Hale Law, a personal injury firm serving Florida’s Gulf Coast, has named Melanie Kersten as the recipient of its 2026 Hale Helps™ Scholarship. The $1,000 award, announced July 28, recognizes a graduating high school senior in Sarasota, Manatee, or Charlotte County who demonstrates how the firm’s core values manifest in their life. Kersten, who plans to attend Florida State University this fall, founded the nonprofit Bags of Care after her mother’s breast cancer battle, raising more than $1,000 and delivering 60 care packages to patients at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital and Sarasota Memorial Hospital.
The scholarship is part of Hale Law’s broader Hale Helps™ community program, which also includes a Teacher of the Year award, an annual backpack giveaway, and a Student of the Month recognition. Applicants submitted a 750- to 1,000-word essay reflecting on a personal challenge and connecting it to one of Hale Law’s core values. Kersten’s essay highlighted her journey founding Bags of Care while her mother underwent treatment. Beyond the nonprofit, she has volunteered more than 500 hours through Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s Teen Volunteer Program, serving patients at both the Sarasota and Venice campuses.
Patrick M. Hale, founder and co-managing partner at Hale Law, said in a statement: “Our goal is to celebrate and amplify the unique journeys and stories of local students, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with vigor and optimism.” The firm also supported Kersten’s mission by funding supplies for her care packages. Co-Managing Partner Patrick Iyampillai joined Kersten in assembling bags for local cancer patients, underscoring the firm’s commitment to serving the community alongside those making a difference.
Kersten’s personal connection to All Children’s Hospital is deeply rooted: the hospital saved her life when she was three years old. Her application stood out for its extraordinary commitment to serving others, according to the firm. The scholarship funds are paid directly to the college or university she attends.
Hale Law, founded in 2018, represents clients in car accidents, commercial truck collisions, motorcycle crashes, rideshare accidents, medical malpractice, and wrongful death cases. With offices in eight Gulf Coast communities including Sarasota, Bradenton, and Tampa, the firm emphasizes a client-focused approach and clear communication throughout the legal process. The scholarship reflects its investment in local students whose leadership and service strengthen the communities they call home.
