On this year’s Giving Tuesday, November 28, 2023, Raiz Federal Credit Union commemorated the day by awarding a total of $82,500 in scholarships and grants to students, education professionals, and local non-profits. This annual scholarship opportunity began as a way for Raiz to honor its heritage rooted in education and remains empowering individuals today on their journey of paving new pathways forward.

Raiz awarded 19 recipients from various categories including, the Raiz Community Scholarship, Michael Sandoval Memorial Scholarship, Raiz Up Professional Development Grant, and the Together We Raiz Community Grant. The Raiz Up Professional Development Grant, which was introduced in July 2022, is a testament to Raiz’s dedication to educators in the Region 19 district. Max Villaronga, Raiz FCU’s President and CEO, expressed his gratitude, “May this grant fuel your personal growth, enabling you to shape the minds of tomorrow with even greater impact. A heartfelt thank you for your unwavering dedication to nurturing the leaders of the future." Additionally, the Together We Raiz Community Grant was established to uplift local non-profit organizations. “We share this hand-up to continue the selfless services of non-profits that enrich the fabric of El Paso. Their commitment to empowering and serving our community resonates deeply, and we are honored to champion each cause.”, shared Mr. Villaronga.

Raiz would like to extend congratulations to all the scholarship and grant recipients of 2023 listed below for their dedication and remarkable achievements so far.

$1,000 Raiz Community Scholarship:

• Chris Rojas

• Ramon Bracamontes

• Ruby Shivery

• Alex Acquah

• Brianna Ophord

• Mia Pinon

• Hector Dimakis

• Armadeus Ramirez

• Camryn Medina

• Jacob Fang

$5,000 Raizing Leaders Scholarship (UTEP College of Education Students)

• Elanor Morgun

$5,000 Michael Sandoval Memorial Scholarship

• Hannah Tellez

$3,500 Raiz Up Professional Development Grant

• Abigail Poitevint

• Izabela McCage

• Jerimiah Hunter Nelson

• Nancy Ramirez

• Patricia Montiel

$25,000 Together We Raiz Grant

• Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

• Eagle’s Treasures in Heaven