SchoolsFirst FCU Enhances Partnership with Los Rios Community College District

Sponsored events at American River College recognize achievements of staff and student workforce, strengthening community colleges and empowering the individuals who contribute to their success

TUSTIN, Calif., March 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in California and the largest serving school employees and their families, today announced that it has enhanced its ongoing collaboration with American River College (ARC), a key institution within the Los Rios Community College District in the Greater Sacramento region, by supporting programs that recognize the hard work, commitment and dedication of the classified professionals who play a crucial role in the college's operations by serving in non-teaching positions. This initiative is part of a comprehensive commitment to the Los Rios Community College District and its colleges, with additional support being directed to those who work at the district's other three colleges and the district office, spotlighting the individuals and teams working behind the scenes to ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally.  

The partnership between SchoolsFirst FCU and ARC goes beyond financial support, embodying a shared commitment to foster educational growth and workforce readiness within the Greater Sacramento community. By investing in scholarships, professional development and celebrations, SchoolsFirst FCU directly contributes to the success and well-being of the Los Rios Community College District's staff and student workforce, many of whom balance their roles as employees and students. Nearly 20% of ARC's employees are also students, with 87% of those being student employees and temporary staff pursuing further education. This dual role of employee/student confirms the importance of additional support to ensure their academic and professional growth.

"Our partnership with American River College reflects SchoolsFirst FCU's commitment to improving the lives of school employees," said Josh Smith, vice president, school and community relations at SchoolsFirst FCU. "By supporting programs that recognize the contributions of school employees and encourage their professional development, we're empowering their success and the overall success of ARC in the community."

The partnership between SchoolsFirst FCU and ARC includes several key initiatives, including a new scholarship endowment that will provide classified employees with opportunities for continued education and professional growth, an annual appreciation event that will spotlight and uplift the contributions of ARC classified employees, and financial literacy programs to help provide additional support in an area of education not often included in public settings.

Recent and upcoming sponsored events at American River College during 2025 include: 

• Feb. 19 - "The Best of ARC" State of the College Breakfast with Dr. Lisa Cardoza, President of American River College, hosting the school's partners and major donors
• Feb. 21 - Admissions and Records Department Professional Development Day
• Feb. 28 - Financial Aid Department Professional Development Day
• Apr. 10 - ARC's Administrators, Faculty and Staff Retirement Luncheon
• Apr. 11 - ARC High School Counselors Conference to improve alignment between secondary and post-secondary education
• May 1 - Classified Employee Recognition Day and beginning of May Scholarship Awards season

"At American River College, we deeply value the dedication and hard work of our classified professionals and student employees, who play an essential role in supporting our students and community," said American River College President Lisa Cardoza. "Our partnership with SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union strengthens our commitment to these incredible individuals by providing opportunities for professional growth, celebrating accomplishments, and financial wellness. We are grateful for SchoolsFirst FCU's investment in our community and their ongoing support in fostering an environment where both our employees and students can thrive."

About SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union

SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is the largest credit union serving school employees, and once again Forbes has named SchoolsFirst FCU the top credit union in California. Serving school employees and their families, the organization is dedicated to delivering World-Class Personal Service and improving the financial lives of its Members. Today they serve more than 1.4 million Members with a full range of financial products and services. SchoolsFirst FCU was founded in 1934, when 126 school employees pooled $1,200 and established a Member-owned cooperative to help improve each other's lives. In 2024, the Credit Union reported more than $30 billion in assets and remains the largest credit union in California and the third largest credit union in the United States. For more information about SchoolsFirst FCU, visit schoolsfirstfcu.org. 

Insured by NCUA.

SOURCE SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union