
- Serve as a floater to provide breaks for other volunteers
Any other task - Administration deems necessary to assist with the event/function
Celebrating a Legacy
In recognition of James Ali Taylor’s extraordinary kindness and impact, we have received heartfelt resolution letters that celebrate his legacy. These letters reflect the profound influence he had on those around him and the community.
- Mayor Ras Baraka (Newark, NJ):
- Download Link: View the letter here.
- Louis Scott-Rountree (Council Member-At-Large):
- Download Link: View the letter here.
- City of Newark, NJ (Municipal Council):
- Download Link: View the letter here.
We invite you to read these letters as a testament to James’s enduring impact and the love he inspired in others. Together, we celebrate his legacy through the James Ali Taylor Fund. For more information, contact us.
Congratulations to Our First Annual Scholarship Recipients
We are proud to announce the winners of the First Annual James Ali Taylor Scholarship Fund. These outstanding students have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and a commitment to their communities. Join us in celebrating their achievements as they take the next step toward a brighter future.
Award Recipients:
- Estaban Mata – $2,000 Academic Achievement Award
- Kristina Aguirre – $1,500 Academic Leadership Development Award
- Jaminee Lott – $1,000 Community Service Award
Their success reflects the heart of our mission—to uplift and support the next generation through education.
