March 11, 2025 (Atascadero, CA) — Vineyard Team is excited to announce that applications for the Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship are open now through March 31 for children of California’s vineyard and winery workers! This community-funded program is dedicated to transforming lives by increasing graduation rates and developing a qualified workforce that will contribute to the future of our communities.
The scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors or high school graduates who have never attended college. Eligible applicants must be employed or have a parent or guardian employed or contracted by the vineyard and winery industry, reside in California, and plan to enroll as a full-time student for at least one year at a trade school, or a two- or four-year college.
More than a Scholarship
The Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship isn’t just about tuition—it’s about long-term success. In addition to offering multi-year scholarships, the program provides recipients with a dedicated mentor to guide them through their collegiate journey. Mentorship combined with financial support ensures that students have the resources to thrive academically and professionally.
This investment is making a tangible impact: 98% of past recipients have been the first in their families to attend college. Through the generosity of the community, this program is breaking barriers and opening doors to new opportunities for students who may have otherwise faced insurmountable challenges.
Success Stories
Alberto, a scholarship recipient from the small town of Shandon, California, grew up working in agriculture alongside his father. From a young age, he was told he wouldn’t amount to much, but the hard work he witnessed in the fields pushed him to excel in school. “My experience in the vineyard motivated me to get a better education to eventually repay my parents for what they’ve done for me,” he shares. Today, Alberto is pursuing his master’s degree in viticulture at Fresno State, proving that determination and opportunity can change lives.
Denise, another recipient, is making the most of her time at Yale University. As the first in her family to attend college, she is thriving academically and socially. She has maintained an impressive GPA, earned distinguished honors, and engaged in numerous extracurricular activities, including Ballet Folklórico Mexicano de Yale. Denise is also deeply committed to public policy and social justice, with aspirations to advocate for underrepresented communities.
These students are just two examples of how the Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship is shaping the future of our communities. By investing in education, this scholarship does more than change individual lives—it strengthens families, industries, the entire state of California, and beyond.
Join Us in Supporting the Next Generation
The Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship is made possible through the generosity of donors who believe in the power of education. We invite individuals, businesses, and organizations to invest in the next generation by contributing to this life-changing program. Together, we can ensure that more students like Alberto and Denise have the opportunity to achieve their dreams and build a brighter future for all.
For more information or to apply, visit www.vineyardteam.org/scholarship before the March 31 deadline.
In partnership with Must! Charities.
About Vineyard Team
Arising from growers’ interest to educate and guide themselves towards sustainable winegrowing practices, Vineyard Team has become an internationally recognized leader in the sustainability movement since 1994.
