Meet 3 of Our 2024 Scholarship Recipients
The SWFL Heroes Foundation remains committed to supporting those who dedicate their lives to serving others. At the 7th Annual Southern Swamp Gala, three outstanding individuals were awarded scholarships to help them pursue careers in firefighting and emergency services. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition, uniforms, and essential gear, ensuring these future first responders have the resources they need to complete their training.

Yoav Eldan
$6,749.18 Scholarship Recipient
Yoav Eldan is attending the Southwest Florida Public Service Academy to complete the Firefighter I and II programs. A high-achieving student, he was part of the National Honor Society and earned the Golden Shears Honor Award for academic excellence in EMT training. While living in Ecuador, Yoav served the communities, providing aid packages, working with orphaned children, and participating in environmental cleanup efforts. His scholarship will help cover tuition, bunker gear, and uniforms as he works toward becoming a firefighter.


Aydin Holt
$3,500 Scholarship Recipient
Aydin Holt is preparing to begin training at the SWFL Public Service Academy for EMS and fire services. A graduate of LaBelle High School, he spent four years in the Fire/EMS program and earned a Public Service Award for his dedication.
Alongside his academic achievements, he was involved in varsity baseball, golf, and fishing, and has been a long-time volunteer with his church. His scholarship will assist with tuition and uniform costs as he works toward becoming a first responder.
Justin Pascale
$1,500 Scholarship Recipient
Justin Pascale is pursuing firefighting at the Southwest Florida Public Service Academy. A dedicated student, he was part of his high school’s honors program while also excelling in athletics, particularly basketball and weightlifting. His passion for fitness and public service has shaped his drive to serve his community as a firefighter. His scholarship will help offset tuition expenses as he completes his training.
The SWFL Heroes Foundation is proud to support these future first responders, recognizing their dedication to protecting and serving their communities.

Celebrating the Future of Public Service
Our Annual Southern Swamp Gala is more than just an event—it was a testament to the unwavering commitment of SWFL Heroes Foundation in supporting the next generation of first responders. This year, Justin Pascale, Aydin Holt, and Yoav Eldan each received well-deserved scholarships to help them pursue careers in firefighting and emergency services. Their dedication to serving their communities reflects the very mission of our foundation, and we are honored to play a role in their journey.
As they step into their training programs, we look forward to seeing their impact in Southwest Florida and beyond. The future of public service is bright, and thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we can continue empowering young heroes to answer the call.
Join the mission through your gift of any amount.
We value the next generation of leaders by providing scholarships and educational support to our future community heroes.
Let’s do this together! Your gift of any amount is appreciated.