For San Diego County high school seniors gearing up for college, scholarship support can be a real game-changer. That’s why Wheelhouse Credit Union is proud to offer its annual Sustainability and Badge of Honor College Scholarships, providing $1,000 awards to help students pursue their academic dreams.
Designed to support local students with big goals, these scholarships reflect Wheelhouse’s ongoing commitment to education, community, and opportunity. Whether you’re a student planning your future or someone who knows a college-bound senior, this is a chance to make higher education a little more accessible.
Apply today or share this opportunity with someone who could benefit.
Scholarships that Celebrate Purpose and Community
Since its launch in 2005, Wheelhouse’s scholarship programs have aimed to support students who demonstrate leadership, purpose, and a desire to make a positive impact. Today, the Sustainability and Badge of Honor Scholarships together represent a commitment to both environmental stewardship and recognizing the sacrifices of first-responder families.
While the Sustainability Scholarship focuses on students passionate about environmental initiatives, the Badge of Honor Scholarship honors children or grandchildren of active first responders, including law enforcement, fire protection service, healthcare professionals, and EMTs, who serve San Diego County.
Each selected recipient will receive $1,000 to put toward tuition, books, housing, or other education-related expenses, helping ease the financial burden that often accompanies the transition to college.
Who’s Eligible (and How to Apply)
Both scholarship programs are open to graduating San Diego County high school seniors who plan to attend an accredited college or university full-time beginning in Fall 2026. For the Badge of Honor Scholarship specifically, applicants must have a parent, grandparent, or legal guardian currently working in one of the qualifying first-responder fields in the county.
To apply, students complete a short application and submit a brief essay describing their academic and career aspirations, an opportunity to tell their story and stand out for their goals, achievements, and community engagement.
Important: All applications are due by April 30, 2026, at 11:59:59 PM PDT. Be sure to submit early so your application is considered. Submit your application here.

Why It Matters
Scholarships like Wheelhouse’s do more than ease the financial burden of college; they validate students’ hard work and signal community support at a pivotal moment in their lives. For first-responder families whose daily sacrifices keep San Diego safe, the Badge of Honor Scholarships are a meaningful way to honor that legacy while empowering the next generation to excel.
Likewise, the Sustainability Scholarships encourage young leaders who are committed to environmental stewardship and community betterment, making them a fitting complement to Wheelhouse’s broader mission to support both people and the planet.
Share the Opportunity
Know a deserving student? Don’t let them miss out. Share this article with classmates, friends, or family members who meet the eligibility criteria, and help amplify an opportunity that could shape someone’s future.
By linking compassion with education and community service, Wheelhouse is helping to build a brighter, more inclusive future, one scholarship at a time.
Applications are due April 30, 2026, at 11:59:59 PM PDT.