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We're proud to recognize six outstanding students who have each been awarded a 2026 East River Federal Credit Union Scholarship! These students represent the future, not only in education and leadership, but also in financial responsibility. As part of the application, we asked:
“Only 57% of Americans are considered to be financially literate. What does financial literacy mean to you personally, and what role does East River Federal Credit Union play in helping you achieve that?”
Here’s what our winners had to say about how East River FCU is helping them grow financially:
π¬ "Financial literacy, to me, means having the ability to manage my money in a way that supports my fututure instead of creating stress. It includes budgeting, avoiding debt, and consistently saving money. More importantly, it represents independence. When I understand how to handle my finances, I feel more in control and less overwhelmed about what’s ahead. Overall, financial literacy is about building a stable and independent future. East River Federal Credit Union has helped me take important steps toward that by giving me the tools and experience I need to make smart financial decisions. Because of that, I feel more confident in my ability to manage my finances and work toward my long-term goals. – Abby
π¬ "Financial literacy from my perspective is being wise with your money. To me, that means understanding how to manage what you have, making smart choices, and not spending more than what you make. Being financially literate helps you stay organized, prepared, and less stressed about the future. It is not about being rich, but about being responsible and making decisions that benefit you in the long run. Overall, financial literacy means being wise with your money so you can take care of yourself and your future. With the help of East River Federal Credit Union, I am learning how to make smart financial decisions that will support my goals and help me succeed both during college and beyond." – Bailey
π¬ "The textbook definition of financial literacy is the ability to make good decisions with money through the use of financial strategies - but to me, financial literacy means opportunity. Everyone wants to pursue their dreams, but oftentimes those dreams cost money; financial literacy helps us fund our dreams. Using our financial literacy, we can budget, invest, and strategically save to ensure we have enough money to chase our dreams. East River Federal Credit Union helps us achieve financial literacy in two main ways: education and transparency. They educate members of our community by providing educational resources online and linking to financial advisors on their website. However, what has helped me most personally is their transparency. Their staff make certain that members know the details of their financial actions; thanks to them, I have never made a financial decision without knowing what I'm signing up for. – Graydon
π¬ "Financial literacy, to me, means understanding how to manage money in a way that supports both your present needs and your future goals. It is about knowing how to budget, save, and make responsible financial decisions. Growing up, I have seen how important these skills are, not just in theory, but in real life through my family's experiences. Financial literacy is not only achieved through education but also through experience and access to helpful resources. In conclusion, financial literacy is a critical skill that impacts every aspect of a person's life. By improving education and access to resources, individuals can gain the knowledge they need to make smart financial choices. Organizations like East River play a key role in this process by providing guidance, support, and opportunities for growth. – Jadyn
π¬ "What financial literacy means to me is knowing how to make smart money decisions now so I can be prepared in the future. Through my knowledge of money and the help of East River Federal Credit Union I have started saving and created smart money habits. Budgeting is also a huge part of my financial literacy. Through the use of budgeting I can prioritize what is a want versus what I need. This helps set me up for success and allows me to have everything I need rather than everything I want. Building smart financial habits now will only better me off in the future and make sure I will be financially literate. Banking with East River Federal Credit Union allows me to improve my financial status and constantly learn more ways I can cultivate a secure standing in my future. – Kennedy B
π¬ "To me, financial literacy is more than just knowing how to manage money. It is about creating a sense of control and confidence in my own financial future. It means being able to budget, make good decisions about where my money goes, and still having enough left over to build savings for the future. Organizations like East River Federal Credit Union play an important role in helping individuals take those first steps toward financial literacy. They don't just provide financial services; they offer guidance, tools, and encouragement that empower people to make better decisions with their money. For someone like me, having that kind of support creates a sense of reassurance and motivation. It shows that financial success isn't out of reach, but something that can be achieved with the right knowledge and habits. – Kennedy S
We're honored to play a role in each of these students' financial journeys. Join us in congratulating them — and stay inspired by their commitment to lifelong financial learning!
East River Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, financial cooperative that exists solely to serve the financial needs of its members. It is owned and democratically controlled by its members. Credit unions serve a common bond, and place helping people before all other goals. Credit unions are built around a philosophy of volunteerism, and feel strongly that these efforts are paramount to maintaining a community’s quality of life.
East River Federal Credit Union Educational Scholarship
Through our strong desire to promote community involvement through volunteerism, community service, and leadership and to increase educational opportunities, East River Federal Credit Union has established six (6) $1000.00 Scholarships. The scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors or currently enrolled full-time college, university or vocational students.
2026 Application (PDF)
Scholarship Application Due Date: March 27, 2026.
If you need a paper application or assistance with the application, please contact Katie at katie@eastriverfcu.com or call 605-256-8285.
Please mail or email applications and all supporting documents to: East River Federal Credit Union 220 S Harth Ave., Madison 57042
marketing@eastriverfcu.com