FRED SOMERSET MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM INC

Founded in 1996 by Jermaine Somerset in Brooklyn, NY, the Fred Somerset Memorial Scholarship Program (FSMSP) honors the legacies of Fred Somerset and Charlotte "Cutz" Somerset. Inspired by Grandpa Fred's motto, "Your wealth will not be measured by how much money you have, your wealth will be measured by how many lives you touch," FSMSP evolved from a scholarship fund to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit addressing systemic racism, social injustice, education gaps, homelessness, and health disparities. FSMSP serves diverse communities across Northern Virginia, Western Pennsylvania, Northeast Ohio, the New York Tri-State area, Washington D.C., Barbados, and Brazil.

FSMSP's mission, encapsulated in "F.R.E.D." (Funding, Rooted in culture, Educational excellence, Determination), is to uplift marginalized populations, particularly homeless women and children, female veterans, and underserved youth, through education, cultural awareness, health advocacy, and community development.

Key Programs and Initiatives

Educational Scholarships and Youth Development: FSMSP offers scholarships to disadvantaged students and partners with schools for leadership and mentoring programs.

Legacy Cultural Project: High school students, parents, residents, law enforcement, educators, and community leaders travel to historic civil rights sites in Selma and Montgomery, Alabama, fostering cultural sensitivity, leadership, and community dialogue. Activities include visiting the Edmund Pettus Bridge, Legacy Museum, and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, with daily discussions promoting reflection and action.

Education & the Arts Project: Launched in 2024, this initiative provides workshops on nutrition, mental health, financial literacy, and cultural history in underserved African American communities like Anacostia and Capitol Hill, D.C. The project highlights contributions of African Americans in health, agriculture, and finance.

"Chat, Chew, & Learn" and "Let's Taco 'Bout It" Forums: Informal community events bringing stakeholders together over meals to discuss racial unity, history, and community building.

African American Living Museum: A student-led event in Farrell, PA, inspired by the Legacy Project, where students create interactive exhibits celebrating African American historical figures and culture.

Thanks 4 Giving and Summer Fest Benefit Events: Annual fundraisers that support FSMSP's scholarships and programs while strengthening community bonds.

"Cutz Cares" Transitional Living Program: Named for Charlotte Somerset, this program provides transitional housing and holistic support for homeless women, female veterans, and children. Services include housing, case management, life skills training, employment support, mental health services, childcare assistance, and peer support.

Pathway to Fluency English Learning Program: Operating in Brazil, this program empowers Brazilian women with English language skills to enhance their employment opportunities and economic independence. It reflects FSMSP's commitment to breaking down educational barriers internationally.

Impact on the Community

Educational Advancement: FSMSP has enabled countless students to pursue higher education, breaking cycles of poverty and inspiring future community leaders.

Cultural Awareness: The Legacy Cultural Project and related activities foster deep understanding of civil rights history, promote cultural sensitivity, diversity and inclusion, and strengthen relationships between youth, law enforcement, and civic leaders.

Community Health and Development: Workshops improve community health literacy, financial stability, and wellness practices, targeting systemic disparities in historically underserved neighborhoods.

Support for Vulnerable Populations: Cutz Cares addresses critical gaps by providing safe housing and supportive services to homeless women, particularly veterans, enabling stability, employment, and self-sufficiency.

International Outreach: Through the Pathway to Fluency program in Brazil, FSMSP extends its educational mission globally, creating new pathways to economic opportunity for marginalized women.

Inspiring Volunteerism: FSMSP cultivates community engagement and philanthropy, inspiring civic leaders, alumni, and volunteers to invest time, resources, and energy into building stronger communities.

Conclusion

The Fred Somerset Memorial Scholarship Program has transformed countless lives through a holistic model blending education, cultural empowerment, health advocacy, and direct support services. By touching lives across the U.S. and abroad, FSMSP honors the legacy of Fred and Charlotte Somerset, proving that true wealth lies in the lives we uplift and the communities we transform.