Valley First Credit Union proudly announces the establishment of the Wes Hall Memorial Fund, a new annual grant program honoring the remarkable life and legacy of Wes Hall, a visionary founding member and longtime Valley First Board Chair who played a pivotal role in shaping the credit union’s history and growth.

Wes Hall joined Valley First as one of its first 33 members in December 1949 and went on to serve as Board Chair for 34 years, guiding the organization from just $33,000 in assets to over $1 billion today. His leadership was instrumental in expanding services, merging Stanislaus County Federal Credit Union and Vintage Credit Union, and positioning Valley First as a cornerstone of financial service and community support across the Central Valley.

“Wes embodied the spirit of ‘People Helping People,’” said Kathryn Davis, President and CEO of Valley First Credit Union. “He was not only a leader but also a man of deep kindness, integrity, and service. Wes left a legacy that continues to inspire us every day, and we are proud to carry that forward through the Wes Hall Memorial Fund.”

Each year, the Wes Hall Memorial Fund will award three $5,000 grants across three key areas that reflect Wes’ lifelong passions and commitments:

• Veterans — As a proud WWII veteran, Wes held a deep love for his country. The fund will award $5,000 annually to a local veteran to support education, the launch or growth of a small business, or other initiatives that honor their service.
• Religious Organizations — A man of faith who often said, “I am blessed,” Wes was active in his church throughout his life. Each year, a $5,000 grant will be awarded to a church or religious-based nonprofit in the community to further their work and impact.
• Community Service — Wes was a driving force behind numerous local organizations and civic efforts throughout his life. Most notable, in addition to his work at the Credit Union, was being a founding member of Retired Employees of Stanislaus County Organizations, and Stanislaus County Employees’ Retirement Association. In his honor, the fund will award $5,000 annually to a nonprofit organization making a meaningful difference in the community.

“Wes helped lay the foundation for who we are today – not just as a credit union, but as a force for good in the communities we serve,” Davis said. “This fund allows us to keep his generous spirit alive, supporting the causes he cared about most and making sure his impact continues for generations to come.”

Details on application deadlines and eligibility will be announced soon on the Valley First Credit Union website at www.valleyfirstcu.org/.