The Community Choice Foundation embodies the credit union philosophy of people helping people.
Our program proudly offers three different scholarships: Graduating High School, Continuing Education, and Skilled Trades. With this broad range of educational opportunities, Community Choice supports Michigan students with whatever path they choose in life.
Graduating High School
Graduating high school is the first step to higher education. Community Choice offers 15 $5,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors with the desire to attend college in Michigan.
Continuing Education
We believe that learning is a life-long process. That’s why we are offering six $2,500 continuing education scholarships to students looking to further their studies, pursue higher degrees, or get recertified.
Skilled Trades/CTE
Skilled trades will play an important role in Michigan’s future. We now offer four $2,500 scholarships to students who are seeking vocational training or certification through accredited programs.
This year's application period has closed. Our 2023 scholars will be announced soon.
Through our scholarship program, the Community Choice Foundation empowers local students to achieve their dreams while remaining in Michigan. When a student receives financial support they are pledging to use their education to Give Big™ in Michigan by living and working here after graduating or completing their vocational training.
At Community Choice, we like to use the expression “Give Big” when we talk about our commitment to our members. We are steadfast in our desire to make a difference in the communities we serve, and we do this through volunteerism and financial contributions. An 800-1000 word essay related to Give Big is part of the application process.
Give Big Essay Question
In this year's essay, tell us how you feel about the concept of “people helping people.” Give an example of how an organization (credit union, bank, retailer) has made a difference in your community/school or tell us about any occasion you have had to give back and make a difference. Include how you plan to “Give Big” to your community, school, or the state Michigan if you earn one of our scholarships.
Congratulations to our 2022 Community Choice Foundation Scholars!
Why support the Community Choice Foundation?
The Community Choice Foundation is one of the largest scholarship programs in the credit union industry both in Michigan and nationally, awarding more than $1.4 million in scholarships to over 200 students since 2009. This program is funded by the Credit Union and the generous support of members, team members and local businesses.
The Community Choice Foundation provides valuable networking and support, beyond financial aid, to help our Scholars explore valuable opportunities, innovate in their areas of passion and give back to their local communities. Through partnerships with Michigan non-profits, Scholars are provided opportunities to Give Big to communities throughout the state.