First Tech Credit Union's Annual Education Grants Awards $891,000

In its ongoing commitment to support the next generation of leaders, thinkers and innovators, First Tech Federal Credit Union is providing $891,000 in grants to 54 nonprofit organizations in Oregon, Washington and California. Organizations receiving funding are dedicated to supporting children in underserved communities with an emphasis on access, equity and inclusion, especially in the areas of science, technology, education and mathematics (STEM).

“Education access and equity is more important than ever before,” said Nicole Frisch, community engagement senior director at First Tech. “As we come together to navigate distance learning, we are committed to organizations focused on supporting underserved populations and improving access to STEM learning opportunities. We are always proud of our partnerships, but this year we’re especially honored to partner with organizations who have so quickly pivoted to support children and families in these critical times.”

The $891,000 awarded is part of First Tech’s ongoing philanthropic work within local communities. First Tech is committed to building strong relationships with organizations that are helping to create an inclusive community where children have the tools they need to learn and succeed.

Directed to organizations supporting the next generation of leaders and thinkers, one of this year’s grant recipients includes Oregon-based Free Geek, whose mission is to create sustainable reuse technology, enable digital access, and provide education to create a community that empowers people to realize their potential. With funds from First Tech, Free Geek is able to continue providing technology to those who need it most.

“First Tech has long been a trusted friend and supporter of Free Geek, but at this critical time, they are pulling out all the stops to ensure we include everyone in our digital future,” said Hilary Shohoney, Development Manager at Free Geek. “We're grateful to have their partnership not just in the form of a monetary contribution, but also helping us to host technology donation drives and galvanize the business community around our cause. Technology access is a fundamental component in academic success now more than ever; every student needs access to a computer in order to engage meaningfully at school. First Tech's ongoing support of our Plug into Portland program as well as the new COVID addressing TechNOW program has allowed us to provide free computers to those that need them most and right now they are going even further to help us make that possible and allow us to develop innovative solutions for helping even more kids.”

First Tech’s Annual Education Grants have been awarded to the following organizations in
Oregon:

Beaverton Education Foundation (Beaverton) $70,000 to support the Beaverton School District Future Bus, a program that supports and encourages all students to explore academic experiences in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) (statewide) $50,000 to support OMSI’s strategic accessibility and equity initiatives, providing more opportunities to reach and better serve the diverse community.

Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest (Portland Metro Area) $45,000 to support Eureka!, a STEM-based approach to engaging and empowering 8th – 12th grade girls to build confidence in STEM-related fields.

Free Geek (Portland Metro Area) $40,000 to support TechNOW, a digital access program providing technology and training to K-12 students in the Portland-Metro area with a goal of increasing academic achievement for all.

Adelante Mujeres (Washington County) $20,000 to support Chicas STEM, a program that provides culturally-appropriate STEM opportunities to more than 600 youth throughout Washington County.

Centro Cultural de Washington County (Cornelius and Hillsboro) $15,000 to expand and amplify the Lego Robotics program, making it more accessible for youth of color from K-12 and to create a more cohesive pipeline for STEM education, especially for girls.

Financial Beginnings - Oregon (Washington County) $10,000 to support and enhance the financial capability of thousands of Washington-county residents by providing critical program-related costs.