Picture this: sun-soaked Santa Anita Park, the thunder of hooves on the track, and 55 people gathered not just for the thrill of the race, but to make a real difference.
That was the scene at the California Credit Union Foundation‘s 3rd Annual Day at the Races on May 15, 2026—and spoiler alert, it was a winning day all around.
The event pulled in an impressive $40,000, every penny earmarked for scholarships, teacher grants, and community programs across Southern California. Not too shabby for an afternoon of horses and good company.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us and made this event so meaningful,” said Marvel Ford, President of the California Credit Union Foundation. “The enthusiasm and generosity of our sponsors, partners, and community friends reflect a deep, collective commitment to expanding opportunity and strengthening the communities we serve.”
More Than Just a Day Out
This wasn’t your average corporate outing with awkward small talk and rubbery chicken. Business partners, credit union colleagues, community leaders, and supporters came together around a mission that actually matters—creating brighter futures for students, educators, and families who need it most.
Between races, guests participated in a sweepstakes drawing that tacked on another $1,500 to the Foundation’s coffers. The Foundation also took a moment to acknowledge some key supporters, including Assemblymember John Harabedian’s Office (represented by Miles Kealing, who presented a Certificate of Recognition), along with credit union partners Cal Coast Credit Union, Logix Credit Union, Los Angeles Federal Credit Union, and Premier America Credit Union.
Where the Money Actually Goes
Here’s something worth noting: California Credit Union covers 100% of the Foundation’s administrative expenses. Translation? Every single dollar donated goes directly to programs that help people. No overhead nibbling away at your contribution.
And the Foundation isn’t messing around with small numbers. Since launching in 2024 as the philanthropic arm of California Credit Union, they’ve been putting serious resources into education, financial wellness, community investment, and military family support. In 2025 alone, they awarded $179,000 in grants and sponsorships, partnered with more than 90 schools and community organizations, and positively impacted over 34,500 lives.
Let that sink in for a second. 34,500 lives. That’s not just a feel-good stat—that’s actual impact.
The MVPs Who Made It Happen
Big events need big support, and this one had it. The Foundation gave special shout-outs to top sponsors Allied Solutions and Advanced Network, Inc., whose contributions were crucial to making the day successful.
Additional thanks went to event sponsors including Auto Expert, California Credit Union, Essent Mortgage Insurance, Fidelity National Title, Fiserv, GL Foster Construction, Inc., Hartman Security, HUB International, OneDigital Retirement, Parron Hall Corporation, SWBC, and Turner, Warren, Hwang & Conrad AC.
Want to get involved or learn more about what the Foundation is doing? Head over to ccu.com/foundation to see how you can support students, teachers, and communities across Southern California. Because as this day at the races proved, when people come together with purpose, everybody wins.
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