The California Credit Union Foundation is proud to announce its 2025 Student Scholarship Program, aimed at empowering college-bound students across Southern California. The foundation is set to award a total of $20,000 in scholarships to recognize and support students who demonstrate academic excellence and active community involvement. With the rising costs of higher education, these scholarships are more crucial than ever, providing financial assistance that can ease the burden of tuition fees.
Marvel Ford, President of the California Credit Union Foundation, stated, "We are dedicated to helping the next generation of leaders achieve their educational goals. We understand that pursuing higher education can be a financial challenge, and our scholarships are designed to alleviate some of that difficulty." This initiative is not just about financial support; it’s also about fostering a sense of community and inspiring students to engage actively in their academic and social environments.
Eligible applicants include high school seniors who are planning to enroll in college or community college students looking to transfer to a four-year university. The program serves students from Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, and Orange counties. Additionally, scholarships are available for members of the California Credit Union or their dependents regardless of where they reside. To qualify, students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0, demonstrating their commitment to academic success.
The selection process takes into account various criteria, including academic performance, involvement in school or community activities, a letter of recommendation, and a personal essay. This holistic approach ensures that the scholarships are awarded to those who not only excel academically but also contribute positively to their communities.
Interested students can apply online at
ccu.com/studentscholarship. The deadline for online applications is March 7, 2025, with scholarship recipients announced in early April 2025. This annual scholarship program was established back in 2005 and has since awarded over $425,000 to deserving students in Southern California.
The California Credit Union Foundation operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, dedicated to enhancing the financial well-being of local communities. In addition to the scholarship program, the foundation collaborates with various non-profit partners to implement programs that create a positive impact across the Southern California region. California Credit Union, recognized as a Forbes Best-In-State Credit Union in 2024, is a state-chartered institution with assets exceeding $5 billion and approximately 200,000 members. Notably, all administrative expenses for the foundation are covered by California Credit Union, ensuring that every cent donated goes directly to community initiatives.
To learn more about the California Credit Union Foundation, their scholarship program, or how to make a tax-deductible donation, visit
ccu.com/foundation or follow them on Instagram (@ccufoundation).
In summary, the California Credit Union Foundation’s commitment to supporting education through its scholarship program exemplifies a sustainable investment in the future of Southern California’s youth. As students navigate the challenges of higher education costs, initiatives like these play a critical role in enabling them to reach their academic ambitions.