Jackson, MI - American 1 Credit Union recently awarded 10 need-based scholarships of $1,000 each to graduating high school seniors from southern Michigan.

The awards are part of American 1’s annual Community Involvement Scholarship Program. The scholarship application focused on why the student needed the scholarship and how receiving an education would support them in changing their life – while also positively impacting their community.

Each student applicant submitted an essay explaining their financial need for the scholarship and discussing how education will help improve their personal life and community. The scholarships are funded through American 1’s Skip-a-Pay program, where credit union members can choose to skip one month’s loan payment for $25. A portion of the $25 fee is then used to fund the scholarship program.

“It’s so important to recognize students not only for their academics, but also for their hard work and dedication outside the classroom,” said Michelle Pittenger, Partner Event Specialist at American 1. “I’m honored to be part of a company that acknowledges the hard work of community members and am pleased to announce we have officially exceeded the $200,000 mark in awarding scholarships.”

The 2021 American 1 Community Involvement Scholarship winners are:

• Suzanne B. – Columbia Central High School

• Sarah G. – Grass Lake High School

• Amber S. – Camden-Frontier High School

• Jocelyn M. – Jackson High School

• Julian M. – Dexter High School

• Ben P. – Jackson Preparatory and Early College

• Lauren H. – Hanover-Horton High School

• Mathew B. – Chelsea High School

• Amber H. – Napoleon High School

• Drew S. – Hanover-Horton High School

PHOTO: Mathew B, one of the recipients of this year’s scholarship, holds up his check from American 1 Credit Union. Mathew was one of 10 recent high school graduates from southern Michigan to be awarded.

Established in 1950, American 1 Credit Union today serves over 59,000 members with branches in Jackson, Washtenaw, Hillsdale, Calhoun, Lenawee, and Wayne counties. American 1 is proud to serve the members of their communities by creating financial wellness through personal everyday banking.