LELS benevolent fund
Annual Scholarship program
Investing in the Future of Public Safety
The LELS Benevolent Fund is proud to support individuals preparing for careers in law enforcement and public safety through our Annual Scholarship Program.
Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) is Minnesota’s largest public safety labor union, representing police officers, firefighters, 911 telecommunicators, corrections professionals, and public safety support personnel.
Through this scholarship program, we are committed to encouraging and assisting the next generation of public safety professionals as they complete their education and training.
scholarship eligibility
At the time of application, applicants must be enrolled in one of the following:
The final year of a Minnesota POST-approved Law Enforcement Program
A Law Enforcement Skills Program
An accredited Criminal Justice Program
Scholarship funds must be used toward tuition, skills training, or other eligible educational expenses related to the applicant’s qualifying program.
application requirements:
A complete application must include the following:
Nomination Letter from an LELS Member
Applicants must be nominated by a current member of an LELS local.
The nominating LELS member must submit a letter that:
Identifies their relationship or connection to the applicant
Expresses their support for the applicant
Explains why they believe the applicant is deserving of an LELS scholarship
Applicant Essay or Personal Statement
Applicants must submit an essay or written synopsis addressing:
Their interest in and goals for a career in law enforcement or public safety, whether in a licensed or non-licensed position
Why they have chosen to pursue a career serving the public
Their financial need and how receiving an LELS scholarship would assist them in completing their education or training
Enrollment and Contact Information
Applicants must also provide:
A receipt, proof of payment, registration confirmation, enrollment verification, or other documentation demonstrating enrollment in and/or payment for an eligible Law Enforcement, Skills, or Criminal Justice Program
Current contact information, including:
Mailing address
Mobile phone number
Email address
scholarship award:
The LELS Benevolent Fund awards several thousand dollars in scholarships annually.
Scholarship awards are intended to help deserving applicants offset the cost of completing the education and training necessary to begin a career in law enforcement or public safety.
application deadline:
April 1 of Each Calendar Year
Complete applications and all required supporting materials must be received by the deadline.
how to apply:
Applications may be submitted by mail or email
By Mail:
Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc.
Attention: Board of Directors
2700 Freeway Boulevard
Brooklyn Center, MN 55430
By Email:
Email to: cdeans@lels.org
questions:
For additional information regarding the LELS Benevolent Fund’s Annual Scholarship Program, please contact:
Connie Deans
Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc.
Email: cdeans@lels.org
Phone: 651-793-2323
supporting the next generation of public safety professionals:
The LELS Benevolent Fund is proud to support individuals who are preparing to dedicate their careers to serving and protecting Minnesota communities. We encourage eligible students to apply and take the next step toward a rewarding career in public safety.