MONTEREY COUNTY — Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC) is offering more than $1.5 million in student scholarships for 2026, with applications due next week.
More than 500 local students will be able to pursue their dreams of higher education, thanks to the generosity of local individuals, families and businesses who established over 90 scholarship funds at the CFMC.
“These dollars represent a community-wide belief that education opens doors,” said Dan Baldwin, CFMC president/CEO. “We’re proud to support students in reaching their full potential.”
Students apply for scholarships for the 2026-27 academic year through the CFMC’s online scholarship portal at cfmco.org/ScholarshipApply. One application matches students to up to 85 scholarships they may be eligible for, with separate applications available for additional scholarships.
The deadline to apply is Monday, March 16, and recipients will be announced in May.
“These scholarships help create positive change and let students know people believe in them,” said Esther Figueroa, CFMC scholarships and grants manager.
Past recipient Kayla Crocker, now program coordinator for Girls’ Health in Girls’ Hands at Boys and Girls Clubs of Monterey County, reflected, “It only takes one scholarship, like mine, to change how you view yourself and find success.”
Community members can establish their own scholarships to support a broad range of students through both general and specialized funds, creating a legacy of learning for future generations. They can also contribute to existing scholarships, such as College Futures Monterey County, which supports students from 12 local high schools with financial need and wraparound support services — 95% of recipients are the first in their families to attend college.
In South Monterey County, participating high schools include King City, Greenfield, Soledad and Gonzales. Other participants are Alisal, Everett Alvarez, Marina, North Monterey County, North Salinas, Rancho San Juan, Salinas and Seaside high schools.
Community Foundation for Monterey County’s mission is “to inspire philanthropy and be a catalyst for strengthening communities throughout Monterey County.” Thanks to those who have partnered with it to create charitable funds, the CFMC has granted more than $400 million to nonprofits working toward healthy, safe and vibrant communities since 1984.
To learn more or explore other giving opportunities, visit cfmco.org/scholarships or call 831-375-9712.
