Meriwest Credit Union recently celebrated a double milestone, marking the official grand opening of its newest full-service branch in Morgan Hill alongside the announcement of a transformative inaugural year for its nonprofit arm, the Meriwest Community Foundation.
The dual achievements signal an era of growth for the credit union, which is simultaneously expanding its physical presence in the South Bay while deepening its philanthropic impact through financial literacy and educational advocacy.
Located at 1041 Cochrane Road, the new Morgan Hill branch officially opened its doors following a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on February 3, 2026. The facility offers a comprehensive suite of personal and business banking services, home and auto lending, and advanced digital tools.
“This new branch reflects our continued commitment to serving members where they live, work, worship, and build their futures,” said Lisa Pesta, CEO of Meriwest Credit Union. “We look forward to deepening our involvement and contributing to the incredible evolution that is happening in this area.”
To support the local economy, Meriwest prioritized local partners throughout the project. “We’re not just building branches—we’re building long-term relationships,” added Chad Maze, EVP and Chief Operating Officer. “From construction partners to the team who will welcome our members, we hired locally to ensure this new branch reflects our dedication to this community.”
While the credit union expands its physical footprint, the Meriwest Community Foundation is celebrating the results of its first full year of operation in 2025. Established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Foundation has quickly become a pillar of support for underserved youth and first-generation college students.
In its inaugural year, the Foundation:
The Foundation’s work has not gone unnoticed. It was recently named a Financial Resiliency Champion by the PARTI Program, an honor presented by Executive Director Winston Ashby and former San Francisco 49er Patrick Willis. Additional accolades have followed from San Jose State, Mission College, and DeAnza College for the Foundation’s award-winning financial education series.
The spirit of community extends to the Meriwest staff, who achieved 100-percent participation in volunteerism or donations for the eighth consecutive year. In 2025, employees donated over $47,836 to local charities, while corporate contributions totaled $187,275.
These efforts supported vital initiatives including Sacred Heart’s backpack drive, Breast Cancer and Alzheimer’s walks, and the YWCA’s Inspire Luncheon.
“In our Foundation’s first year, we moved from idea to impact,” said Chad Maze, who also serves as the foundation board chair. “Our commitment to providing financial advice and education is opening new doors across the Bay Area.”
Looking ahead to 2026, the Foundation aims to expand its donor network and fundraising efforts. “Our focus remains on building equitable, resilient communities through education and empowerment,” said Helen Grays-Jones, executive director of the foundation. “We are grateful for our partners and look forward to an even greater impact ahead.”
