ORLANDO, Fla., Dec. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A new academic opportunity is now available for undergraduate students committed to strengthening local communities, promoting sustainable development, and driving meaningful social impact. The Christopher Balter Second Chance Community Impact Scholarship officially opens its application period, offering a $1,000 award to one deserving student who demonstrates passion, vision, and dedication to creating long-term positive change.
Founded by respected urban planning professional Christopher Balter, the scholarship aims to uplift students who are pursuing educational paths that align with community development, public administration, nonprofit leadership, urban planning, sustainable design, and related fields. Having built a notable career in comprehensive planning, regulatory development, and community-focused project leadership, Christopher Balter established this scholarship as part of his ongoing commitment to advancing strong, inclusive, and resilient communities.
As a seasoned expert in urban and regional planning, Christopher Balter has spent years guiding municipal growth strategies, reviewing development applications, shaping land use policies, and coordinating with civic partners and government agencies. His work emphasizes a balanced approach—promoting innovation while aligning with community needs, regulatory frameworks, and long-term vision. His professional influence spans roles including Director of Planning and Development Services, Chief of Long Range Planning, Senior Planner, and founder of CMB Planning Consultants, where he continues to provide specialized insights on rezoning, land use, and development review.
The Second Chance Community Impact Scholarship reflects Balter’s belief that supporting future leaders is essential to strengthening communities nationwide. “Every community benefits when young leaders are empowered through education and opportunity,” said Christopher Balter. “This scholarship is about recognizing students with a deep commitment to public service and giving them a chance to further their impact.”
The scholarship is awarded through an essay-based competition, encouraging students to think critically about community challenges and propose thoughtful, sustainable solutions. Applicants must submit a 750–1,000 word essay responding to a central prompt:
“Describe a community challenge that you are passionate about improving. How would you approach creating a sustainable and long-term solution, and how does your future career path align with this vision?”
This prompt is designed to highlight an applicant’s understanding of real-world community needs, analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and alignment with their future professional aspirations. Essays must be original, well-reasoned, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to community improvement.
To be eligible, students must be current undergraduates enrolled in an accredited U.S. institution and pursuing or intending to pursue a career connected to community impact, development, or public service. Fields may include—but are not limited to—urban planning, public administration, social advocacy, nonprofit development, environmental planning, housing, public policy, or community engagement.
How to Apply:
Applicants should prepare their essay along with their personal and academic information, including full name, contact details, university, major, and academic year. Submissions must be sent as a PDF or Word document to [email protected] with the subject line: “Scholarship Application – [Your Full Name].”
The recipient of the $1,000 award will be selected based on the strength, clarity, and originality of their essay, as well as their demonstrated commitment to community-focused work. The winner will be notified directly by email after the review period.
The Christopher Balter Second Chance Community Impact Scholarship stands as a meaningful opportunity for students who aspire to transform the communities around them. Through this initiative, Christopher Balter continues his mission to support education, encourage innovative thinking, and invest in the next generation of community-focused professionals.
For more details about eligibility, deadlines, and application instructions, students are encouraged to visit the official scholarship page.
For press inquiries or additional information, please contact:
Spokesperson: Christopher Balter
Organization: Christopher Balter Second Chance Community Impact Scholarship
Website: https://christopherbalterscholarship.com/
Email: [email protected]
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/13d0818a-7614-463d-9c6f-0afaaa5e79ce