If you’re planning to attend your first year of university, college, vocational or trade school within the next year, the Affinity for Community Scholarship is for you!
Each year, we award thirty scholarships of $1,000 to individuals beginning their post-secondary education. These scholarships recognize and support students who've demonstrated a strong commitment to uplifting their community.
Here’s what you need to know
- Applications open on January 5, 2026 and close on April 15, 2026.
- To be eligible, you (or your parent/guardian) must be an Affinity Credit Union member. Not a member? Book an appointment!
- Before starting your application, be sure to review the How to Apply section below for a complete list of requirements and ensure you have all necessary supporting documents ready.
- Once you have everything you need, you can easily submit your application online!
What you’ll need to submit with your application
Step 1: Member information
To proceed with this application, you OR your legal guardian must be an Affinity member. You’ll be asked for your (or your guardian’s):
- Member number or Member Card® debit card number
- Nearest Affinity Credit Union advice centre
Step 2: Reference letter
You’ll need a reference letter ready to upload electronically, written by someone who can speak to your character and community involvement — such as an Elder, teacher, Knowledge Keeper, community leader, coach, non-profit supervisor or another trusted individual in your life. Please note: Your reference cannot be a relative. The letter should answer the following questions:
- Tell us about the applicant’s personal qualities
- Tell us about the applicant's contributions to their community or school
- Why should this applicant receive this scholarship?
You’ll also need the following information from the reference:
- Reference name
- Reference phone
- Email
- Relationship to reference
- Years known
Step 3: Short answer questions
Prepare your answers for all questions that will appear on the application. Feel free to write your answers ahead of time so all you need to do is copy and paste them into the form.
The questions will be:
- Community involvement: There are many ways in which we can contribute to our community in an impactful way (i.e. volunteer work, community support, coaching, extra-curricular activities outside of school, any leadership positions, work experience, place of worship, ceremonies, etc.). What has been your greatest contribution(s) to your community and how did it make a difference? (in 150 words or less)
- Post-secondary education: Please tell us where you’ve applied for post-secondary education (i.e. college, university, vocational, trade school, etc.)
- Future outlook: How would receiving this scholarship support your education or goals? (in 150 words or less)
- Essay: At Affinity, we believe in the importance of community! In your own words, share your personal views and ideas on what makes a community thrive? What steps are you taking to foster an affinity for your community? (in 250 words or less)
Applications open on January 5, 2026.