A quiet but powerful movement is taking root in our hometown, changing lives, reshaping futures, and redefining what success looks like. At the heart of this movement is Shoot for Scholarships, a newly established nonprofit founded by Wayman Biles, a lifelong resident of East Montgomery County (EMC) and a passionate advocate for youth opportunity. With a bold mission to empower local students through education, Shoot for Scholarships is built on gratitude, fueled by community, and driven by the belief that every young person deserves a chance to thrive.
Shoot for Scholarships was born from a legacy of giving. Though the organization is new, its leadership has spent nearly two decades raising scholarship funds for students in New Caney and Splendora. Now, that passion has found a new home—a focused effort to support students who are ready to learn, work hard, and give back to the area that supported them. The goal is clear: to provide opportunities, mentorship, and hope to the next generation. But the mission doesn’t stop there. The organization is also committed to standing alongside other local nonprofits, offering support wherever it’s needed to strengthen the entire community.
Students are increasingly embracing vocational education, pursuing hands-on careers in welding, HVAC, healthcare, cosmetology, IT, and other skilled trades. These careers offer not only financial stability but also a profound sense of purpose and pride in creating something tangible. Beyond immediate job opportunities, competitive wages, and practical skills, they signal a deeper shift, a redefinition of success that celebrates craftsmanship, community impact, and personal fulfillment. Supported by schools, businesses, and organizations like Shoot for Scholarships, this movement demonstrates that true success is measured not by a diploma but by dedication, heart, and a willingness to serve.
Shoot for Scholarships is building a network of support, connecting students with mentors, internships, apprenticeships, and career guidance. By partnering with local schools and businesses, the organization is creating pathways to success that go far beyond the classroom, helping students not only reach their goals but thrive in their chosen fields.
Every event isn’t just a gathering; it’s an investment in brighter futures. Shoot for Scholarships hosts a variety of fun, family-friendly activities that bring everyone together in celebration and support. Seasonal cook-offs, like the Fall Chili & Bean and Spring Bar-B-Que, highlight local talent and generosity. Game nights, dances, and tournaments turn gatherings into opportunities to make a difference. Through sponsorships, auctions, and raffles, local businesses and individuals invest in the future, with each dollar bringing a student closer to their dreams.
The response from the community has been nothing short of inspiring. From the ribbon-cutting hosted by the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber to the growing excitement around occupational education, the momentum is real. People are showing up, giving generously, and believing in the power of education to transform lives. While President Wayman Biles is honored to lead, he emphasizes that none of this would be possible without the dedicated team beside him. Their commitment and passion fuel the organization’s growth, proving this vision is bigger than any one person—it’s a community effort.
As the organization prepares to award its first scholarships in 2026, the vision is clear: build a lasting legacy of opportunity, mentorship, and shared pride that uplifts generations to come. For the dedicated team of founding members behind Shoot for Scholarships, this is more than a nonprofit; it’s a heartfelt promise to the next generation that their dreams matter, their hard work is valued, and their future is worth investing in. To learn more or get involved, reach out to shootforscholarships@gmail.com and follow the journey on Facebook: Shoot for Scholarships www.facebook.com/shootingforscholarships.