TruMark Financial Opens Applications for 2026 Difference Makers Scholarship

TruMark Financial Credit Union has announced the opening of applications for its third annual Difference Makers Scholarship, aimed at high school seniors who are actively contributing to their communities through nonprofit work. The scholarship not only provides financial support to students but also benefits the nonprofits they partner with, enhancing their shared impact.

For 2026, TruMark Financial will award a total of ten scholarships. The top three recipients will receive $7,500 for first place, $4,000 for second, and $3,000 for third. Additionally, students who place fourth through tenth will each receive $350. Each finalist’s associated nonprofit organization will also receive a $350 donation.

Eligibility and Application Process

To qualify for the 2026 Difference Makers Scholarship, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Be a high school senior intending to enroll in a college, university, trade school, or certificate program.
• Have completed a volunteer project through a nonprofit organization or one they initiated.
• Secure a sponsoring teacher who will support their application.
• Reside in one of the five counties of Southeastern Pennsylvania: Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, or Philadelphia.
• Complete financial education video modules available on the TruMark website, provided by Greenlight.

While membership in TruMark Financial is not required at the time of application, scholarship recipients must become members prior to receiving their awards.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the impact and reach of their projects, verified volunteer hours, scalability, storytelling ability, and the completion of the required financial education components. A personal essay is also a prerequisite.

The deadline for applications is April 30, 2026. Interested students can find more information and submit their applications at www.trumarkonline.org/difference-makers-scholarship.

Previous Winners and Their Impact

Last year’s recipients showcased the intersection of personal inspiration, innovation, and volunteerism to tackle pressing community issues. Notably, all top scholarships in 2025 were awarded to students from Bucks County.

The first place winner, Jyotirmai Kadiyala from the Pennsbury School District’s STEM Academy, developed a therapeutic silicone hand model called “Pat on the Back,” aimed at providing comfort during depressive episodes. Second place went to Devlyn Faber of Central Bucks School District, who transformed a middle school fundraiser into an ongoing commitment to the For the Love of Grace Foundation, organizing events to support children battling pediatric cancer. The third place winner, Cole Marozsan from Neshaminy High School, supported families dealing with cancer through initiatives with The Breathing Room Foundation.

Founded in 1939, TruMark Financial Credit Union is headquartered in Upper Dublin Township, Montgomery County, and serves over 145,000 members in Southeastern Pennsylvania, operating 24 branches across Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties.