CHAMPIONS UNITE!
Michael Floyd electrified A Night of Excellence with an inspiring keynote that challenged our 2026 scholarship class – the real stars of the night – as a record-breaking crowd celebrated 40 years of transformation!
A NIGHT OF EXCELLENCE
45 RISING STARS WITH A LEGEND ON THE MIC
40 YEARS OF CHANGING LIVES
The Kiwanis Club of Carefree Benefit Foundation celebrated four decades of transformation at their 40th Annual Night of Excellence, honoring the 2026 scholarship class — students who exemplify focus, grit, and heart.
THE REAL STARS SHINE
The evening belonged to the scholarship recipients. These young people didn’t just dream big — they followed through, overcoming challenges and earning recognition through tireless effort. Behind every accomplishment stood the heroes who believed in them: parents, teachers, coaches, mentors, friends, and a host of returning scholarship alumni.
A LEGACY OF SUPPORT
The foundation’s commitment to these students is staggering: nearly $2 million invested in the community this past year, with $550,000 dedicated to scholarships. To date, close to $5 million in scholarships have been awarded, transforming countless lives in the community.
A CHAMPION’S MESSAGE
Michael Floyd, a Super Bowl champion and Notre Dame All-American, delivered a powerful keynote speech: true excellence isn’t just about individual achievement — it’s about overcoming challenges and lifting others up. His message resonated deeply with the scholarship class: that vulnerability and resilience are marks of true strength.
LOOKING FORWARD
As the 2026 scholarship class steps into their futures, they do so knowing they’re part of something extraordinary. They’re not just scholarship recipients — they’re the next generation of change-makers, ready to pay it forward in a community that refuses to stand still when there’s good to be done.
MEET THE 2026 SCHOLARSHIP CLASS
The Kiwanis Club of Carefree Benefit Foundation celebrates these exceptional students—the next generation of leaders.
THREE EXCEPTIONAL STUDENTS HONORED
Made possible with the help of our generous community partners.
HAYLEY MASTERSON
The Scully Learning Center Foundation Scholarship honors Paula and Bill Scully’s legacy and their belief that true impact comes from serving where the need is greatest. Through this scholarship, we celebrate their commitment to dignity, independence, and meaningful community integration, and recognize a graduating senior who demonstrates a commitment to inclusion, service, and uplifting others.
ZOE MACMILLAN
The Peter Carpenter Honorary Scholarship honors a dedicated Kiwanis leader whose passion for service enriched our community. Pete served as Club President and Lieutenant Governor, generously guiding Key Club members. This scholarship recognizes a graduating senior who demonstrates exceptional service and commitment to their Key Club.
YUJIN JEON
The Champion for Kids Donor Award celebrates the generosity of our community partners who believe in investing in our students’ futures. Through their direct contributions, we recognize and support a deserving graduating senior as they pursue their educational journey.
EVENT SPONSORS
WITH GRATITUDE TO THESE ALLIES WHO HELPED POWER OUR CELEBRATION
COULDN’T ATTEND?
CELEBRATE WITH US ANYWAY AND HELP TRANSFORM LIVES
YOU CAN STILL BE A HERO FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
Your gift goes directly to student scholarships, helping graduating high school seniors cover tuition, books, fees, and class materials at the college, university, or trade school of their choice. Every donation, big or small, gives these students a brighter future.
Join the Celebration of Giving
Choose your level of impact — starting at just $25 — and join our generous circle of supporters. Even from home, you’re helping us make this milestone year unforgettable.
SEE WHY WE DO IT
Watch this short video to meet one of the many students we’ve helped and discover how your generosity transforms lives.