3rd annual Robert F. Rodriguez Leadership Foundation Scholarship Benefit and car show (photos by Michael Seiber / The Ellis County Press)

FERRIS – The 3rd annual Robert F. Rodriguez Leadership Foundation (RFR) Scholarship Benefit was held Saturday, Oct. 5 at Mutz Memorial Park in Ferris.

The 2024 benefit included a Mobile Blood drive, car show, BBQ plate sale, bake sale, 50/50 raffle, silent and live auction, live music, bounce houses and much more.

State Representative Carl Sherman presented a proclamation recognizing the RFR Foundation for its’ remembrance and dedication. 

“The RFR Leadership Foundation provides academic scholarships, leadership development, and service based opportunities that allow us to mobilize and empower current and future leaders,” said Jesse Rodriguez, founder.

“Our mobile blood drives have collected 126 units of blood which has the potential to save 378 lives.

“Oct. 8, 2022 was our first scholarship benefit. We raised enough money to give out 7- $1000 scholarships. Last year on October 7, we raised $12,000.

“We are thankful to have the support of Ferris ISD, the City of Ferris, and many local business owners.”