Meriwest Community Foundation Celebrates Transformative Inaugural Year of Impact

Nonprofit established by Meriwest Credit Union recognized for financial literacy programs and college scholarships for underserved youth.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Meriwest Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established by Meriwest Credit Union, is reflecting on a powerful inaugural year in 2025 marked by significant awards, expanded educational impact, and deepened commitment to empowering underserved youth through financial literacy and college access.

Why it matters

The Meriwest Community Foundation's work highlights the importance of providing financial education and college support to underserved youth, helping to create more equitable opportunities for growth and success in the local community.

The details

In 2025, the Foundation facilitated 155 financial education events serving over 10,000 community members, awarded $22,000 in scholarships to 19 first-generation/underserved college students, and was recognized by local colleges and high schools for its award-winning financial education and life skills programs. The Foundation also hosted its inaugural Meriwest Equity Competition at San Jose State University's Lucas Graduate College.

  • The Meriwest Community Foundation was officially launched in 2025.
  • In 2025, the Foundation facilitated a total of 155 financial education events.
  • In 2025, the Foundation awarded $22,000 in scholarships to 19 first generation/underserved college students.

The players

Meriwest Community Foundation

A 501(c)(3) nonprofit established by Meriwest Credit Union, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the communities it serves through education, financial literacy, and community development programs.

Helen Grays-Jones

Executive Director of the Meriwest Community Foundation.

Chad Maze

Foundation Board Chair, Meriwest Community Foundation.

Winston Ashby

Executive Director of the PARTI Program, a nonprofit partner of the Meriwest Community Foundation.

Patrick Willis

Former San Francisco 49er, who presented the Financial Resiliency Champion award to the Meriwest Community Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“Our focus remains on fundraising efforts and connecting with donors to expand opportunities for underserved youth.”

— Helen Grays-Jones, Executive Director of the Meriwest Community Foundation (natlawreview.com)

“In our Foundation's first year, we moved from idea to impact. Led by Helen Grays Jones, our team continues to step up and give back to the communities and causes that they care about, and our commitment to providing financial advice and education is opening new doors across the Bay Area.”

— Chad Maze, Foundation Board Chair, Meriwest Community Foundation (natlawreview.com)

What’s next

The Meriwest Community Foundation looks forward to expanding its reach and impact in 2026 and beyond, continuing to provide financial education, college scholarships, and community partnerships to underserved youth in the Bay Area.

The takeaway

The Meriwest Community Foundation's successful inaugural year demonstrates the positive impact that can be achieved through a mission-driven nonprofit focused on empowering underserved youth with financial literacy and educational opportunities, setting a strong foundation for continued growth and community support.