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Grant funding goes to Oakdale Rescue Mission
ORM 5-20
Oakdale Rescue Mission Chief Executive Officer Jonyce O’Neill, front left, was on hand recently to accept a $5,000 Wes Hall Memorial Fund grant award. It was presented by officials with Valley First Credit Union at their annual meeting, in support of the Mission’s ongoing programs and services. Photo Contributed

Valley First Credit Union recently awarded three $5,000 grants through the Wes Hall Memorial Grant Fund during its annual meeting, continuing the legacy of longtime Board Chair and Chair Emeritus Wes Hall. Established in his honor, the fund supports organizations that strengthen communities through compassion, service, and meaningful impact.

The most recent Wes Hall Memorial Grant Fund recipients are First Congregational Church of Fresno, Modesto Band of Stanislaus County, and Oakdale Rescue Mission. Each organization received a $5,000 grant in recognition of its commitment to supporting local needs and enriching the communities Valley First serves.

“Wes Hall believed deeply in caring for people and investing in the well-being of our communities,” said Kathryn J. Davis, President and CEO of Valley First Credit Union. “These grants honor his legacy by supporting organizations that lead with purpose, serve with compassion, and make a lasting difference close to home.”

Memorial Grant Fund Recipients:

Oakdale Rescue Mission

Oakdale Rescue Mission received a $5,000 grant to support its essential services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The funding will help replace critical kitchen equipment, ensuring safe and dignified care for those who rely on the Mission each day.

Modesto Band of Stanislaus County (MoBand)

MoBand was awarded a $5,000 grant in recognition of its enduring contribution to local arts and culture. The funding will support the organization’s 2026 season, helping provide high-quality, accessible music experiences for audiences across Stanislaus County.

First Congregational Church of Fresno

First Congregational Church of Fresno received a $5,000 grant to support The Pantry, its food bank ministry serving more than 1,000 local households. The funding will help expand access to food and strengthen partnerships that address growing food insecurity in the community.

Wes Hall’s impact on Valley First Credit Union spanned decades of service and leadership. Known for his compassion, integrity, and deep commitment to community, his values continue to guide Valley First’s mission and philanthropic efforts.

“The Wes Hall Memorial Grant Fund reflects the values Wes championed throughout his life,” added Davis. “By supporting organizations that care for people, uplift communities, and bring people together, we ensure his legacy lives on in meaningful and lasting ways.”

To learn more about the Wes Hall Memorial Grant Fund, eligibility requirements, and future grant opportunities, visit https://www.valleyfirstcu.org/wes-hall-memorial-fund

Valley First Credit Union is a $1.1 billion, member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative providing quality financial services to 80,000 members in the growing and diverse communities of Calaveras, Fresno, Kings, Kern, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Sacramento, Tulare, and Tuolumne counties. With eight branches throughout the Central Valley, the credit union is committed to banking with a purpose – to better the financial lives of the people and businesses in the communities they call home.