Devon Nicholas Bellar
From Devon's Legacy Foundation
Devon’s Legacy Foundation, a newly formed nonprofit based in Central Florida, has announced the launch of its Fire Academy Sponsorship Program, which provides full tuition scholarships to young adults pursuing careers in firefighting. The program honors the life of Devon Nicholas Bellar, a 19-year-old Apopka resident who died tragically in January.
Devon was a dedicated member of the Apopka Fire Explorers program, where he found his calling in fire service and community leadership. Although he never got the chance to fulfill his dream of becoming a firefighter, his legacy will now empower others to follow that same path.
Related: The Apopka Fire Department and the 2650 Foundation award scholarships in honor of fallen firefighter Austin Duran.
Founded by Devon’s mother, Sam, the foundation received its official 501(c)(3) status in February and is preparing to open scholarship applications beginning June 1st.
“Apopka helped shape Devon into the young man he became,” said Sam. “This foundation is our way of giving back to the community that gave so much to him and helping others fulfill their dreams of serving.”
The scholarship is open to U.S. residents ages 18–26 who are accepted into a certified fire academy. Scholarships will be awarded twice per year—in June and December—and will be paid directly to the fire academy.
The foundation is currently seeking:
- Scholarship applicants
- Community sponsors
- Fire departments interested in mentorship opportunities
For more information, to apply, or to support the program, visit www.DevonsLegacyFoundation.org.
About Devon’s Legacy Foundation
Devon’s Legacy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to honor the life of Devon Nicholas Bellar by empowering the next generation of firefighters through scholarships, mentorship, and community engagement.
