Supporting Our Communities: Scholarships and Charitable Giving

Each spring at our annual meeting, we celebrate people and organizations who align with our mission to enhance the financial well-being of others. We show support for the meaningful differences they make in our communities through our charitable giving initiatives and the Doris Skora Educational Scholarship program.

This year, we awarded charitable grants to organizations creating positive impact and reducing financial hardships across our community, including:

• Jacob’s Heart Children's Cancer Support Services. Our grant will help provide direct assistance for essential needs such as housing, transportation, and daily living expenses, allowing families to focus on care and healing.
• Rebuilding Together Silicon Valley. Our grant will support minor home repairs and accessibility improvements, helping create safer living environments for those they serve.
• Operation Freedom Paws. Our grant will help remove barriers to participation by supporting transportation and access to on-site mental health services.
• The African American Community Service Agency. Our grant will support their Leadership Academy, helping students gain mentorship, leadership skills, and career opportunities. 
• Catholic Charities of Silicon Valley. Our grant will help fund programs such as housing assistance, emergency support, and financial education services.
• Rebekah Children’s Services. Our grant will help fund mental health services and youth development programs.

In addition to supporting community organizations, we also honored recipients of the Doris Skora Educational Scholarship program, one of the ways we invest in the future of our members.

Established by former CommonWealth CEO Doris Skora, who led the credit union from 1971 to 1995, the scholarship program reflects her lasting commitment to education and community impact. More than financial support, the scholarship program is another opportunity to bring our mission to life. As part of the application process, applicants complete financial literacy education to build money management skills that support them throughout college and beyond.

We believe education can open doors to brighter futures, and that support and opportunity can make all the difference. Our scholarship program recognizes Difference Makers—individuals who uplift others, strengthen their communities, and are pursuing a better future through education. 

High School Scholarship Recipients 

• Nicolas C.  — Christopher High School.
• Emmaleen H.  — Live Oak High School.
• Logan R. — Monte Vista Christian School.
• Anden R. — Live Oak High School.  
• Hannah W.   — Summerville Union High School.

Pictured left to right: Parent accepting on behalf of Anden R., who was unable to attend; Logan R., Hannah W., Nicolas C., and Emmaleen H.

Continuing Education Scholarship Recipients 

• Jorge C. — Gavilan College. 
• Analise D. — Evergreen Valley College.
• Camilo R. — Santa Clara University. 
• Mika S. — University of California, Los Angeles. 
• Justin T. — San José State University. 

Pictured left to right: Parent accepting on behalf of Mika S., who was unable to attend; Justin T., Analise D., Camilo R., and Jorge C.

Whether supporting local nonprofits serving those in need or investing in students pursuing their educational goals, we remain committed to improving the financial lives of our members and the wider community.