Empowering Future Generations: NCAAWA and North Island Credit Union Collaborate on 2025 Scholarships

In a significant move to support educational opportunities for young women, the North County African American Women’s Association (NCAAWA) and North Island Credit Union have announced a partnership aimed at providing scholarships and financial literacy training to college-bound female students of African American descent in North County San Diego. This collaboration underscores a commitment to empowering the next generation through education and financial knowledge.

Scholarships Offered

The organizations will offer four scholarships worth $2,500 each to graduating high school seniors and current students from various educational paths, including ROP, trade schools, colleges, and graduate schools. These scholarships are available to candidates from key areas such as Carlsbad, Escondido, Fallbrook, Oceanside, San Dieguito, San Marcos, and Vista. Special emphasis will be placed on students pursuing degrees in education, reflecting a deeper investment in the future of educators.

Bess Bronson, the NCAAWA Scholarship Chair, articulated the intent behind the scholarship program: "The North County African American Women’s Association Scholarship Program is designed to support the educational advancement of graduating high school senior females of African American descent in our community. We also extend our support to students of diverse ethnic backgrounds who have participated in our mentoring programs. Thanks to our partners and the supportive citizens of Oceanside, we have aided over 350 students with around $500,000 in scholarship funds."

Application Process

Students interested in applying can find detailed information and application forms at ncaawa.org/scholarships. Applications will be accepted online until March 31, 2025. The extension of the eligibility criteria to include participants in NCAAWA's mentoring initiatives reflects a holistic approach to fostering community development and personal growth among young girls.

Financial Literacy Program

In addition to scholarships, the partnership will provide financial literacy training for upperclassmen enrolled in NCAAWA's Global Ambassadors Mentoring Program. This initiative is focused on equipping young women with essential leadership skills and comprehensive knowledge of financial matters that can significantly impact their future.

North Island Credit Union President and CEO, Steve O’Connell, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "NCAAWA is a tremendous resource in our community. We are honored to support its valuable programs that inspire and empower young women. Our goal is to help make the educational aspirations of these students a reality, and to instill lifelong financial skills. We encourage all eligible North County students to apply for our scholarships and engage in our mentoring programs."

A Legacy of Support

Established in 1995, NCAAWA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of women and girls in North San Diego County. Through various outreach programs, the association fosters education, health awareness, and life skills development, aiming to build self-sufficiency among its beneficiaries. The organization celebrates ethnic and racial pride, providing a safety net for all women in the region.

On the other hand, North Island Credit Union, a division of California Credit Union, boasts a long history of service, with assets amounting to $5 billion and a commitment to community development. Recognized as a Best-In-State Credit Union by Forbes in 2024, it continues to promote inclusivity in financial services, especially supporting underserved communities.

Conclusion

This partnership between NCAAWA and North Island Credit Union exemplifies a significant collaboration aimed at creating a lasting impact on the educational and financial futures of young women in San Diego's North County. As the application deadline approaches, both organizations are hopeful that this initiative will continue to foster empowerment and growth within the community, ensuring that the dreams of many students come to fruition while equipping them with the skills necessary for a successful future.