SAN JOSE, Calif.–Meriwest Credit Union has announced the creation of the Meriwest Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that it said is dedicated to promoting financial wellness, educational advancement opportunities, and community resilience across the Bay Area and beyond.
“The Meriwest Community Foundation aims to strengthen communities through initiatives focused on financial literacy, education, and social impact,” the foundation said. “Key programs include a new financial literacy initiative for young adults and expanded scholarships for low-income students, designed to address critical community needs and foster long-term economic stability.”
The foundation has appointed Helen Grays-Jones as its inaugural executive director.
‘Improving Lives’
“Our commitment to serving our members extends outside of our branches and into our communities,” the organization said. “Meriwest and our employees are equally dedicated to improving the lives of others.”
Added Board Chair Chad Maze, “(Grays-Jones’) leadership and passion for community empowerment make her the ideal choice for expanding Meriwest’s legacy of financial literacy, youth programs, and local outreach.”
Grays-Jones brings over 30 years of leadership in banking, financial services, and community engagement to her role.
‘Honored With Distinctions’
A recognized leader in the financial and nonprofit sectors, Grays-Jones has been honored with distinctions such as induction into the Black Legends Hall of Fame, the MLK Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award, Volunteer of the Year from the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), and inclusion in the Silicon Valley Business Journal’s Power 100, the organization said.
She currently serves on the Executive Board of the Bill Wilson Center and the SEMI Foundation, with past service on the Board of Directors for Mission City Community Fund and Project Hired.
“I am honored to join the Meriwest Community Foundation and lead its efforts to uplift our communities,” Grays-Jones said in a statement. “From financial literacy to educational equity, the Foundation’s work touches lives in meaningful ways. I’m excited to build on its legacy and create new opportunities for growth, connection, and empowerment.”
