Building Pathways Through Partnership: Earn to Learn and Desert Financial Credit Union
At Earn to Learn, we believe that strong partnerships between industry and education are the key to creating brighter futures for students. This summer, Desert Financial Credit Union (DFCU) demonstrated just how impactful corporate collaborations can be by engaging with Earn to Learn in a series of events that not only supported students but also created meaningful opportunities for career exploration.
On August 12, our Senior Director of Programs and Engagement, Courtney Fauss, hosted a presentation with DFCU’s leadership to share the story of our program and highlight the success we’ve achieved over the years. The presentation underscored how Earn to Learn’s matched-savings scholarship model, combined with success coaching, mentoring, and financial wellness, empowers students to complete college and step confidently into the workforce. For DFCU, it was a chance to see firsthand how corporate investment in students benefits Arizona’s economic future.
But the commitment did not stop there. DFCU put their community values into action by purchasing high-demand school supplies and personal care items, then organizing a team of volunteers to assemble twenty-five goodie bags for students. These bags, distributed at DFCU’s Northern Arizona University (NAU) union branch, provided tangible relief for students who are working hard to balance academics, jobs, and financial responsibilities. For students, it was more than just receiving supplies; it was a reminder that community leaders believe in them and are invested in their success.
The collaboration expanded even further on September 11, when Earn to Learn’s Adam Begody and Courtney Fauss hosted a workforce panel on jobs in financial services with DFCU. Three DFCU professionals, Miles, Eric, and Jason, shared their career journeys, describing how diverse backgrounds, persistence, and a focus on people skills led them to rewarding careers in banking. They also discussed the challenges and opportunities of working in financial services, emphasizing personal fulfillment, adaptability, and the importance of mentorship.
The panel served as an inspiring example of how industry can open doors for students by demystifying career pathways and offering a candid look at both the rewards and realities of the field. Students walked away not only with valuable advice, but also with a deeper understanding of the many ways financial services professionals make a difference in their communities.
This partnership with DFCU reflects a dedication not only to students but to the broader communities they serve. Together, we combined information about Earn to Learn and its students with volunteer projects that provided direct support and a meaningful conversation about career pathways into finance. By blending community engagement with workforce exploration, DFCU helped create events that address both immediate needs and opens doors to long-term opportunities in the financial services industry.
Earn to Learn is proud to highlight this as a shining example of corporate partnership, one that can be replicated across sectors. When companies invest in students through financial support, volunteerism, and career exploration, everyone benefits. Students gain confidence and direction, businesses build strong pipelines of future talent, and communities grow more resilient.
We invite other corporate partners to follow DFCU’s lead and explore ways to engage with Earn to Learn. Together, we can provide students with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive, while ensuring Arizona’s industries have access to the skilled workforce they need to succeed. If your organization is ready to make an impact, let’s start the conversation today.