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 $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 $2,500 and $5,000 continuing education scholarships to students looking to further their studies, pursue higher degrees, or get recertified. Scholarship amount is based on pursued program and funds available at time of awarding.
Skilled Trades/CTE
Skilled trades will play an important role in Michigan’s future. We offer $2,500 scholarships for students who are seeking vocational training or certification through accredited programs.
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.
Scholarship Application available starting December 1, 2023.
Hear From One of Our Scholars
Congratulations to our 2023 Scholars
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
For this year's essay, applicants were asked to tell us how they feel about the concept of “people helping people.” They were to give an example of how an organization (credit union, bank, retailer) has made a difference in their community/school or tell us about any occasion they have had to give back and make a difference. They were also asked to include how they plan to “Give Big” to their community, school, or the state Michigan if they earn one of our scholarships.
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.