Sheriff Robert Ynclan Scholarship fundraiser back

It’s that time again – raising funds for college scholarships!

The Sheriff Robert Ynclan Memorial Scholarship Fund is hosting its fourth annual fundraiser, and tickets are now on sale. Funds from the event are dedicated to providing scholarships to Gonzales seniors who are heading off to college in the fall.

“For $15 area residents can enjoy a dinner plate of a pork steak, German potatoes and green beans,” said Scholarship Fund President Cynthia Ynclan.

The meals will be available for pickup at Lion’s Park on Saturday, March 8, 2025, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and coincides with the opening day of Gonzales Little League play in Independence Park.

“We will have additional plates for sale for those who have not purchased a ticket in advance. Families coming out to cheer on their Little League players can enjoy a picnic lunch in the park,” Ynclan said.

Robert Ynclan was elected sheriff in 2020 for Gonzales County, but passed away at age 63 on September 5, 2021, after a lengthy battle with COVID.

“The scholarship fund was established in 2022 to honor Robert and his sincere affection for young people. He championed education, and I think he would be pleased at the progress we have made over the last few years,” Cynthia Ynclan said.

“There is no way we could pull this off without the gracious volunteers who lend their time and money to help us. Dedicated and talented pit masters begin firing up their BBQ pits at 4:30 a.m. to cook the steaks, and we have countless volunteers who prepare and serve the food. Others have made donations which makes this effort possible and negates our having to rely upon our personal out-of-pocket funds to host this annual event.”

College bound seniors from Gonzales High School, Grace Academy and Emanuel Christian School are eligible to apply for a scholarship.

The Memorial Scholarship Fund is currently accepting applications, and students may submit them to their school counselor up until March 21 with winners announced in May. Students are required to submit a 200-300 word essay, a school transcript confirming at least a 2.5 grade point average, a resume and two letters of recommendation. In the last three years scholarships have been awarded to 17 students totaling $10,000.

Last year’s winner Ainsley Holub said, “I was and still am extremely thrilled and grateful for my selection of this honor. I am deeply appreciative of your support on my academic journey.”

Tickets can be requested from Memorial Scholarship Fund board members and supporters through their Facebook page, and include:

• Cynthia Ynclan, President

• Nora Matias, Vice President

• Donna Spahn, Treasurer

• Regina Porras, Secretary

• Patsy Fitzsimmons, Volunteer Coordinator

• Marisa Ynclan, Volunteer