Another successful luncheon helps raise money for scholarships

To continue the legacy of the Kassenbrock brothers, and to support another generation of college-bound high school seniors, the Kassenbrock Brothers Memorial Scholarship Fund held its first fundraiser of the year.

The annual March luncheon, hosted by the organization, was held on Sunday, March 8, to garner financial support for the scholarship.

The fund was established to keep in memory Walter and Vincent Kassenbrock, the leaders and founders of the Bay Ridge Community Council (BRCC) over five decades ago in 1951. Since its creation in 1972, the scholarship has recognized, honored and awarded Bay Ridge students for their work in the community, school service, leadership and academic achievement.

Nearly 150 supporters were on hand at the Bay Ridge Manor for the spring luncheon. Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Senator Marty Golden and Councilmember Vincent Gentile, an early recipient of the scholarship, were among those who made an appearance.

The scholarship committee receives approximately 40 scholarship applications each year and 16 of those students will be awarded grants ranging from $1,500 to $5,000.

“The kids have to have sufficient scores and grades to get into college, but our criteria are based on the performance of documented community service,” said Mary Ann Walsh, the administrator of the scholarship fund.

“Last year we were fortunate enough to give out $40,000 total to our recipients,” she noted.

However, the scholarship is more than just a way to finance a college education. “I believe it does inspire the students to continue their work in the community and it encourages a mindset of giving back to the neighborhood,” commented Walsh.

Additionally, Jean Rosse, a donor to the fund, celebrated her 101^st birthday that Sunday, and was presented with a bouquet of flowers by Gentile.