IRWINDALE, Calif.– Rize Credit Union has been recognized with several national awards celebrating its leadership, community impact, and brand innovation. Awards span multiple categories, highlighting Rize’s commitment to strengthening the communities it serves throughout Southern California and Nevada, the credit union said.
“At Rize, we believe lasting financial security begins with access, knowledge, and a community that cares,” said Lenny Vallone, chief growth officer for Rize Credit Union. “These acknowledgements reflect the work our team does every day to expand opportunity and empower the communities we serve. When our communities thrive, we all rise.”
Rize President and CEO Jennifer Oliver received the Distinguished Service Award at the 2025 Credit Union Awards, hosted by Nevada and California Credit Unions to celebrate excellence across the industry. This award honors credit union professionals whose sustained contributions have strengthened both the credit union movement and the communities it serves. She was also honored by the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles for Rize’s continued community impact, particularly in establishing the Amigo Lounge, which provides a welcoming space for families to access financial education and pathways to economic opportunity.
“From community partnerships to outreach initiatives and beyond, none of this would be possible without the dedication and leadership of our president and CEO, Jennifer Oliver,” continued Vallone. “Jennifer is a testament to our industry and our organization, and it’s her unwavering compassion that allows us to serve our communities with heart.”
Additionally, Rize was honored at Comfort Cases’ 2025 Glitz & Glamour Gala as the Milton Hershey Award recipient, an award given annually to an organization demonstrating a major impact in the community in partnership with Comfort Cases.
In 2025, Rize donated 1,000 Comfort Cases with Barely Canadian hoodies directly to youth in foster care in Southern California and Southern Nevada. Rize also works with foster youth to open bank accounts, learn financial responsibility and prepare for their financial futures.
Rize also received top honors at the Transform Awards, which recognize excellence in rebranding and brand strategy. Rize received a bronze for ‘Best Use of Copy Style or Tone of Voice’ and a silver for ‘Best Visual Identity from the Financial Services Sector,’ placing just behind Bank of America in the category. The recognition underscores the impact of Rize’s 2024 rebrand and its commitment to building a purpose-driven brand that reflects its mission to empower communities.
“In 2026, our main focus remains clear: expanding access to financial education, deepening community partnerships, and creating more opportunity for people to achieve financial freedom,” Vallone said. “Through new branches, innovative programs, and mission-driven partnerships, we’re doubling down on our commitment to financial freedom to ensure we all continue to rise.”
Rize Credit Union currently partners with notable professional sports teams such as the Las Vegas Lights FC and the Los Angeles Chargers, to further cultivate community support and provide financial readiness opportunities to members. Rize also has deep-rooted partnerships with the YMCA of Los Angeles, where it supports youth with safe, inclusive spaces for learning and growth and worked on specific initiatives such as supporting southern California families affected by wildfires.
