The Aileen Marie Alvarez Scholarship

Fully funded retreat scholarships for women in law enforcement navigating breast cancer

A smiling woman with long, curly hair in black and white.

“Aileen Alvarez, was the co-founder of Shay’s Warriors Life After Cancer, Aileen was the heartbeat of our organization. Her unwavering warmth, strength, and remarkable talent for writing not only helped shape our programs but also secured vital grants for our survivorship retreats—supporting countless survivors since 2018.

It is in this spirit that we proudly unveil the Aileen Marie Alvarez Scholarship, an initiative that carries her light forward—fitting, as the meaning of Aileen’s name itself is light. This scholarship will ensure that any woman who has faced breast cancer or is living with it, and who serves in a law enforcement field, will be granted a place at our survivors’ retreat at no cost. This is our gift, a realization of the vision we shared—that every breast cancer survivor should have access to the healing and support they deserve.”

-Shay Moraga

Carrying Aileen's light forward

Aileen’s friendship with Shay grew into a purpose-driven partnership that ignited a community of connection and hope. Her unwavering dedication to our Talk Listen Share programming, grant team, and the I AM HOPE Survivors Reset Retreat has left an indelible mark—a legacy of compassion, strength, and resilience.

In honor of Shay’s Warriors Co-Founder, Aileen Marie Alvarez, this scholarship continues her profound impact by supporting women working in a law enforcement field who have faced breast cancer. Whether they have completed active treatment or are living with breast cancer, this scholarship will provide them with full funding to attend the annual I AM HOPE Survivors Reset Retreat—a transformative 4-day, 3-night experience. Here, survivors come together in a safe and supportive space to embrace life after cancer, focusing on healing, self-care, love, and acceptance alongside others who share their journey.

Through these scholarships, her beautiful daughters, our friendships, and the work we continue each day, we will forever honor Aileen’s legacy—carrying forward her spirit of hope and connection in all that we do. Until we meet again.

Contribute to the Scholarship

About the scholarship & what it provides

This scholarship honors Aileen's incredible legacy by fully funding places at the annual I AM HOPE Survivors Reset Retreat for women who serve in law enforcement and have walked the breast cancer journey.

Who it serves

Women in law enforcement (active or retired) who have completed active breast cancer treatment or are forever living with breast cancer.

What’s covered

100% of the cost for the 4-day, 3-night retreat experience, including lodging, meals, and all retreat gathering sessions.

Our goal

To surround these women with warmth, community, and the safe, healing environment they deserve.

The I AM HOPE survivors reset retreat experience

The I AM HOPE Survivors Reset Retreat is a peaceful, restorative 4-day, 3-night gathering where women come together to explore life after cancer in an environment filled with understanding, love, and zero judgment.

During our time together, retreat guests focus on:

The life after cancer mindset

Nurturing hope, peace, and renewal after the physical and emotional toll of treatment.

Self care & acceptance

Gentle, guided space to reconnect with oneself, restore inner strength, and embrace total self-love.

Shared connection

Finding deep comfort in the company of women who truly understand both the weight of cancer survivorship and the dedication of serving in law enforcement.

Supporting Aileen's legacy

Whether you are looking to attend, hope to nominate a sister in law enforcement, or wish to help keep Aileen’s light shining for others, we welcome you with open arms.

Give to the scholarship fund

Your tax-deductible gift directly sends a survivor to the retreat, giving her the space, love, and care she needs to heal.

Through these scholarships, our hearts, and the stories we share each day, Aileen’s spirit will forever guide our work.

Give Now

Questions you may have

What expenses are covered by the Aileen Marie Alvarez Scholarship?

The scholarship covers every part of the 4-day, 3-night I AM HOPE Survivors Reset Retreat—including comfortable accommodations, all meals, and all retreat activities—so recipients can focus entirely on rest and healing.

Can women who are currently living with ongoing breast cancer apply?

Yes, absolutely. This scholarship is created both for women who have completed active treatment and for those who are forever living with breast cancer.

How can I help support this scholarship?

You can support the fund directly through Shay’s Warriors Life After Cancer, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

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