In 2023, Jon traveled to Honduras and visited Leadership Mission International’s residential leadership program for young women. As he listened to students and graduates describe their hopes for the future, many shared the same dream: to continue their education at a university.

Inspired by those conversations, Jon helped establish LMI’s Scholarships to End Poverty program, known as STEP. Through STEP, LMI graduates can receive full funding to pursue a university degree in Honduras.

To date, six STEP scholars have graduated from university, and 13 additional women are currently studying in fields including engineering, computer science, international business, law, education, and psychology.

This program is significant because many LMI graduates come from rural communities where poverty and limited access to education make university feel out of reach. Many are the first members of their families to pursue higher education. For them, earning a degree creates opportunities for meaningful employment, economic independence, and a greater ability to invest their knowledge and leadership back into their communities.

Jon believed in these women and in what they could become. His generosity opened doors that will continue to change lives, families, and communities for generations.

Gifts made to the Jon Holtaway Memorial Fund will support STEP scholarships and carry forward the legacy he began.