We want everyone active in recreation activities - no matter what!
Merriam Parks and Recreation is committed to providing quality recreation opportunities to all resident households, regardless of their economic condition. Merriam families may be eligible to receive a scholarship for membership or other programs.
Registration fees support recreational programs offered by Merriam Parks and Recreation. To assist residents in offsetting those costs, scholarships are available to qualifying families. Scholarship funds are provided from private and civic group donations, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability.
Membership Scholarship
This scholarship helps Merriam families pay for a resident household membership. The goal is to keep kids active in recreational activities.
Eligible households may receive up to $420 per calendar year to use toward a resident household membership. Households will pay at least $20 per month toward membership costs.
Private organizations provide funds for these scholarships.
Dolphin Fund
The Dolphin Fund honors the lifelong friendship and mentorship of Dolphin Swim Team Coach Susan Cline. Through the Merriam Parks, Recreation, & Community Center Foundation, the fund supports low-income Merriam families. Eligible families receive up to $100 per year per youth toward swim team and swim lesson registration.
Senior Fit Class Pass Scholarship
This scholarship helps eligible Merriam seniors (60+), who are are members of the Merriam Community Center, have the opportunity to participate in a fitness classes at the Merriam Community Center. This membership add-on allows members to attend select classes as many times as they like. Eligible seniors will receive up to $240 per person per calendar year to be applied toward the purchase of a Fit Class Pass. Funding is limited and is provided through the Merriam Parks, Recreation & Community Center Foundation.
Eligibility
Membership Scholarship, Dolphin Fund Scholarship, and Senior FitClass Pass Scholarship
1. Proof of Merriam residency – proper identification includes a valid driver’s license, a state issued identification, current utility bill (electric, gas or water), current city business license, or Notice of Appraised Value issued by the Johnson County Assessor’s Office.
2. Proof of Public Assistance - documentation must include your name and address and must be from the current year. Accepted proof includes: Social Security or SSI (Supplemental Security Income); SNAP (Food Assistance), help from SRS, WIC food vouchers, free or reduced-price school lunch letter. Note: Insurance cards do not count unless they clearly show they are valid this year.
3. Household is defined as two adults and up to four (4) dependent children as defined by IRS Qualifying Age Rule at the same address. Children 18 – 24 must provide proof of residency. The IRS Qualifying Age Rule per the IRS website.
4. Age restrictions apply to Dolphin Fund Scholarships (under 18), FitClass Pass Scholarship (60+), and KanCare assistance.
5. Senior FitClass Pass Scholarship requires an active membership to the Merriam Community Center.
6. Completion of appropriate application.
Recipient Responsibilities
- No portion of the scholarships are transferable to another person. Remaining balances are not carried forward into the next calendar year.
- Recipients must follow all Merriam Parks and Recreation Department rules, regulations, and policies. Failure to do so will result in revocation of scholarship and loss of privileges.
- Scholarships do not apply to the purchase of class supplies.
- Scholarships are good for the current year; recipients must reapply each year.
- Recipients of Membership Scholarships will be responsible for $20 per month fee for annual household membership.
- Recipients of Dolphin Fund Scholarships and Senior FitClass Pass Scholarship will be responsible for 20% of program fee.
- Recipients of Senior FitClass Pass Scholarship must have an active membership to the Merriam Community Center.
How to Apply