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Hope for Sage Smith Education Scholarship - $2,500 Goal
We're raising funds to create an education scholarship that will directly support deserving students in the Charlottesville community.
Her Story Can't End Here
On November 20, 2012 - Transgender Day of Remembrance - 19-year-old Sage Smith vanished from Charlottesville, Virginia. Though officially listed as missing, police have ruled her case a homicide. Sage was a vibrant young woman with dreams of becoming a cosmetologist. She loved to dance, had incredible fashion sense, and brought joy to everyone around her with her infectious spirit.
But Sage was more than the tragedy that took her from us.
Who Was Sage?
Sage was a fighter. As a transgender African American woman who experienced foster care and economic hardship, she faced bullying and countless obstacles - yet she never lost her authenticity or her joy. She embraced life fully, danced through challenges, and showed resilience that inspired everyone who knew her.
Sage deserved to pursue her dreams. Now, we're making sure other young people like her get that chance.
The Hope for Sage Smith Education Scholarship
This isn't your typical scholarship. We're not looking for perfect GPAs or long lists of extracurriculars. We're looking for students who embody what made Sage special:
✨ Resilience in the face of adversity
✨ Authenticity despite challenges
✨ Determination to overcome obstacles
✨ The courage to be uniquely themselves
How it works:
- Recipients are hand-selected by Charlottesville community members who work with youth
- No application required - this scholarship finds deserving students
- Funds can be used for trade school, college, or any educational pursuit
- Students are chosen based on character and spirit, not grades
Your Impact - Every Dollar Matters
Our Initial Goal: $2,500 (We would love to raise more!)
This will provide educational support to a student who faces some of the same challenges Sage overcame. If we surpass our goal, we'll award additional scholarships or increase the amount - all decisions made in consultation with Sage's family.
Suggested Donations:
- $19 - Honor Sage's age when she was taken from us
- $190 - For those feeling generous (19 x 10)
- Any amount - Every contribution keeps Sage's memory alive
Why This Matters Now
Too many young people like Sage are overlooked, undervalued, or forgotten. This scholarship ensures that resilient, authentic students get the educational opportunities they deserve - regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances.
When you donate, you're saying:
- Sage's life mattered
- Her legacy will live on through education
- Every young person deserves to be seen and supported
- Resilience and authenticity should be celebrated
Join Our Mission
Whether you knew Sage personally or you're learning her story for the first time, you can help transform tragedy into hope. Together, we can ensure that Sage Smith is never forgotten and that her beautiful spirit continues to make a difference in young lives.
Share this campaign. Tell Sage's story. Help us honor her memory.
For more information about Sage, visit: Facebook.com/HopeForSageSmith
All funds will be administered responsibly and awarded to deserving students in the Charlottesville community. This scholarship represents hope, resilience, and the belief that every person deserves to pursue their dreams.
#HopeForSageSmith #TransLivesMatter #EducationMatters #CharlottesvilleStrong
Organizer
Hope for Sage Smith
Organizer
Charlottesville, VA