SELCO Steps Up: Credit union offers $3,500 scholarships to 20 individuals

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — There's good news tonight as SELCO Community Credit Union has opened applications for its "SELCO Steps Up" scholarship program. The credit union will award $3,500 each to 20 individuals to support their education.

The scholarship program has been in operation for 36 years. To be eligible for the award, an applicant or one of their family members must have an account with the credit union.

Cheryl Cauthon, branch manager for SELCO Community Credit Union, said the organization's history is closely tied to the education field. "We were founded by teachers," Cauthon said. "So, you know that without teachers, without education, SELCO wouldn't be here. And so supporting educators and supporting students in their journeys, educational journeys is really important to us."

The scholarships are designed to be flexible and are not limited to traditional high school graduates. The program also accepts applications from individuals who are returning to college after a break in their education.

Recipients can use the funds for a wide range of costs. The scholarship money is not restricted to tuition and can be applied to any expense related to continuing a student's education.