As a child, the dream of going to college can feel exactly like that—just a dream. Even when parents work full-time jobs, it is a cruel awakening to realize how systemic barriers intentionally block the path to higher education. These barriers—financial insecurity, fluctuating job markets, unstable housing, and unexpected emergencies—directly affect a child’s ability to concentrate in school and see college as an attainable goal.
For many immigrant and first-generation families, the college path can feel unfamiliar, intimidating, and simply out of reach. And yet, how can the next generation of leaders hold tightly to their dreams of a college education while also taking steps to make those dreams come true?
The answer starts with access and support. There is an urgent need to invest in our youth. That investment begins with partnerships like the one led by Excite Credit Union (Excite CU)—a community-owned financial institution committed to creating opportunity in East San José. Unlike commercial banks, credit unions like Excite CU are owned by their members—people from the community they serve. That difference matters. And the services catering to our youth are something special. Excite CU wants Eastside families to know about two free children’s programs to support college and training:
Step-Up Savings from Excite is specifically designed for children in East San José. The program offers a free starting deposit from Excite, along with savings matches and bonuses. When children know that their parents are saving for college, it makes a significant difference in their academic achievement.
The state of California offers CalKIDS, a free college scholarship program that supports two groups.
1. Every child born in California on or after July 1st, 2022, has a CalKIDS scholarship
2. Eligible low-income public school students in grades 2 through 16 have at least $500 in free scholarship funds waiting to be claimed. Over 85% of our children in the Alum Rock and Franklin-McKinley school districts have these funds available, yet only about 12% of parents have claimed the money. Eligibility can be confirmed at www.calkids.org
Caretakers, you are part of the equation for success. That means your voice, your outreach, and your advocacy matter. Share the information about CalKIDS statewide with your neighbors and relatives. Additionally, Step Up Savings is available to nearly all children in East San José. To the caregivers and champions raising the next generation: Your physical and emotional support already leaves a lasting impact. Now, investing in their dreams can be your next powerful step—and you don’t have to do it alone.
Connect with Excite Credit Union to learn more about CalKIDS and Step Up Savings. And connect with financial tools that support your child’s career journey. Let’s ensure that higher education isn’t just a dream, but a reachable, resourced reality for every family in East San José.
Visit ExciteCU.org or email today to learn how to take that next step. Jerry Uribe juribe@excitecu.org
