FORT WAYNE, IN (July 20, 2026) |
3Rivers Credit Union will invest $100,000 in scholarship and educational funding opportunities in 2026 through its long-running Scholarship Contest and a partnership supporting students pursuing careers in the skilled trades.
The credit union recently awarded $90,000 to 50 student members through its annual Scholarship Contest. Together with the 3Rivers Trades Scholarship, offered in partnership with the Questa Foundation, a northeast Indiana nonprofit focused on education and workforce development, 3Rivers expects to provide a total of $100,000 in educational funding in 2026.
As part of its longstanding commitment to education, 3Rivers has awarded nearly $500,000 to student members over the last decade alone.
"Receiving a scholarship can make real difference, but it's only one piece of the puzzle," said Jordan Hersey, Youth & College Advisor at 3Rivers. "Many students and families are navigating some of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make, often for the first time. Our goal is to be a trusted resource throughout that journey—helping them understand their options, access available resources, and make informed decisions that support both their educational goals and long-term financial well-being."
Unlike many scholarship programs focused exclusively on recent high school graduates, the 3Rivers Scholarship Contest is open to a wide range of learners. Applicants may be pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees, trade certifications, cosmetology school, continuing education opportunities, or returning to school later in life. Students can choose to respond to an annual prompt through either a written essay or original artwork.
In addition to scholarship funding, 3Rivers encourages applicants to connect with its Youth & College Support Team during the application period. Students who complete a financial wellness conversation become eligible for additional scholarship drawings while also gaining access to guidance on FAFSA completion, scholarship searches, education funding options, career planning, and other resources.
The credit union's commitment to supporting students extends beyond scholarship season. 3Rivers' Youth & College Support Team works with students and families year-round through school partnerships, classroom presentations, community events, and one-on-one conversations focused on helping students prepare for life after high school.
The organization's support of skilled trades education has also expanded through its partnership with the Questa Foundation. The 3Rivers Trades Scholarship assists eligible apprentices pursuing certifications and licensure in approved skilled trades fields, helping address workforce needs while creating additional pathways to career success.
"Success doesn't look the same for every student," Hersey said. "Some are heading to four-year universities, some are pursuing skilled trades, and others are returning to the classroom after years in the workforce. What they all have in common is the need for support, encouragement, and access to resources. We're proud to play a role in helping them take that next step."
The scholarship program’s impact extends beyond financial support for students. This year’s winning artwork will be professionally framed by local studio Kreative Framing and displayed alongside work from other local artists during an event hosted by downtown Fort Wayne-based art gallery, Gallery 02, later this summer.
The businesses and organizations featured in the student artwork will also be invited to consider purchasing or displaying the pieces at their locations. The approach gives students a public platform for their work while supporting local arts partners and creating added visibility for the places that inspired the submissions.
This year’s 3Rivers Scholarship Contest winners and artwork can be viewed at 3riversfcu.org/scholarship.