For decades, the Wareham Community Associates has used large amounts of shellfish to support Wareham’s college-bound students. The organization holds a clambake every year to raise money for scholarships for a select number of graduating seniors from Wareham High School.

Wareham Community Associates President Michael Collins said the scholarships are one of the main reasons he joined the organization. He said he sees the scholarships from two perspectives: as a retired Wareham High School teacher, and as a father of three college graduates.

“Kids needs help today,” Collins said. “I have several degrees, but when I got out, I didn’t have student loans. Kids today -- even the state colleges, that’s big money.”

Collins said the organization puts out applications for students to apply, and a committee selects the students based on academic performance, sports, community service, and need. This year, the organization gave out $4,000 to six students.

Collins said the clambake is done in a very traditional way, over hot stones and a bed of seaweed, which “gives [the clams] the unique flavor.” Collins also said there is a bake master, who has learned the proper way to bake the clams. This year, it is organization member Bill Atwood.

“To become a bake master like Bill takes a lot of years,” Collins said. “His father trained him, and his father trained him. It goes back like that.”

The clambake will take place on July 15 at 6 p.m. at Zecco Marine on Main Street. Tickets are available from Robertson’s GMC, and can be purchased by calling Lisa at 508-291-0044 or e-mailing her at Lisa@RobertsonsGMC.com. There will also be a raffle, which helps to contribute to the scholarship fund.

Collins said there will be lobster for those who don't enjoy clams, as well as a beer and wine selection. He said he's looking forward to the event, and expects “a great turnout.”

“The people that support us enjoy it, and I have never heard anyone complain,” Collins said. “It’s a nice way to spend an evening.”