September 16, 2024
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union (SchoolsFirst FCU) was founded in 1934 when 126 school employees in Santa Ana pooled $1,200 to look out for each other’s financial well-being. Since those humble beginnings, SchoolsFirst FCU has grown to serve more than 1.4 million members. It is the largest credit union in California and the largest in the nation serving school employees and their families. SchoolsFirst FCU is headquartered in Tustin, with 70 branches throughout California, including 22 in Orange County.
People Helping People in the Communities We Serve
SchoolsFirst FCU practices the credit union philosophy of “people helping people” by contributing to the local community. The Credit Union focuses on supporting initiatives that benefit school employees and educational programs by partnering with K-12 schools, community colleges and universities.
In collaboration with the Orange County Department of Education, SchoolsFirst FCU established the Education Foundation for California Schools, a non-profit dedicated to enhancing educational programs in public and private schools across the state. Since its founding in 2003, the foundation has awarded over $2.2 million in grants to more than 875 teachers.
Financial education is key to promoting financial well-being, inclusivity and equity within the community. The Credit Union offers hands-on workshops designed for school employees, students and their families. In one of the most popular workshops, Bite of Reality, SchoolsFirst FCU team member volunteers guide students through practical, financial-management simulations. This initiative increases financial literacy and equips students with knowledge and skills to achieve financial success.
A Team Dedicated to Giving Back
The SchoolsFirst FCU team actively supports the Credit Union’s causes. Each year, the Credit Union donates thousands of backpacks filled with school supplies and distributes them to students who need them the most. Team members also take part in annual fundraising events benefiting local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH), the charity of choice for credit unions.
A long-time supporter of CHOC, SchoolsFirst FCU participates in the annual CHOC Walk in the Park at Disneyland Park. Throughout the state, SchoolsFirst FCU team members engage in various fundraising efforts to aid children and their families who receive care from CMNH member hospitals in the areas we serve, including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Rady Children’s Hospital – San Diego and UC Davis Children’s Hospital in Sacramento.
Carrying the Service-Oriented Mission into the Future
Community engagement has been part of SchoolsFirst FCU since its founding. Through active participation in local initiatives and support for the educational community, SchoolsFirst FCU plays a key role in strengthening the community. By upholding their commitment to member service and keeping true to the “people helping people” philosophy, SchoolsFirst FCU helps members on their path to financial well-being and contributes to thriving communities in Orange County and beyond.
