FARMINGTON – The Life Enrichment Advancing People’s board of directors developed the Cordes-Taylor Scholarship Fund in 2004 to recognize the outstanding contributions of two women who have demonstrated excellence to LEAP Inc., with more than 46 years of combined service in support of people with developmental disabilities and mental retardation in Western and Central Maine.

Kathleen Cordes has served LEAP for more than 24 years as a program administrator, manager and leader. Her commitment, energy, dedication and support of the rights of all people has been a model to her community.

Marjorie Taylor has served LEAP for more than 23 years as a residential counselor, dietary and nutritional specialist and office assistant and has shown support to all staff, managers and the people served through her organization, attention to detail and support of the agency.

Both women have been exemplary leaders and models of consistency, commitment to community and support of the development of new services for people with developmental disabilities and mental retardation. They have dedicated their lives and their careers to improving support and opportunities for people to be able to live in communities of their own choosing, to support people to stay close to their friends and families and to improve the quality of services and care provided, directors said.

The primary focus of the scholarship funds will be to assist active staff members of LEAP to further their education in the fields of rehabilitation, special education, psychology, disability studies or related studies, which will improve the overall supports for people with disabilities. Although emphasis will be given to current LEAP staff, western Maine residents who are pursuing their education in these related fields may also apply.

Two $500 scholarships will be awarded to offset the cost of tuition, books and supplies. The deadline for applications is Friday, July 29. A letter of interest, application, brief essay and copies of transcripts are required. Announcements are expected to be made by Aug. 15. Visit LEAP’s Web site to download a copy of the application at www.leapcommunity.org or call 778-3443, ext. 104.

LEAP is a Farmington-based private nonprofit agency, which has been providing community and residential supports for people with developmental disabilities and mental retardation in Western and Central maine and their families for 25 years. It is a member agency of the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area.

For more information about LEAP and its services, visit www.leapcommunity.org, write to LEAP, P.O. Box 979, Farmington, ME 04938, or call 778-3443.