Local organization awards $60,000 in scholarships to area seniors

Do The Right Thing – Greater Palm Springs announced it has awarded $60,000 in scholarships to 47 graduating seniors from the Coachella Valley at an event held Wednesday at Desert Learning Academy.

The recipients represented all 14 high schools in the three Coachella Valley school districts, with individual scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $1,500. This was the second year the organization headed by Dr. Terri Ketover has handed out scholarships. With this year’s awards, a total of $100,000 has gone to local students.

High school counselors had nominated graduating seniors who needed financial assistance for further education, training or entry into the workforce.

“We had not initially intended to fund every student nominated,” said Dr. Terri Ketover, Do The Right Thing founder and CEO. “But in reviewing the applications, we were struck by the level of need that exists and opted to provide scholarships to all of these very deserving students.

“We believe that our sponsors and donors provide funds to help youth that are struggling today, and are confident they will continue to support this life changing program next year and into the future.”

The event also included the organization’s monthly award ceremony recognizing eight outstanding students submitted by teachers and principals from Palm Springs, Desert Sands, and Coachella Valley Unified School Districts. Each award recipient received not only a plaque and certificate, but also gift cards and other prizes valued at $700.

Raymond Martinez from Raymond Cree Middle School in Palm Springs was one of eight students selected from 300 nominees to receive the honor at the event held by the Palm Springs-based organization.

Martinez, a sixth-grader who participates in the dual immersion program and demonstrates proficiency in both English and Spanish, was praised by his nominator for his academic excellence and leadership qualities. According to his nomination, Martinez has consistently shown dedication, perseverance and curiosity in his studies while displaying kindness and genuine care for his peers.

The nomination noted that Martinez has demonstrated leadership by advocating for solutions to playground conflicts and striving to create a positive environment for others. He also enriches his school community through participation in the school band and Grupo Folklorico.

“Raymond’s dedication, kindness and commitment to doing the right thing make him an amazing role model for his peers,” Ketover said, reading from his nomination.

Do The Right Thing encourages positive behavior in school-age children and showcases youth who are improving themselves and their community. The program aims to foster self-esteem in young people by reinforcing positive behavior and to establish these young people as role models for their peers.

“This program has made a big impact in our community,” said Palm Springs Police Chief and Do The Right Thing Board Vice President Andy Mills. “Young people need to be recognized for doing good deeds and making good choices.”

To date, more than 2,000 youth in the valley have been honored.

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