KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Since 2008, AMVETS Post 86 and its support organizations, the AMVETS Riders, the Sons of AMVETS,and Ladies Auxiliary, have provided graduating high school seniors scholarships through their Keystone Heights High Seniors Scholarships.

“The scholarship fund has been going on for years and it’s something we do for the community,” said member Jerry Keefner. Every year, graduating seniors submit their essays and the scholarship committee chooses the recipients. This year, the organization awarded 13 scholarships ranging from $500 -$1,000 and hosted an award ceremony.

Graduating seniors along with their families and friends attended the award ceremony. It started with an open prayer and a Pledge of Allegiance before Bob Alexander and Post Commander Bob Beinlich gave a brief welcoming speech. In addition, the event had guest speakers Mayor Nina Rodenroth and Lt. Col. Mark Alexander speak to the students. The students’ names then were announced as they received their checks.

“I thought it was great,” Beinlich said. “We had 13 scholarships and we had five or six the year before. It’s a big improvement.”

AMVETS Post 86 is a nonprofit civic organization that serves as a community hub for veterans to get together and connect. The post was founded in 1986 and offers their members a canteen, live music and entertainment.

“It’s a really great place to come in and socialize and make friends,” said trustee Jerry Johnsen. “It’s not like a local bar. We don’t put up with any stuff at our post.” The post also supports organizations such as the VA Hospital and the Fisher House Foundation. Lastly, they are very involved in their community. Besides awarding scholarships to senior high school students, the organization hosts fundraisers, supports community projects through monetary donations, and donates to the local food pantry.

“We do a lot for the community as much as we can and the people here really enjoy it,” Keefner said.

AMVETS Post 86 located at 6685 Brooklyn Bay Road.