Lakewood Ranch High school student Matthew Powers was a treasured member of his school, community and Bands of Lakewood Ranch. When he passed away in 2018 in an automobile accident, his parents Dan and Rebecca talked about doing something special. The two established a scholarship fund at Manatee Community Foundation in memory of their 15-year-old son, who loved music and his band family and was always quick to help people.

“Matthew always had an affinity for music. His love of music is one of the things that defined him and made him into the person that meant so much to so many,” said his father Daniel Powers.

“He loved being around, working with, and playing music with his “Band Family” and would have wanted nothing more than to help them achieve their educational goals that he was never able to realize.”

The Matthew Ryan Powers ‘March on for Matt’ Memorial Scholarship will award scholarships for graduating seniors and graduates of Lakewood Ranch High School who were active in the Bands of Lakewood Ranch to attend an accredited 2 or 4-year educational institution. Tax-deductible contributions can be made to the scholarship fund through Manatee Community Foundation, 2820 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton FL 34205.

Matthew attended FSU Summer Music Camps for the last three years and wanted to become a high school band teacher.

Manatee Community Foundation partners with caring people who live in Manatee County and beyond to maximize the effectiveness, joy and tax benefits of their philanthropy.