Golden 1 Credit Union Awards $1.5 Million to Nonprofits
In a strong commitment to community well-being, Golden 1 Credit Union has announced the recipients of its 2026-2027 Community Grant Program. A total of 55 nonprofits across California, particularly in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys, have been awarded two-year grants amounting to $1.5 million. This biennial program aims to strengthen educational attainment, career pathways, and entrepreneurship for young adults, showcasing Golden 1's dedication to community impact.
Supporting Nonprofits with a Vision
Since its inception in 2013, the Community Grant Program has allocated over $6 million to various nonprofit organizations, enabling them to address critical societal issues. This year's selected nonprofits focus on fostering educational opportunities and financial well-being for the youth, which is crucial for nurturing a financially resilient community.
Erica Taylor, Golden 1’s Senior Vice President of Community Impact and Public Relations Officer, emphasized the importance of these grants: "Nonprofits play an essential role in strengthening California's diverse communities, and we look forward to seeing the important work these grantees will accomplish over the next two years to help ensure brighter futures for all Californians."
Grant Selection Criteria
Applicants for the Community Grant Program were evaluated based on their alignment with Golden 1’s vision of enhancing the financial well-being of Californians. This includes assessing the nonprofit's ability to promote education, empower youth to discover career pathways, and encourage entrepreneurship. In addition to financial support, Golden 1 will also facilitate connections among grantees to nurture collaborative relationships and amplify their collective impact.
A Look at the Impact
The grantees span a diverse range of initiatives focused on education and entrepreneurship. By addressing these fundamental aspects, Golden 1 is not merely providing funds, but also contributing to the long-term sustainability of communities within the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys.
The funding will assist in various educational programs, mentorship initiatives, and career development efforts that benefit young adults, thereby driving positive change in local neighborhoods. This holistic approach to community funding further reinforces Golden 1’s role as a significant player in fostering economic stability and growth.
Future of the Grant Program
For those interested in applying for the next cycle, the application period for the 2026-2027 Community Grant Program will open in fall 2027. Detailed information about the 2026-2027 grantee recipients and the program itself can be found on Golden 1's official website at
golden1.com/community-grants.
Golden 1 Credit Union remains committed to driving social change and economic empowerment across California, proving that thoughtful initiatives and community-focused programs can create meaningful impacts in the lives of residents.
About Golden 1 Credit Union
With assets exceeding $21 billion, Golden 1 Credit Union stands as one of the largest credit unions in the nation. It provides a wide array of financial solutions tailored to meet the needs of over 1.1 million members while supporting the communities where they operate. This commitment to not just serve but uplift every Californian reaffirms Golden 1's mission for equitable access to financial resources. For more information, visit
golden1.com.