Play it forward scholarship

EJNF has established a new scholarship fund, Play it Forward, in loving memory of our friend David Pearlman. We will accept applications from individuals and families on a rolling basis throughout the year. Requests can be made in any amount up to $1,000 per child. EJNF will review and make decisions on award recipients twice per year - January 15th and August 15th to award $5,000 in annual scholarships. With this established fund, we hope to provide ample scholarship to enable play for young athletes who desire the opportunity. We will prioritize families with whom cost is a hardship, and who embody Eliza’s spirit of teamwork, sportsmanship, and fierce determination on and off the ice. Please see below for a description of the scholarship impact and the criteria of eligibility.

David Pearlman passed away suddenly in February 2025. EJNF was beyond humbled and grateful that David’s family chose EJNF as the dedicated beneficiary of gifts in David’s memory. Like Eliza, David was a strong presence in the community with an infectious and magnetic personality. He was known for paying it forward often by spontaneously and unexpectedly paying for children to attend programs and activities. This scholarship, created in his legacy, continues that beautiful gesture for years to come. 

Awarding of the Play it Forward scholarship is contingent on several criteria, and an application completed by the applicant and an adult. Scholarship funds can be used for athletic and extracurricular activity support, including camps. Scholarship recipients are expected to use their resources wisely and uphold a high standard of conduct on and off their place of play. Please note, we are not requiring financial documentation for this request. We ask that you honestly and thoughtfully apply for financial assistance based on your family’s ongoing and/or unexpected financial need. We hope this scholarship helps ease the burden of cost to families and enables young loved ones the opportunity to pursue their passion. We will have an objective selection committee composed of representatives from the EJNF Board and at least one third party attendee who can attest to a fair and equitable process.