Joseph James Morelli Legacy Foundation

Scholarship program: the Foundation supports young adults with learning differences by awarding scholarships to college students with dyslexia who wish to pursue a degree in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (stem) field. The scholarship funds can be applied towards tuition, testing, tutoring, adaptive services and accommodations. The scholarship recipients tell us that the scholarships and the Foundation's other programs offer recognition and validate their struggles. In 2023, the Foundation provided scholarships to 72 students with dyslexia attending various u.s. educational institutions.

Educational outreach program: the purpose of the program is to educate and inform on the needs of students with learning disabilities such as dyslexia, which includes the support, accommodations, and resources that are necessary. Families even today are still fighting across this country to get resources that enable their children with learning disabilities to get the accommodations they are legally entitled to under the individuals with disabilities education act. The Foundation partners with like-minded organizations, provides support and participated in events that educate and promote awareness of these needs. The Foundation also has focused on creating a sense of community for the scholarship recipients and families.

Mentoring program: the program pairs college freshmen with peer mentors to help them navigate the challenges that college presents, particularly for students with learning differences. Mentors are current or former scholarship recipients, either upperclassmen or recent graduates. The mentors support their mentees and help equip them with skills they need to confidently succeed. There were 12 pairs of students in the spring semester and 20 pairs in the fall semester. The program is expanding to provide additional support and guidance to the mentors.