Bob and Joyce Spencer embody the old saying “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”  In 2005, they helped launch the JA Inspiration Scholarship Program, and they are now naming a JA Inspiration Scholarship in their son’s honor. The Spencers hope others will follow suit in supporting young entrepreneurs and honoring someone important to them.

Their only son, Carson, was a charismatic, enterprising entrepreneur in Denver but died as a result of an illness in 2004 at only age 34. He spoke often of taking some of his financial success to help “others achieve their potential” – but he never got to do it.

The family took this incredible tragedy and launched the Carson J. Spencer Foundation (CJSF), an organization that works to prevent suicide and address the root causes of suicide in schools, homes and businesses. JA partners with CJSF to encourage young people to engage in social entrepreneurship and address these issues creatively in their communities.

In 2005, Bob approached JA to fulfill his son’s dream and to partner in funding college scholarships for promising entrepreneurs. This became the genesis for the JA Inspiration Scholarship Program. Since 2007, JA has awarded $408,000 in scholarships to 73 promising students and young entrepreneurs.

Carson’s legacy lives on through the Spencer family’s support of the JA Inspiration Scholarship program, and their commitment to funding a “Carson J. Spencer Scholar” each year.  Bob and Joyce say of their support: “The stories of these young people are truly inspiring, and the recipients shine with hope for a promising future. This program is among the best things we have ever done.”

The Spencer family hopes others will support JA this Colorado Gives Day, or choose to fund a JA Scholarship and name a scholar in honor of someone or something important to them. Please contact Tara Petersen at 303-628-7373 or tpetersen@jacolorado.org for more information.