Homestead Heritage Scholarship
The mission of the Kendall County Fair Association Homestead Heritage Exhibit Hall Scholarship Program is to create a learning environment that honors the past, showcases the present, and promotes the rural heritage and agricultural industries of Kendall County.
The Goals of the program are:
Academic Excellence
Uphold high standards in agricultural education through instruction, research, and outreach that serve the greater Hill Country community.
Youth Development
Engage and educate youth in an environment that promotes excellence in agriculture, supports personal growth, encourages discovery, and prepares future leaders and professionals.
Diversity
Foster an inclusive environment that values individuals, cultural diversity, and respect for the land, animals, and natural resources, while honoring the history and heritage of agriculture.
Nutrition and Healthy Food Sources
Improve quality of life by supporting the growth and sustainability of agricultural, horticultural, and culinary industries across rural Texas.
Rural Agriculture Development
Advance agricultural education through exhibits, presentations, and competitions that celebrate industry diversity, promote best practices, and inspire creativity and entrepreneurship.
Collaborative Partnerships
Strengthen the program through strategic partnerships, community support, and resource development with industry, government, and local stakeholders.
Image/Pride/Recognition
Promote a strong community identity that celebrates agricultural achievements, encourages involvement, and recognizes personal growth and educational success.
The objective of the program is to increase knowledge and appreciation of agriculture, horticulture, culinary arts, heritage crafts, and related fields within our Hill Country community. We aim to grow participation by 30% annually across all age groups, encouraging involvement as exhibitors, patrons, and supporters.
Current Activities
Community Outreach – Promote the Homestead Heritage Exhibit Hall through community engagement, program catalogs, and targeted outreach materials that encourage participation and early exhibit planning. Interactive displays at local events will further increase awareness and involvement.
Enhanced Participation – Increase exhibitor involvement by offering early entry opportunities the week prior to the fair, allowing ample time for preparation and participation in Exhibit Hall events.
KCFA Annual Labor Day Exhibit Hall Competitions – Host competitions with fair and impartial judging to recognize outstanding projects across multiple categories and age groups, held on Friday of Labor Day Fair week.
KCFA Annual Labor Day Exhibit Hall Showcase – Provide a three-day showcase during the Labor Day Fair, featuring exhibitor projects, agricultural displays, and interactive exhibits for thousands of attendees, fostering a positive, educational experience for the community.
Recognition of Winners – Honor participants with ribbons, awards, photo opportunities, and public recognition through local media and inclusion in the following year’s program catalog.
We are developing a strategic and business plan, along with annual action plans, to guide our future growth. We are also building partnerships with local businesses and foundations to secure funding and support. These efforts will help increase community engagement, expand our donor base, and grow participation and volunteer involvement.
Scholarship Applicants Criteria
- Applicants must be a 2026 graduating senior from Boerne High School, Champion High School, Comfort High School, or a private school or homeschool program in Kendall County.
- Applicants must be pursuing a career in agriculture, ag business, horticulture, floriculture, art, photography, taxidermy, or related home and life skills fields.
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens, residents of Kendall County, and have no criminal convictions.
- Preference and additional points may be given to applicants who:
- a. Have volunteered at the Homestead Heritage Exhibit Hall or during the Kendall County Fair
- b. Have exhibited in the Homestead Heritage Exhibit Hall in previous years
- c. Are Junior Members of the Kendall County Fair Association, Inc.
- d. Are active members of FFA or 4-H
- e. Plan to continue their education in agriculture, horticulture, floriculture, photography/art, taxidermy, or related life skills fields related to crafting and baking/cooking.
- Scholarship amounts are determined based on qualifying criteria and application evaluation.
- Applications are reviewed and selected by the KCFA Scholarship Committee. Selection is not based on sex, race, religion, financial need, class rank, or major.
Scholarship Requirements
- An official, sealed high school transcript reflecting the most recent grading period.
- One letter of recommendation from a school official (instructor or academic advisor) from a school attended within the past 12 months.
- One letter of recommendation from a personal or community reference. Letters may not be written by a relative (parent, grandparent, or sibling).
- A self-written narrative describing hobbies, employment, school and organizational activities, awards, academic interests, volunteer work, and any participation in the Homestead Heritage Exhibit Hall during the Annual Kendall County Fair.
- A handwritten essay of approximately 300 words on the topic: “What the Annual Kendall County Fair Means to Me and the Community.”
- All applications and supporting documents must be postmarked on or before April 1, 2026, and mailed to:
Kendall County Fair Association, Inc.
Attn: Homestead Heritage Exhibit Hall Scholarship Program
P.O. Box 954
Boerne, Texas 78006