Frequently Asked Questions
Does the public vote determine the winners?
Public voting accounts for a portion of each finalist’s overall score, but it is not the sole deciding factor. The remaining score is determined by the selection committee using established judging criteria.
What happens if our organization is selected as a finalist?
Finalists will advance to the public voting phase and may be asked to participate in interviews, site visits, video production, photography sessions, or other promotional activities coordinated by 3Rivers.
Participation in required finalist activities is an important part of the program. An organization’s eligibility may be affected if it is unable to participate.
Does our organization need to be a 3Rivers member?
No. A 3Rivers membership is not required to apply, and membership status will not influence how an application is evaluated.
Who is eligible to apply for the Big Give?
To be considered, an organization must:
- Be recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3).
- Have operated continuously for at least two years.
- Be in good standing with the IRS and applicable regulatory agencies.
- Primarily serve communities within a designated 3Rivers service area.
- Submit a complete application and all requested documentation.
- Agree to follow the program requirements and Official Rules.
What organizations are NOT funded?
We do not fund the following: General Operations, Capital Campaigns, Event Sponsorships, Political Campaigns, and Religious Organizations (with exceptions). Grant request should be for a specific program with qualitative and quantitative results.
Can organizations share grant award news publicly?
Yes! We encourage sharing via social media channels and tagging 3Rivers.
Does the Foundation fund religious organizations?
The 3Rivers Foundation may support programs offered by religious organizations when those programs are open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation. To be eligible for funding, charitable services must remain separate from religious instruction or worship, and participation in prayer, worship, or statements of belief cannot be required.
How do I submit my art piece?
You will take high quality photos to attach to your application. If you win, you will be required to drop off your art piece or mail it in to us. Wait until notified to do so. Be sure to take photos during the creation process! We want before, during, and after photos OR a timelapse video of it being made.
What kind of art piece can I submit?
We are accepting hand painted or drawn art pieces relating to a specific prompt. There are no requirements or limitations for what materials can be used. No digital entries will be accepted.
Do you want to schedule your financial aid review with our Youth & College Team?
Reach out to our Youth & College team at 260.399.8265 or college@trfcu.org.
Can I enter the scholarship contest more than once?
You may only enter once, but you can earn a bonus entry by scheduling a free 30-minutefinancial aid review with our Youth & College Team before June 1.
When is the deadline to enter the scholarship contest?
The deadline to enter is Monday, June 1, 2026 at 12:00 PM EST. We don’t accept late entries, so be sure to get yours in as soon as possible.
Do I have to be a 3Rivers member to enter the scholarship contest?
Yes. You must be a 3Rivers member to enter the scholarship contest.
Can I use a Remodel Loan for cosmetic updates?
Cosmetic projects alone (like paint or flooring) typically don’t qualify unless they’re part of a larger renovation that significantly improves the home.
When are property taxes due?
| STATE | MONTH DUE |
| Indiana | May & November |
| Florida | November |
| Michigan | July & December |
| Ohio | February & July |
What should I know about switching homeowners insurance providers?
Switching homeowners insurance providers can be easy! Simply provide your new homeowners insurance provider with our Mortgagee Clause (provided below) so 3Rivers is listed as lienholder.
If you have elected to escrow your homeowners insurance premium annually, the new provider will bill us, at which time your premium will be paid from your escrow account.
If you have had previous coverage through another provider, please remember that it is your responsibility to ensure the prior policy is canceled. Once it's canceled, you'll more than likely receive a refund check from the previous company. Once you receive any refund check, please deposit it to your escrow account at your nearest 3Rivers branch to avoid future shortages in the escrow account.
3Rivers' Mortgagee Clause:
3Rivers FCU ISAOA
PO BOX 11267
Fort Wayne, IN 46856
Why did I receive a tax bill?
Each year, counties send out tax bills to all homeowners. If you escrow, you can disregard the bill and keep this for your records. If you do not escrow, you will need to mail the form in with your payment.
When can I drop my Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) ?
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is a requirement for borrowers who do not put at least 20% (LTV) of their property's value down at the time of closing. Until the loan balance is at or below 80% of the property value(LTV), PMI will continue to be a part of your monthly payment.
Why did my payment change?
Unless you have an Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) product, only escrowing borrowers will see payment changes. Payments can change for escrowing members because of fluctuating tax and/or insurance bills. Depending on which cycle you are in, we perform an escrow account checkup called an "escrow analysis." Escrow analysis calculates current escrow balances and factors in anticipated payments for the coming year. These projected payments are based on the most current information that has been provided to us from the county and a member's insurance company. Payment changes stemming from an escrow analysis will go into effect 45 days afterward.
What vehicles are eligible?
Most new and used vehicles purchased through participating dealerships qualify. Terms may vary based on the vehicle and your application.