CHILLICOTHE, OH — The Chillicothe VA Medical Center is celebrating one of its own as Jasper Kern, a high school senior at Zane Trace High School, has been awarded the distinguished 2025 James H. Parke Memorial Scholarship. The national scholarship recognizes outstanding youth volunteers who have made significant contributions to the veteran community through the Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS) program.
Jasper has logged an impressive 800+ hours of volunteer service at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center, demonstrating exceptional dedication, compassion, and commitment to supporting local veterans. His service and leadership have made a lasting impact on both patients and staff.
“Jasper’s selfless devotion to our veterans is truly inspiring,” said officials at the Chillicothe VA. “He exemplifies the spirit of service that this award honors.”
The James H. Parke Memorial Scholarship is named after the VA’s first Director of Voluntary Service and founding father of the VAVS National Advisory Committee. Since its establishment in 1976, the memorial fund has provided scholarships to deserving youth volunteers across the country.
To be considered, students must complete at least 100 hours of volunteer service in a VA facility and meet several criteria including scholastic achievement, dependability, leadership, and a positive influence on both patients and staff. Each VA medical center is allowed to nominate one candidate annually.
The scholarship can be used toward tuition, books, supplies, room and board, or other educational expenses at the recipient’s school of choice, and must be utilized before the awardee’s 24th birthday.
Jasper’s dedication to serving others has not only earned him national recognition, but also serves as a powerful example of youth leadership and community impact.
Congratulations, Jasper, on this well-deserved honor!
