About the Scholarship
The Sebastian Arnold Hope in Recovery Scholarship was created to support individuals whose lives have been impacted by addiction and who are pursuing education, training, or certification as they take meaningful steps forward.
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This scholarship is rooted in the belief that recovery opens doors to stability, growth, and opportunity. Hank Arnold, Sebastian’s father, entered recovery when Sebastian was ten years old. Inspired by his recovery journey and a desire to help others, Hank and Shelly Arnold founded Coweta FORCE in 2016 to support individuals and families impacted by addiction.
Through this scholarship, Coweta FORCE continues that mission by helping reduce financial barriers and investing in education and opportunity for those navigating recovery and rebuilding their lives.
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For the inaugural year, five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded.
About Sebastian & Rylee
Sebastian Hall Arnold, age 23, passed away alongside his girlfriend, Rylee Lester, on January 5, 2023, in a tragic automobile accident caused by an impaired driver.
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Sebastian grew up in the Griffin and Newnan areas and was known for his energy, kindness, and unmistakable smile. He excelled in athletics, especially track, where his speed set him apart, and he was also proud to be part of the JROTC Raiders. Outside of school and sports, Sebastian enjoyed playing Xbox and was well known in the gaming world by his gamer tag, Vulyses. He was famously particular about his food, a detail his family and friends remember fondly as part of what made him uniquely himself.
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Sebastian was deeply loved. He was a devoted son to his parents, a caring big brother to his six younger sisters, and a loyal, dependable friend. He had a great sense of humor, a warm presence, and a way of making those around him feel seen and valued.
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At the time of his passing, Sebastian was in a beautiful chapter of life. He was in love, thriving in a new career path, and enjoying strong, meaningful relationships with his family. He had just spent three cherished weeks together with them over Christmas, time that remains priceless.
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This scholarship honors Sebastian and Rylee by carrying forward values of love, hope, and possibility, and by supporting others as they move toward brighter futures.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
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Have lived experience with addiction (their own or a close family member’s)
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Live in Coweta County or a surrounding county
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Be pursuing education, training, or certification, including:
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College or university
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Technical college
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Trade or vocational program
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GED program
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Recovery-related certification
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Demonstrate financial need
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Be willing to provide enrollment verification before funds are released
Scholarship Details
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Number of Awards: 5
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Award Amount: $1,000 each
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Use of Funds:
Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, required fees, books, or approved program costs. -
Payment Method:
Funds are paid directly to the recipient’s school or training program.
Important Dates
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Applications Open: January 5
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Application Deadline: March 1 at 11:59 PM
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Recipient Notification: On or around March 25
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Scholarship Reception: Early April
Essay Requirement
Applicants must submit an essay (500–750 words) responding to the following prompt:
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Describe how addiction has shaped your life and how recovery—your own or your family’s—has influenced your educational or career goals. What does hope in recovery mean to you, and how will this scholarship support your next steps?
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed by a committee using a standardized scoring rubric. Awards will be based on:
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Impact of addiction
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Recovery and personal growth
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Educational or career goals
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Financial need
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Essay quality
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All applicants will be notified of their status by March 25
Questions?
For questions about the scholarship, please contact:
Coweta FORCE
📧 Email: Scholarship@cowetaforce.org
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The Sebastian Arnold Hope in Recovery Scholarship reflects Coweta FORCE’s commitment to hope, healing, and opportunity for individuals and families impacted by addiction.