Apply for 2026 College Scholarships
If You Had 24 Hours and $1,000 to Solve a Problem in Your Community, What Would You Do?
Graduation is an exciting time for students and families across Ashtabula County. As seniors prepare for college, trade school, or other post-secondary education, finding ways to help manage education costs is more important than ever.
Community First Credit Union, proudly serving Ashtabula County and partnering as a member of The Northeast CU Outreach Alliance, is excited to share an opportunity that rewards creativity, community involvement, and forward-thinking ideas.
A Scholarship That Starts With a Simple Question
Students are invited to answer one powerful question:
If you had 24 hours and $1,000 to solve a problem in your community, how would you spend it?
Your answer could help you earn one of three $1,000 college scholarships awarded through The Northeast CU Outreach Alliance. These scholarships can be used toward college, trade school, or other approved post-secondary education programs.
This scholarship encourages students to think about how they can make a positive difference in their hometowns while preparing for their educational future.
Supporting Students and Families in Ashtabula County
At Community First Credit Union, we believe investing in local students strengthens our entire community. As a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative, our mission is to help families across Ashtabula County reach their financial goals — including continuing education.
By participating in The Northeast CU Outreach Alliance scholarship program, we are proud to help local graduates take the next step toward their dreams while encouraging community leadership and innovation.
Scholarship Details
The Northeast CU Outreach Alliance will award:
Three scholarships
$1,000 each
Funds can be used for college, technical school, or other post-secondary education
Eligibility Requirements
Students may apply if they meet the following criteria:
Must be a high school senior or post-secondary student
Must be a member in good standing of a credit union, including Community First.
Must belong to a credit union located in one of the following counties:
Ashtabula
Cuyahoga
Geauga
Lake
Lorain
If you or your student is not currently a credit union member, you may still qualify. If you live, work, attend school, or worship in Ashtabula County, you can become a member of Community First Credit Union and apply for the scholarships.
Only one submission per student will be accepted. Additional entries will be disqualified.
Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
Thoughtfulness and creativity of their responses
Strength and clarity of the essay
Grammar and overall communication skills
Demonstrated understanding of community needs
Students are encouraged to share original ideas that demonstrate leadership and community awareness.
Important Deadline for Students
Completed scholarship applications must be submitted by:
11:59 PM on April 6, 2026
Late submissions cannot be accepted, so families should plan ahead to ensure all materials are completed and submitted on time.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email. Students should:
- Download the application and instructions
Include their full name in the email subject line
Attach all completed application materials in one email
If the applicant is under age 18, include a parent or guardian signature (handwritten or eSigned)
Ensure all responses are typed (except signature if handwritten)
Completed applications should be emailed to the address on the application.
Why Credit Unions Support Education
Credit unions like Community First are built differently than traditional banks. We are owned by our members and operate as not-for-profit financial institutions. Across Ohio, credit unions serve more than 3 million members, helping families save money, access affordable loans, and plan for major life milestones — including education.
Scholarship programs like this one demonstrate our commitment to building stronger communities throughout Ashtabula County, Jefferson, and Northeast Ohio.
Community First Credit Union Is Here to Help Your Family Prepare for the Future
Beyond scholarships, Community First Credit Union offers financial guidance, student accounts, and lending solutions designed to help families manage education costs responsibly.
If your student is preparing for graduation or continuing their education, our local team is ready to help them start their financial journey with confidence.
Start Planning Today
Opportunities like this scholarship not only provide financial assistance but also encourage students to think creatively about improving the communities they call home.
Students throughout Ashtabula County, including Ashtabula and Jefferson, are encouraged to apply and share their ideas for positive change.
The next great community solution could begin with your student’s imagination — and help support their education along the way.