Showing posts with label credit union articles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label credit union articles. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 7, 2021

How Charity Helps Your Credit Union

How Charity Helps Your Credit Union

There is no question that donating and being active in the community helps brand awareness and image. In the case of credit unions, it goes deeper than that since institutions are heavily centered on members. This is why it is important to maintain a positive presence in the community. Considering a majority of your members make up that population and have come to expect nothing but the best. There are articles helping spread the word on how charities help your credit union and it makes great press!

Being active with your community and your members takes on many different forms. We see credit unions do anything from present checks to organizations, sponsor events, have fundraisers, and even donate to their members directly through contests and giveaways. Simply being aware of community events and causes is a great way to start planning a charity campaign. Take notice of the types of activities your members are involved with and develop ways to cater to them. There is no shortage of ways to show you care about your community and it is all up to your institution to find a way to do so.

With that being said, your efforts do not go unnoticed. Your members appreciate being taken care of and your community will see the benefits of your support. After all, the whole point of doing charitable work is to create a better environment and to help people. Show them what the credit union difference is, and remind them of why they chose to bank with a credit union in the first place. Also, when you create a positive image for your credit union it opens the door for other opportunities. Not only do you get the satisfaction of doing something positive, but you also get the added benefit of people wanting to share your kind actions. This can develop into a great marketing strategy for social media platforms and other outlets.

Even Credit Union Vendors Participate

At Oak Tree, we encourage your credit union to give back as much as they can to help maintain a positive image and to keep members happy. We love to see the awesome things going on in the credit union community every day and are always looking for a feel-good story. We love acts of charity so much that we write about them in our weekly Humanitarian Highlight blogs on our website. Check them out to see all of the great things happening in the credit union world, and hopefully, we can feature you next!

Speaking of charity and the credit union community, we also wanted to remind you how this weekend begins the SacTown Virtual Run for 2021, a great cause to help the Children’s Miracle Network of Hospitals.

If you have questions about any of our products, feel free to send us a message at ClientServices@oaktreebiz.com.

Thursday, March 18, 2021

March For A Cause

Humanitarian Highlight 3.18.21

Happy Thursday #CUfamily! We are back with another #HumanitarianHighlight! This week, we have brought you credit unions from all over who are constantly March For A Cause and do what they can to help their communities year-round. 🏃

Here at Oak Tree, we like to take this day weekly, to say thank you to all the #creditunions out there making a #CUdifference in their communities! 😊

Peach State Federal Credit Union

Peach State FCU hosts a quarterly food bank donation drive, members and staff are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items. These donations are given to a food bank or pantry in the credit union’s local area. This quarter, Peach State FCU made a contribution to Area Churches Together Serving in Bogart, Georgia.

Neighborhood Credit Union

With the help and rallying of the community and Neighborhood Credit Union’s members, they were able to donate $33,365 to the North Texas Food Bank. These donations will be used to serve those who face food insecurity due to the pandemic. Matching dollar for dollar, up to $25,000, and over 100 donors, the credit union’s donation supplied over 100,000 meals to those in need.

Mountain America Federal Credit Union

Mountain America Federal Credit Union committed to donating $50 to a local charity for every successful 3-point shot made by Idaho State University, Boise State University, and Brigham Young University during the 2020-2021 men’s college basketball season. During this season, a total of $29,500 was donated to Operation Warm, St. Luke’s Health Foundation, and the American Red Cross.

Canopy Credit Union

Wanting to continue supporting their community, Canopy CU worked with Northeast Community Center to help a local non-profit, The ZoNE. They came together and delivered boxes of food to families who are struggling due to lack of transportation, lack of funds, disabled, having to quarantine due to COVID, and so on.

RTN Federal Credit Union

The RTN Federal Credit Union Employees Community Outreach Committee supplied dinned for the men and women at the Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen located in WALTHAM. Following COVID guidelines and restrictions, RTN employees delivered 3-foot-long submarine sandwiches, Delmonico potatoes, as well as, a sweet treat for dessert. These donations were then packaged to go by Bristol Lodge staff for individuals in need to pick up.

PSE Credit Union

In celebration of Penn States Children’s Hospital, PSECU, Pennsylvania’s anytime, anywhere digital credit union, has committed $10,000 to Children’s Miracle Network. This donation will be used to purchase equipment that brings comfort to babies in the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. This gift provided 40 mamaRoo baby swings for the highest-level NICU in Central Pennsylvania. These baby seats stimulate a natural rocking motion to help soothe babies and promote development.

Firefighters & Company Federal Credit Union

For the sixth year in a row, Firefights & Company Credit Union is donating carbon monoxide detectors to local fire departments. A total of 550 detectors will be donated to departments in Montgomery, Miami, and Greene counties. The credit union has been able to donate over 2,600 detectors since they started this initiative years ago.

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

On a final note, we have started a new feature, the Credit Union Roundup, and we hope you return tomorrow to see what is going on in the Credit Union community. Are you ready to March For A Cause?

Thursday, March 11, 2021

Making a Difference the Credit Union Way

Humanitarian Highlight 3.11.21

Credit unions are the heart of our #HumanitarianHighlights because making a difference in their communities is what #CUs are built on. 🏘️ Here’s to making a difference, the credit union way.

Oak Tree loves showcasing all the amazing work done by the #CUindustry and recognizing all of the credit unions that go above and beyond to make a #CUdifference. 🤗

First Community Credit Union

First Community CU hosted a blood drive in support of the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. Their employees and members of the local community banded together and donated much-needed blood. With the recent storms striking their area, many units of blood were lost, so the credit union knew they had to act fast and give back in any way they could.

GECU

GECU teamed up with the Official El Paso Independent School District and are helping individuals file their taxes, free of charge. You can drop off your tax files with one of their certified, bilingual volunteers at any of their available locations. With all the uncertainty in the world right now, there is one thing we know to be true: taxes have to get done!

Linn Area Credit Union

Honoring Random Acts of Kindness Day, Linn Area CU’s Blairs Ferry Road team collected new hats, socks, and gloves, along with gently used coats. The team then donated these items to three different non-profits in need, located in their community.

Southland Credit Union

Southland CU has gifted more than $100,000 in computer workstations to the City of Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine. This gift will be used in support of its youth and senior recreation programs. These workstations include more than 200 monitors, keyboards, hard drives, and Window 10 software licenses. The stations will be available to registered youth and seniors of the City after school teen and senior programs.

Suncoast Credit Union

Recognizing that the arts create and add dimension to individuals’ lives and provide creative outlets for many, the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation has made a $5,000 contribution to the Van Wezel Foundation in support of their Artworks Anywhere Program. This program launched in the middle of the pandemic, to ensure arts education remained accessible to the Sarasota community and beyond.

TTCU Federal Credit Union

Wanting to honor the credit union philosophy “people helping people,” TTCU FCU provided meals to city employees who continue to work tirelessly through the winter storms that have aggressively affected certain areas. TTCU FCU also went around to local grocery stores and surprised unsuspecting shoppers with gift cards, to help purchase their groceries.

MSU Federal Credit Union

MSU FCU hosted their Annual Gala virtually this year, but that didn’t stop the CU from making an amazing contribution to their community. During the Gala, employees could make a donation to the Lansing Food Bank with MSUFCU matching donations up to $5,000. At the start of the Gala, close to $2,500 had already been donated, and the goal of $10,000 was surpassed in less than one hour. A total of $11,065 was donated to the Lansing Food Bank, which will provide 36,735 meals to those in need.

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

Thursday, March 4, 2021

On a Mission to Make a Difference

Humanitarian Highlight 3.4.2021

Welcome to this week’s #HumanitarianHighlight where you’ll get a first-hand look at #creditunions from all over making it their mission to make a difference in their communities. 🧡
Here at Oak Tree, we are so grateful to be apart of this #CUfamily, and we will continue doing our part to give back, and showcase others who embody what it means to truly make a #CUdifference!

American First Credit Union

The charitable arm of American First CU is giving away 10 scholarships, each worth $1,000. The credit union is looking for candidates who embody the people-helping-people motto, and who play an active role in their local communities. To be eligible, members must be graduating high school seniors or undergrad students currently enrolled in a two-year, four-year, or technical college, and who most importantly, have a passion for serving others.

Connexus Credit Union

Connexus CU has generously pledged $1,000,000 to Habitat for Humanity Saskatchewan, which will help support the building of 80 homes across the province and will help families achieve their basic human needs. Connexus CU is also taking the initiative and working with Habitat for Humanity to create a provincial youth work experience program. This program will give 220 students each year the chance to gain trade skills, and Connexus CU will provide them with financial literary sessions.

Mission Fed Credit Union

During a month-long fundraiser, Mission Fed CU raised a grand total of $215,000. These proceeds will be used to benefit three of the credit union’s community partners: The Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, San Diego Rescue Mission, and The Salvation Army of San Diego County.

TLC Community Credit Union

TLC Community CU gifted $25,000 to the Lenawee Community Foundation and Kiwanis Regional Trail Authority. This donation will go toward assisting in the Kiwanis Trail connection and expansion between Adrian and Tecumseh. The extension of the Kiwanis Trail will bring the trail into the city of Tecumseh and is planned for later this summer. 

Together Credit Union

Together Foundation has donated essential technology and educational supplies to two St. Louis metro area schools. This donation will aid teachers and students as they try to navigate the challenges of virtual learning during the pandemic. Ensuring students continue on a bright path and easing the burden placed on teachers to quickly adapt is the main goal for this credit union.

Tower Federal Credit Union

Tower FCU just announced their new philanthropic endeavor, Pennies for Change. Over the course of the year 2021, Tower will donate up to $250,000 to the TowerCares Foundation through the Pennies for Change program. The newly implemented Pennies for Change program will work by members simply swiping their debit or credit card, in-store and online. For every use, Tower will donate one cent to the foundation, and they fully expect to hit their goal.

Truliant Federal Credit Union

Truliant FCU held its annual Financial Education Grants for public schools, and this year 11 of the 38 applicants in Truliant’s member-owned communities were selected. They are receiving grants for individual programs aimed at improving financial literacy. The credit union is gifting more than $40,000 to this year’s winners. The fund is intended to strengthen financial literacy in grades k-6 by gifting funds in financial-education grants to public school teachers, so they can implement financial education into their curriculum.

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

Thursday, February 25, 2021

Championing Around Our Communities

Humanitarian Highlight 2.25.21

It’s the day of the week you’ve all been waiting for (Thursday, which means it’s almost Friday) but also, it’s time for our #HumanitarianHighlight! 😄 We gathered credit unions from all over championing around their communities to make them a better place!🏆🏡 

Press play to see their amazing work! 

If you know of a #creditunion who has positively impacted their community, tag us and let us know so we can ensure they get recognized!

American Eagle Financial Credit Union

Volunteers from AEFCU and Journey Home generously filled a truck with over 40 pieces of gently used furniture, including office furnishings from the CU’s former branch, which will be used to furnish Journey Home’s admin offices. Journey Home is a non-profit whose mission is to support local people transitioning out of homelessness.

First Heritage Federal Credit Union

First Heritage FCU wanted to honor one of its board members, Mary Ann Thomas, for her contributions to the credit union over the last 40 years. The CU made a $4,000 donation to a local charity of her choice, which she chose to divide between two organizations that are close to her heart: the Southeast Steuben County Library and the Corning Food Pantry.

Foothill Credit Union

Foothill CU generously donated over 2,000 notepads to Arcadia Unified School District. These notepads were donated in support of their upcoming Middle School Wellness Conference that they are holding for their students.

Mutual Security Credit Union

As part of Mutual Security’s commitment to better their local community, they made a donation of $1,000 to Alliance for Community Empowerment, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Alliance’s mission is to improve the quality of life for economically disadvantaged individuals in the Bridgeport area by providing the necessary resources to improve education, housing, health, and welfare programs.

University of Hawaii Federal Credit Union

Throughout this pandemic, UHFCU has partnered with Aloha United Way to offer support to thousands of local families in their community affected by the COVID crisis. UHFCU helped raise the donated funds by creating custom face masks with inspirational sayings on them and selling them to those interested. Over 3,500 masks were sold, and the proceeds from the masks as well as generous contributions from UHFCU members resulted in a total of $19,000, which helped over 1,200 individuals and families.

Desert Financial Credit Union

Desert Financial CU challenged its community and members to raise funds to benefit 1 Darn Cool School located within Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The credit union matched the first $20,000 in donations, and they raised $5,000 over their goal. With Desert CU’s match, they were able to gift the Children’s Hospital nearly $46,000 to help children undergoing treatment to continue their education.

Pelican State Credit Union

Pelican State CU chose The Family Village, as their charity of the year. The credit union has hosted several fundraising events for the cause, and with the help of the Beak Squad, Pelican’s volunteer fundraising committee, they were able to raise a total of $4,258.37. The donation will go toward items to help local children who have been separated from their homes by a traumatic event.

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

Thursday, February 18, 2021

Turning Compassion Into Action

Humanitarian Highlight 2.18.21

We are so happy to have you here for this week’s Humanitarian Highlight! If you are new around here, we gather the good deeds #CreditUnions are doing all over, and showcase them in one place! 🤗🎈 Let’s look at how Credit Unions are turning compassion into action.

So let’s get started with this Thursday’s #HumanitarianHighlight, just press play!

If you know a credit union that has gone above and beyond in making a #CUdifference, use our hashtag #HumanitarianHighlight to let us know about it, so we can give them a shout-out! 🗣️

Patelco Credit Union

Patelco has always prioritized supporting those who face food insecurity, especially during the current global crisis. Food banks have had triple (or even more) requests for food. Particularly critical, is the need to feed children who normally get their meals at school. For every $1 donated, a food bank can secure up to $7 worth of food. Patelco has generously donated $130,000 to partner food banks in their local community.

SeaComm Federal Credit Union

SeaComm FCU recently committed to an amazing $150,000 worth of donations between 6 regional hospital foundations across northern NY and VT. The donated funds will help to purchase essential medical supplies and needed aid to frontline healthcare workers.

TruWest Credit Union

TruWest gifted $10,478 to Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin, TX. They were able to reach this generous amount through a fundraising 50/50 raffle, which included over 195 participants who made donations, as well as TruWest’s annual “Casual for a Cause” staff donation initiatives which are held throughout the year.

Polish & Slavic Federal Credit Union

For the seventh straight year, PSFCU, the nation’s largest ethnic credit union, donated more than $100,000 to organizations and foundations committed to assisting sick, terminally ill, and disadvantaged children. Since debuting its holiday donation drive in 2014, PSFCU has collected more than $834,000, all of which have benefited a total of 16 children’s hospices.

Connex Credit Union

Connex Credit Union partnered with Christian Community Action to collect money and basic household items for homeless families moving into recently renovated apartments at the Hillside Family Shelter in New Haven. Connex CU staff and members were able to contribute $1,500 and more than 240 household items and toys for these families in need.

Oklahoma Central Credit Union

With Oklahoma Central’s Refer-A-Friend program, they were able to donate $575 to Domestic Violence Intervention Services (DVIS). DVIS provides comprehensive intervention and prevention services to men, women, and children affected by domestic and sexual violence.

“The DVIS mission is to rebuild lives affected by domestic violence and sexual assault through advocacy, shelter, counseling, and education.” Domestic Violence Intervention Services, Inc.

American 1 Credit Union

American 1 CU surprised two of their members by paying off the remaining balance on their auto loans. This generosity came as part of their Great Loan Payoff promotion. Members earn drawing entries, and American 1 CU pays their loans up to $15,000. Though the promotion stated there would only be one winner, the credit union paid the remaining balance for two of its members, wanting to increase their efforts of giving back to their long-standing members.

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Building Up Our Communities

https://youtu.be/AdVIrTYF3sk

Humanitarian Highlight 2.11.21

It’s #Humanitarianhighlight day and Oak Tree is so excited to present these amazing #CreditUnions who have all gone above and beyond to make a #CUdifference in building up our communities.

Helping build up our local communities is what the #CUindustry is all about, and these highlighted #CUs are nothing short of amazing! If you know of a #creditunion who has positively impacted their community, tag us and let us know so we can ensure they get recognized!

Wolverine State Credit Union

Wolverine State CU partnered with AmericInn Lodge & Suites of Oscoda, and they generously put together hygiene packs to donate through a Grocery Giveaway. With their care packages, they were able to help over 200 families in their local community who were in need of these basic items.

Parkview Community Federal Credit Union

Parkview Community FCU, with the help of its members, staff, and community, was able to raise $2,092.89 to benefit The McKeesport Agape Center. Their donation goes toward getting packages of food delivered to individuals and families who are in need and without the necessary transportation or are homebound due to medical reasons.

Fergus Federal Credit Union

Wanting to give back to frontline workers, Fergus FCU donated $3,000 to the Hometown Heroes Organization. This donation will help support the delivery of lunches and much-needed coffee to the staff at hospitals and schools in Lewistown, Montana. This generosity was extended in an effort to boost the spirits of frontline workers who have been our backbone during this pandemic.

GCS Credit Union

GCS Credit Union kicked off their 2021 Growing Community Schools jeans program by donating $1,245 to the Triad National Honor Society. The Growing Community Schools program is funded by GCS CU employees who make monthly, monetary donations from their personal funds to a local school organization. Triad NHS was the selected organization for the month of January.

Traid NHS is a service organization that sponsors a number of events to support the school, community charities, and larger charity organizations.

Telcoe Federal Credit Union

Telcoe FCU was honored to provide lunch for staff members at Arkansas Children’s Hospital who continue to work around the clock administering COVID vaccinations at the hospital. Telcoe FCU is proud to contribute to those on the frontlines while they are doing what it takes to provide exceptional healthcare to children all across the state.

Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union

Jeanne D’Arc CU presented a gift of $1,500 to the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center (GLFHC), from Jeanne D’Arc’s, We Share a Common Thread Foundation’s quarterly Give-a-Click program put on by the CU.

“The GLFHC is focused on improving the health of people and their families in the Merrimack Valley area of Massachusetts, and the gifted funds will be used to help renovate and expand its Lawrence, Mass., clinic, which is it’s largest and will account for 33% of annual patient visits.”

Carolinas Telco Federal Credit Union

During the holiday season, Carolinas Telco FCU offered a loan program that benefited the borrower, while also supporting local humane societies. Carolinas Telco FCU donated $5 for every loan originated and they were able to gift $1,700 to benefit a total of five humane societies in North and South Carolina.

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598. Continue to work on building up our communities!

Wednesday, February 3, 2021

Credit Unions Climbing Mountains

https://youtu.be/sU0xek6i1Hw

Humanitarian Highlight: 2.4.21

Welcome to this week’s Humanitarian Highlight #CUfamily! We have complied a list of Credit Unions Climbing Mountains to help their communities. ⛰️🤝 Oak Tree is forever grateful to be part of making an impact on the #CUway. If you know a credit union that has gone above and beyond in making a #CUdifference, use our hashtag #HumanitarianHighlight to let us know about it, so we can give them a shout-out! 🗣️

Buckeye State Credit Union

Giving back to one of their community partners, the YWCA of Alliance, Buckeye State CU donated a check of $7,500. The donation will go toward supporting their food pantry, homeless initiative, women’s transitional housing, and providing gifts for children of families in need.

Frankenmuth Credit Union

While Frankenmuth CU was closed in honor of MLK day, staff members chose to give back and volunteered at local soup kitchens in the area. The volunteers helped to prepare and serve food, as well as taking care of whatever else needed to be done.

NET Credit Union

Due to the pandemic, NET Credit Union held their 7th Annual Netoberfest Golf Tournament virtually, and all funds raised were donated to the students and staff of The DePaul School. NET CU and Allied Services, which is a NET CU Preferred Partner Group, came up with an amazing $20,000 in donations.

The DePaul School’s mission is to teach students with dyslexia and other related learning disabilities how to learn. Their dedicated staff and specially trained faculty offer a well-structured system of programs aimed at maximizing abilities and compensating for disabilities.

Thrive Credit Union

At Thrive Credit Union, for every member who opened a new checking account in November and December, Thrive CU would donate $25 to the Boys and Girls Club of Muncie. Wanting to take it a step further, Thrive presented a check in the amount of $2,600 to the Boys and Girls Club of Muncie and showed their longstanding support for the organization.

Numerica Credit Union

After generously donating $100,000 to help families and individuals transfer from shelters into stable homes, Numerica CU also took it upon themselves to put together baskets full of essentials to help make the transition that much more comfortable. The items in the baskets ranged from kitchenware to laundry essentials.

Ascentra Credit Union

Given the current circumstances, food insecurity is at an all-time high. Ascentra CU and its members, through an auto loan promotion, were able to come up with $23,350 in donations to gift to River Bend Foodbank. This contribution will provide around 116,750 meals to families in the local communities that they serve.

“It’s especially important that during times like these that we focus on helping our communities. We have been a partner with the River Bend Foodbank in the past and are proud that this effort has generated such a large donation and are excited about the difference it’ll make for families experiencing food insecurity during this pandemic.” Linda Andry, Interim President and CEO of Ascentra Credit Union.

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598. Let’s hear it for all the Credit Unions Climbing Mountains!

Thursday, January 28, 2021

Soaring to New Heights

Humanitarian Highlight 1.28.21

Press play and see what our #CUfamilies have done to help their communities soar to new heights in this week’s #HumanitarianHighlight!🪁 Is your credit union soaring to new heights?

If you see a #creditunion making a difference, let Oak Tree know so we can give them the recognition they deserve!📣👏 

Chartway Federal Credit Union

Chartway’s charitable arm, We Promise Foundation, and its board of trustees has donated an outstanding $600,000 grant to ensure that children who are facing medical hardship or illness can experience the joy and hope that they deserve.

“2020 was certainly a year like no other,” said Brian Schools, President, and CEO of Chartway FCU. “Every day brought new challenges, which is why we’re more grateful than ever for the support of our sponsors, partners, members, volunteers, and team members who helped us navigate the unprecedented global health pandemic to raise more than $600,000.”

“We are proud to partner with so many charitable organizations who seek to do good and change the world for children facing medical hardship.” Karen Lane, Executive Director of Chartway’s We Promise Foundation.

Skyward Credit Union

Skyward CU lends a helping hand to their community and gives a donation of $9,000 to Consumer Counseling Services of Kansas. This is a locally run non-profit organization, and they offer resources dedicated to providing financial stability to Kansas families in need.

Indiana Members Credit Union

IMCU generously presented a check for $1,500 to their local Cardinal Ritter High School, which participates in an ongoing school spirit debit card program. Since the beginning of the program in 2018, Cardinal Ritter High School has earned $3,000 through this IMCU giveback program. The partnership allows fans of the high school to show their school spirit and support the athletic program by signing up for a Raiders-themed debit card, and every time the card is used as a signature-based transaction, Cardinal Athletics benefits. Truly soaring to new heights!

Maui County Federal Credit Union

Wanting to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Maui County CU held a “virtual day of service” project to give back to people in their community who are struggling. The participants put together bags with needed items including personal hygiene products, and non-perishable food items. These bags were later distributed to those in need in the surrounding areas.

Kinecta Federal Credit Union

Giving back in a big way, Kinecta FCU’s 47th Annual Holiday Food Drive had major success. With the help of their employees, members, local community, sponsors, corporate donors, and individual donors, they collectively raised over $94,200 which aided more than 1,000 local families who are facing food insecurity.

Greater Texas Federal Credit Union

Greater Texas FCU matched $5,000 in donations to Austin Disaster Relief Network as part of ADRN’s Giving Tuesday campaign. Their program partners with churches and volunteers in the Greater Austin area to serve those in crisis by providing immediate monetary, housing, and counseling resources, as well as long-term repairing and rebuilding.

GreenState Credit Union

GreenState CU gifted a check of $100,000 to support a very critical fund within the UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital. The children’s hospital has a fund that has been dwindling due to the strain of COVID-19 cases. The donation is the largest gift to date from this account.

“Thank you to GreenState Credit Union for providing our patients and families with support during these difficult times, made even more challenging with the pandemic.” University of Iowa Center for Advancement President and CEO Lynette Marshall.

Thank you for tuning in to our Humanitarian Highlight! These credit unions are truly soaring to new heights. We’ll be back next week with more generous credit unions! Please check out last week’s post, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

Thursday, January 21, 2021

Helping Others Grow

Humanitarian Highlight 1.21.21

Another week, another #HumanitarianHighlight where we showcase all of the amazing efforts put forth by our #CUfamily 🌳🌻 Helping others grow is what the #CUdifference is all about, and Oak Tree is grateful to be a part of this community! If you know a credit union that has gone above and beyond in making a #CUdifference, use our hashtag #HumanitarianHighlight to let us know about it, so we can give them a shout-out! Credit unions are about helping others grow!

1st Community Credit Union

Wanting to help local organizations during these times, all three of 1st Community Credit Union’s branches came together and were able to successfully donate a total of $9,000 to organizations in their local community including the Tomah, West Salem, and Sparta regions. 

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union 

Affinity Plus FCU generously donated a $2,000 Campus Scholarship to a student in their community who is studying music education. This donation came from the Affinity Plus Foundation, where their mission is to “Engage, Educate, and Empower. Supporting students, educators, and community organizations in their pursuit to better themselves and their communities.” Affinity Plus Foundation 

Ascend Federal Credit Union 

The largest CU in Middle Tennessee, Ascend FCU, amazingly came up with a donation of $50,000 to present to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Ascend has always shown its support and admiration for the hospital, and what it stands for. 

“Ascend is committed to supporting organizations that are making a difference in the lives of people in our community and the state of Tennessee. Because of the work being done by the hospital, children receive the care they need regardless of their families ability to pay. We are honored to help fund their team’s pioneering research into finding innovative ways to cure and prevent disease.” Caren Gabriel, Ascend president and CEO 

Visions Federal Credit Union

During these cold winter months, Visions’ Apalachin and Owego offices teamed up and collected donations which included scarves, hats, gloves, and boots to keep those in need warm. They were also able to make a donation of $500 to be used for purchasing children’s coats, which would go to the students of the Apalachin-Owego School District. 

TopLine Federal Credit Union 

This year, TopLine rings in their 22nd Annual Holiday Gift Drive, and a very successful one at that! They were able to fulfill six-holiday wish lists for young families in their community, donate over 540 gifts, donate 185 handmade scarves, and came up with $660 in gift cards as well as over $600 in cash to their charitable partners. All of these amazing gifts truly made for a special holiday for families in their local communities. 

Firefly Credit Union 

During Firefly’s 4 Days of Giving, their Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council was able to donate a total of $10,000 to four deserving organizations, with each organization receiving a donation of $2,500. The organizations included were Youth Link, Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Community Bridge, and YMCA. “We are thrilled to donate to four local minority and women-sponsored organizations that make such a positive impact on our communities.” Reyna Staats, Head of the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council. 

San Diego County Credit Union 

SDCCU partnered with 103.7 KSON Radio and proudly supported St. Jude’s 33rd Annual Radiothon. Members of the credit union and the local community were encouraged to help raise awareness and contribute, if they could, to the cause. With all the support behind them and a reason to give, they were able to raise $240,582 in donations to help save children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. 

“The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of our founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion, or a family’s ability to pay.” St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 

Thank you for reading this Thursday’s Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s post, and do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Fuel the Light

Humanitarian Highlight 1.14.21: Fuel the Light

Humanitarian Highlight 1.14.21

It is time for this week’s #HumanitarianHighlight you guys! We are so excited to present to you all of these amazing #creditunions and the #CUdifference they have all made in their communities. Let’s get started, shall we?!  Also, if you know of a #creditunion who has positively impacted their community, tag us and let us know so we can ensure they get recognized! Let’s see how they fuel the light!

Volt Credit Union

Giving back to the children in their community, Volt Credit Union presented a check of $10,000 to The Child Advocacy Center, Inc. The amount was donated by Volt’s members, others in their local community, and those donations were matched by the Volt Foundation.

TruStone Financial Federal Credit Union

TruStone Financial FCU, TruStone Home Mortgage, and the TruStone Financial Foundation came together and provided close to 1,000 toys, and were able to donate $1,750 to charity just in time for the holidays. The donations that were gathered from their branches were then given to Toys for Tots, as well as The Salvation Army of Cold Spring.

“TruStone Financial established the TruStone Foundation in 2009 to reinforce its commitment to financial education. With strong ties and a healthy respect for education at all levels, the Foundation funds scholarships and financial literacy programs in the classroom and beyond. We believe by supporting our future leaders, our local communities will become stronger.” TruStone Financial Foundation

Glendale Federal Credit Union

Lending a helping hand, Glendale FCU members and their staff took it upon themselves to donate needed items such as blankets, socks, towels, and stuffed animals for the children to the Glendale Police Officers’ Association and their “Cops for Kids” program.

“The “Cops for Kids” Program targets the needs of the community’s underprivileged, disabled, hospitalized and at-risk children, as well as those who are victims of accidents and/or crimes. Every year, members of the Glendale Police Department adopt families during the holidays, providing Christmas trees, gifts, and holiday meals. The Glendale Police Officers’ Association has distributed over 20,000 toys to children throughout the community as a result of the generosity from Glendale citizens and businesses.” Glendale Police Officers’ Association

Cobalt Credit Union

Helping out our nation’s heroes, Cobalt Credit Union teamed up with the SAC Foundation and collected basic household and food items for donation to the Veterans at Victory Apartment in Omaha and Victory Park Apartment in Lincoln.

“SAC Foundation is the charitable arm of Cobalt Credit Union and a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are a separate, independent entity operated by our own Board of Directors comprised of Cobalt Credit Union employees. We have a mission to be a steward of economic and social sustainability in the communities we serve. Our ongoing partnership with Cobalt Credit Union and its employees help further our mission.” Cobalt Credit Union

Cal State L.A. Federal Credit Union

With the year 2020 throwing so many unforeseen challenges families’ ways, Cal State L.A. FCU partnered with the Para Los Niño’s Organization and participated in their Adopt-a-Family program, which helps provide gifts for families in need. Cal State L.A. FCU was able to donate a list of items ranging from household items to toys on the children’s wish lists.

“In 1980, Para Los Niños was founded with the simple idea of creating a safe space for the children of Skid Row to “just be a kid.” Building on the importance of a healthy, stable home and idea of education as an equalizer, Para Los Niños has since become a leading organization serving thousands in Los Angeles.” Para Los Niños

Fond du Lac Credit Union

During the holiday season, Fond du Lac CU hosted a canned food drive for the Solutions Center where with the help of their members, staff, and the local community they were able to donate close to 500 needed items to families in need.

“Solutions Center offers a multitude of services to those dealing with domestic abuse and homelessness. Our staff is made up of caring and dedicated professionals, on hand 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to work closely with those in crisis. Our professionals understand that every situation is different, and services are personalized to each individual that is in need of assistance.”

Honor Credit Union

The restaurant industry has been hit hard during this pandemic, and Honor Credit Union went to great lengths to support their local restaurants and small business in their community by providing much-needed relief.  The funds raised went directly to employees in the restaurant business.

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598. How has your credit union helped fuel the light?

Thursday, January 7, 2021

Let's Begin

Humanitarian Highlight 1.7.21

Happy #HumanitarianHighlight everyone! How are you all doing? In today’s blog, we highlighted a few #creditunions who have exhibited outstanding work within their communities! Well done #CUfamily! Let’s begin this praise for some great credit unions!

Suffolk Federal Credit Union

Suffolk FCU has donated $2,500 to the Community Housing Innovation’s (CHI) Homeownership Counseling & Education Program!  “The White Plains, N.Y.-based CHI offers a counseling and education program for first-time homeowners, and down payment and closing cost assistance for income-eligible households on Long Island, N.Y., as well as for those in Westchester and the Hudson Valley.” CUTimes

First Capital Federal Credit Union

Making sure everyone in their community is well taken care of, First Capital FCU donated canned food items to help support the West York Area School District Bulldog Pantry! “The Bulldog Pantry supplies needed items to families and students in the school district on the first Thursday of each month. And, Life Skills class students work at the pantry to learn valuable lessons on the value of hard work and supporting those in need.” CUTimes

Gesa Credit Union

Continuing support for their community, Gesa CU’s Turkey Trot is a SIGNATURE Tri-Cities event held every year! Due to COVID-19, the event will be going virtual this year, but don’t let that shy you away from the fun-filled community tradition! Choosing to run either the mile or the 5k, runners can participate between Monday, November 23rd, and Sunday, November 29th. “We are extremely grateful to Gesa Credit Union for their continued support and commitment to still host this virtual event despite not being able to gather in person as a community,” said Michele Roth, Executive Director for our local American Red Cross chapter. “The Turkey Trot has been a long-standing Tri-Cities tradition and although it will look different this year, it is still a great way to celebrate the holiday and support the important work of the Red Cross in our local community.” The quote is taken from NBC 23

Neighbors Federal Credit Union

For the past 12 years, Neighbors FCU has partnered up with WBRZ as a sponsor for [sic] Coats for Kids’ They accepted donations at all 10 locations throughout the Greater Baton Rouge Area! “For 32 years Pat’s Coats for Kids has provided a warm jacket to children in our community. It takes only $20 to give a kid a new coat in the proper size. During the cold months of December through April, we know that there are kids in the Baton Rouge community that do not have coats, whose parents cannot afford coats, kids that start their day at a bus stop shivering, and kids who enter a school needing time to “warm-up” to start their classes.” WBRZ 2

CLICK HERE TO DONATE!

First New York Federal Credit Union

Due to COVID-19, this year has been very hard on us all. Now with students going back to school a few times a week while other days are spent at home learning, many don’t have the supplies they need to get through the school week. Knowing this, First New York FCU donated 450 backpacks filled with supplies (1,200 pocket folders, 900 spiral notebooks, and 700 highlighters), to the Schenectady City School District!

Common Trust Federal Credit Union

Supporting their community, Common Trust FCU has once again renewed its support for nonprofit health care as a Platinum Sponsor of the Step Out for Hospice Virtual Wellness Event. “We are grateful for Common Trust’s ongoing generosity as a key sponsor of our annual benefit. All the money raised through Step Out for Hospice will help our healthcare heroes provide care, support, and comfort to people of all ages with a life-limiting illness,” said Laura Wise, Manager of Fund Development.

GAC – We all know that GAC is March 2-4, 2021, who else is excited?!

“Let’s Begin” is a way of life for credit unions. We are always looking for ways to start deeds of greatness in this community.

Since COVID-19 had shaken up our year, it is imperative that we keep our heads up and stay positive during this tough time. We hope to see you all soon! If you have any questions, call us at (949) 548-7601.

Wednesday, December 30, 2020

The Last Step

Humanitarian Highlight 12.31.2020

We’re back! Before the last step you need to take the first step.

Today is brand new #HumanitarianHighlight! We hope you all have been doing well and staying healthy! We are truly lucky and thankful to be part of such an incredible community. The #CUfamily is one of a kind who exemplifies the meaning of #CUdifference and #CUmovement. If you know of a credit union that has gone above and beyond for its community, please message us so we can give them a shout-out on all of our social media accounts!

IAA Federal Credit Union

Helping to support their community, IAA FCU partnered up with Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago to donate $7,500 to Midwest Food Bank! Outstanding job, everyone!

“As a faith-based organization, it is the mission of Midwest Food Bank to share the love of Christ by alleviating hunger and malnutrition locally and throughout the world and providing disaster relief; all without discrimination. Our vision is to provide industry-leading food relief to those in need while feeding them spiritually.

Our story starts in 2003 when the Kieser family actioned their faith to share their blessings. They turned a barn on their family farm into a distribution site for local food pantries. Soon they realized the need was greater and there was room for growth. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the valuable work of our volunteers, and most importantly, the blessings of God, Midwest Food Bank now shares the blessing worldwide. More than 4 million people were impacted in 2019. Midwest Food Bank currently distributes over $23 million worth of food to over 2,000 non-profit organizations each month. This is done from our ten locations in Illinois, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Texas, East Africa, and Haiti.” Midwest Food Bank

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!

Affinity Federal Credit Union

Always taking that extra step to help someone in need, during Affinity FCU’s give-back week, one of their branches (New Haven Branch) took the time to volunteer a fall cleanup at the New Reach’s Life Haven Shelter! Thank you for all of your efforts in taking care of your community #CUfamily!

Fox Communities Credit Union 

Knowing that their Stock the Shelves campaign will be looking different this year because of COVID-19, Fox Communities CU is more determined than ever to make this campaign the biggest they have had yet. Since many families have been impacted by the pandemic, campaigns like these are crucial to help our many families who have trouble providing food on the table. 

“I can’t believe how many people I’m hearing from who have had a job forever, and all of [sic] the sudden their job isn’t there, or they’re making a lot less money,” she said. “If we can at least make sure they have full bellies when they go to bed at night that could be a huge part of what we’re doing.” Lynn Marie Hopfensperger, Development Officer 

Head to the credit union’s website for more information about the event! 

1st United Services Credit Union

Understanding the struggles of families all over the county not having the funds to put food on the table, 1st United Services CU is matching their virtual food drive donations up to $10,000! Thank you all for always being there for your community! 

“Due to COVID-19, food has become more of a necessity now than ever before, according to Alameda County Community Food Bank (ACCFB). And every dollar donated to the ACCFB equates to $7 worth of healthy food for a local family. That’s why 1st United has moved their food drive online this year and will be matching monetary donations made by members, staff, and community.” CUinsight

Royal Credit Union

Caring about their community, the foundation at Royal CU pledged $500,000 toward the $7 million expansion of the Eau Claire public library! 

“The Foundation focuses on large-scale, capital projects that help build community and create the spaces where people come together. Libraries are community gathering places that offer resources for everyone. We are proud to support the expansion of the L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library and appreciate the many ways it benefits the Eau Claire community.” RCU Foundation President John Sackett

Travis Credit Union 

How outstanding is this? The Travis Credit Union Foundation raised more than $1 million for the COVID-19 Relief Initiative. This was then MATCHED by Travis CU for a grand total of $2 million! So, where will the funds be going? Well, the funds will be distributed to 83 local community organizations, which will then provide many resources and services to families and individuals who were impacted by the pandemic. 

“We focused where we know funds would immediately recirculate and strengthen communities, creating authentic community impact and financial wellness. We will continue seeking more resources to help non-profits survive and innovate as we all prepare for the ‘new normal’ in the aftermath of COVID-19.” Damian Alarcon, President of the Travis Credit Union Foundation 

I-C Federal Credit Union

As part of the credit union’s “Empower – A Community Connection” initiative, I-C FCU donated $4,000 to Ginny’s Helping Hands & Food Pantry of Leominster! 

Quotes are taken from the Sentinel and Enterprise article: 

“We are very grateful to IC Credit Union for this generous donation,” said Susan Chalifoux Zephir, executive director of Ginny’s Helpings Hand. “This will go a long way in helping us provide fresh, nutritious food to our food pantry families and ensure that no one goes hungry during these challenging times.” 

“In times like these especially, outreach programs like food pantries need our help,” said Holly Sanchez, senior vice president of Human Resources at IC, “and we are humbled by their commitment to serve.”

If you have any questions, call us at (949) 548-7601, and be sure to check out our Products & Services for your Credit Union! From the first step to the last step of every project, we want to help you get to a successful finish!

Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Fall Into Good Fortune

Humanitarian Highlight 11.19.2020

Happy Thursday, everyone! How are you all doing today? Today’s #HumanitarianHighlight shows the many remarkable actions that credit unions have taken to help out their communities in any way possible. Even during a pandemic, many credit union staff and members have taken a stand to check up on their local businesses, helping them out, making sure different organizations still have food to hand out to people in need, etc. When looking at all the acts the credit union community has done, it truly brings a tear to our eyes to see that they all are trying to help each other out. That is why we love the #CUfamily so much! If you know of a credit union that has positively impacted their community, tag us and let us know so we can give them a shoutout! Time to fall into good fortune for those in the CUcommunity.

DuPage Credit Union

Not only does DuPage CU care for their members, but they also have the biggest hearts in caring for the community around them! During their shred & electronic recycling event, the credit union was able to collect 12 pounds of paper and 12 pallet boxes of electronics!

So, what does that equate to?

(Information is taken from DuPage Credit Union’s Facebook post)

  • 101 Trees SAVED
  • 41,625 Gallons of Water SAVED
  • 24,380 Kilowatts of Energy SAVED
  • 357 Pounds of Pollutants kept from the Atmosphere
  • 29.7 Cubic Yards of a Landfill SAVED

Clearview Federal Credit Union

Let’s give Clearview FCU a round of applause for their hard work and determination in ensuring that everyone in their community is taken care of. During their Virtual Clearview Cares Day, employees from the credit union donated to their partners, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, and Westmoreland County Food Bank! The total amount raised by the staff and the organization match came out to $2,950! Their 2020 fundraising total has now reached $12,000, which then equals 60,000 meals! Absolutely incredible, #CUfamily!

Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank: “We exist simply because people in our community struggle with meeting a basic human need—having enough to eat. The mission of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank is to feed people in need and mobilize our community to eliminate hunger.  But we can’t do it alone.”

CLICK HERE TO HELP!

Westmoreland County Food Bank: [sic]“By acquiring food through local donations and government food assistance programs (State Food Purchase Program and The Emergency Food Assistance Program) WCFB serves the community in several ways…

WAYS WE SERVE:

  • We provide food to meal programs, soup kitchens, food pantries, emergency shelters, and child care programs
  • We provide the means for donors to put their food to good use while gaining tax credits
  • We keep perfectly good food that can’t be sold (because of damaged packaging or a close code date) from becoming garbage in landfills
  • We believe that by pooling together all of the community resources, we can make a significant difference in the fight against hunger.”

CLICK HERE TO HELP!

OE Federal Credit Union

Not letting the pandemic stop them from supporting their community, OE FCU’s employees went by the Elko Firefighters Association with care packages containing handcrafted blankets to help keep the firefighters warm!

Greater Fox Cities Chapter of Credit Unions

This just brought a huge smile to our faces! In their partnership with Feeding America, the Greater Fox Cities Chapter of Credit Unions had a Stock the Shelves drive-thru event, and from all of their donations, 20,149 meals were raised for families who have been struggling with putting food on the table for their families. Remarkable job, everyone!

Feeding America: “The Feeding America network is the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization, working to connect people with food and end hunger. Donors, staff, and volunteers all play an important role in our efforts to end hunger in the United States.”

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!

PCM Credit Union

Back in September, PCM held their 6th Annual Christmas in-July-September Golf Outing for Children’s Miracle Network! With the help of 60 golfers and 19 sponsors, the total amount raised went well over $19,000 which will all go to local children in need.

Sunova Credit Union

The incredible staff and members from Sunova CU raised $3,970, which equals 397 meals to be donated to Made with Love! The donation will provide for people throughout Winnipeg who are in need of meals.

Dirigo Federal Credit Union

Through their Our Seeds of Hope Project, Dirigo FCU donated to 5 different nursing homes that were in need of many items. The credit union was very pleased to take 10 bird feeders to the residents and staff of Marshwood Center!

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s post, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

Friday, November 13, 2020

World Kindness Week

When it comes to compliant forms and disclosures for credit unions, there is Oak Tree Business Systems, Inc. For more than 37 years, we have been the ones supplying the best forms for credit unions from membership documents to the forms for all lending needs. It is World Kindness Week 2020!

When it comes to building a community, there are credit unions, who are always finding ways to show the #CUDifference and helping people open their eyes to a credit union with their many humanitarian efforts.

Let’s celebrate World Kindness Day and the #creditunions that know how vital such kindness is! Since 1998 this holiday has spread across the globe. From a day to a week we know celebrate every November a chance to unite under a united flag of kindness.

There are so many wonderful ways to celebrate this week. You can write random notes of kindness for others, even strangers. Help do errands for those in need. Cook a meal for a loved one. Even a hug is enough to show others that you care. It doesn’t have to be a huge action to show a little concern.

To see some great #HumanitarianHighlights where credit unions donate time, money, and other resources to help spread kindness every day you need to go to our Credit Union Blog! Did you do anything for World Kindness Week 2020?

Wednesday, November 11, 2020

The Season of Giving

Humanitarian Highlight 11.12.20

Happy Humanitarian Highlight Day everyone! We’re only one day away from Friday, so hang in there! We hope you all enjoy your weekend, and most of all we hope you enjoy reading all the amazing deeds our #CUfamily has been up to lately! If you know of a credit union that has positively impacted their community, tag us and let us know so we can give them a shoutout! It is truly the season of giving in the credit union community.

Mid Oregon Credit Union

Mid Oregon Credit Union was recognized by the Credit Union National Association and honored with the Alphonse Desjardins Youth and Adult Financial Education Award. They received the award for their Bite of Reality program, which teaches high school students about budgeting and money management. Awesome job, Mid Oregon CU!

Sunova Credit Union

This past October, Sunova members, and staff raised a grand total of $3,970 for the Made with Love program, which provides meals for those in need. The total equaled 397 meals for people throughout Winnipeg!

City & County Credit Union

This past month, City & County Credit Union was on a “People Helping People” mission and was able to make donations and volunteer for various programs. They made 440 snack packs for We Can Ride, Inc., 330 senior care bags for Help At Your Door, 26 tie blankets for the Ronald McDonald House, and beautified 2 local parks! Wow, what an achievement! Meridian Credit Union

Meridian Credit Union pledged to triple any donations made to one of two great organizations, including Food4Kids and helping those in need during COVID-19! This was part of their Donation Match Program!

In support of the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, Fibre Federal Credit Union pledged to match any donations made as part of their Credit Unions for Kids mission! To learn more about our Credit Unions for Kids mission, visit https://www.fibrecu.com/…/news…/cu4kids-doernbecher-days.

United Federal Credit Union

As a commitment to both their members and communities, United Federal Credit Union stopped by the Women & Children’s Center of the Sierra with a donation check of $1,000! United FCU was extremely excited to support this organization that helps women rise out of poverty.

Hometown Credit Union

Hometown Credit Union held a “Miracle Jeans Week” for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and was able to raise over $700 with the help of their community!

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s post, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

Thursday, November 5, 2020

CUs in the Limelight

Humanitarian Highlight 11/5/2020

Another #HumanitarianHighlight is here, and we are so pleased the day has finally come! Have you ever wondered what more you can do to help create a difference within the community? Sometimes thinking outside of the box can be very beneficial to those in need. If you know a credit union that has gone above and beyond in making a #CUdifference, use our hashtag #HumanitarianHighlight to let us know about it, so we can give them a shout-out! Now on to the CUs in the limelight.

American Southwest Credit Union

American Southwest CU has donated $10,000 to the Chiricahua Community Health Foundation in an effort to help with COVID relief and vaccines!

Black Hills Federal Credit Union

We first want to start by saying, WOW! Black Hills FCU took the time to sew 300 masks to be given in partnership with Masks for Rapid City, who will then distribute the masks to elementary school students from Rapid City Area Schools!

Eagle Community Credit Union

This incredible credit union announced 4 of their 2020 scholarship winners and awarded them $4,000 each to put toward their college expenses! Congratulations to all!

ORNL Federal Credit Union

The employees of the Bearden Branch of ORNL FCU took the time to collect non-perishable food items to be donated to the Blessing Box at the Bearden United Methodist Church. The Bearden Blessing box is a cabinet placed outside of the church to help those who are in need of non-perishable items. Thank you to all who took the time to donate and create a difference in someone’s life!

Community 1st Credit Union

In September, the Community 1st Credit Union Foundation was able to award $25,000 to the Jefferson Co. Kids Early Childhood Learning Center in an effort to help with the capital campaign to build a new facility for additional childcare spaces and resources.

“We understand and fully support the impact this new Early Childhood Learning Center will have in Fairfield and Jefferson County.” says Greg Hanshaw, CEO of Community 1st Credit Union, “Partnering with local organizations to promote community betterment is really what our credit union philosophy of ‘People Helping People’ is all about. We look forward to watching this project unfold soon.” KTVO

ELGA Credit Union

Congratulations to ELGA CU for raising funds through their annual Ginormous Tent Sale. The total donation came out to $2,500! The money will be helping and supporting Catholic Charities’ three soup kitchens, and counseling programs.

“This annual sale couldn’t happen without the support of ELGA associates and our community volunteers,” said ELGA CEO Karen Church. “It’s truly a miracle to see so many different organizations come together to make this sale happen. This was our fifth sale, and all together we’ve raised more than $85,000 to benefit the programs at Catholic Charities.” The Davison Index

First Basin Credit Union

Caring about their community, the First Basin team was up early to help clean the community around them. They were able to pick up many bags of trash! Way to go #CUfamily!

Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s post, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598.

Thursday, October 29, 2020

A World Of Good

Humanitarian Highlight 10/29/2020

Happy Humanitarian Highlight Day! It’s the last one for the month of October before we enter into November! We hope you all had a wonderful month and hope you have enjoyed reading all the acts of kindness this past month. We look forward to finding more stories and seeing credit unions from all around the country make their communities a little brighter and a world of good.

Workers Credit Union

Workers Credit Union members provided $41,000 to local non-profits through their annual GiveBack program earlier in September. Executives presented checks to each of the organizations, which included Habitat for Humanity, who received $17,300, and Worcester County Food Bank, who received $23,600. We’re so inspired by their members’ generosity Awesome job!

Rogue Credit Union

In just two weeks, Rogue Credit Union was able to raise more than $1 million for the families and communities affected by the wildfires in Oregon. These devastating fires destroyed thousands of structures and towns, displacing thousands of people in Oregon.

Indiana Members Credit Union

Indiana Members Credit Union presented a check for $1,974 to Carmel High School Athletics as part of their ongoing school spirit debit card program. The program allows Carmel fans the opportunity to show their school spirit and support the athletic program by signing up for a Carmel Greyhounds-themed debit card.  Every time the card is used as a signature-based transaction, Carmel Athletics benefits. 

Black Hills Federal Credit Union

A group of BHFCU employees were able to lend a helping hand in their final Adopt-A-Mile cleanup of the year. What a great way to keep their community spotless and beautiful! Great job, BHFCU!

Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union

AAACU Board of Directors Chairperson, Charlie Negro, presented an $800 check on behalf of AAACU to the pastor of Oscoda Assembly of God church. These funds will be used to purchase a truckload of food for their monthly grocery giveaway, which helps to feed about 250 families throughout the Oscoda community.

Suffolk Federal Credit Union

Thanks to Suffolk FCU, the Gateway Performing Arts Center (“The Gateway Playhouse”) of Suffolk County in ­Bellport, N.Y., received a $10,000 grant that administered small business relief grants from the Home Loan Bank of New York, created to support the financial security and health of workers who are employed by organizations that have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. 

Capital Area Federal Credit Union

Every year in September and October, our community comes together to rally around our cancer survivors, fighters and loved ones. The Capital Area FCU crew participated in their virtual Walk for Hope this year! They were able to raise over $1,000 for the organization. Great job, everyone!

Thank you for tuning in to our Humanitarian Highlight! We’ll be back next week with some more generous credit unions! Please check out last week’s post, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598, especially if your credit union needs the best lending documents!

Thursday, October 22, 2020

Sigh of Relief

Humanitarian Highlight 10/22/2020

Humanitarian Highlight 10/22/2020 | Sigh of Relief

Good morning #CUfamily! Today’s #HumanitarianHighlight consists of a few credit unions who have done great deeds to ensure that everyone in their community is taken care of and is shown support. If you can, follow and like your fellow credit union’s mentioned pages, so we can help grow the credit union family even more. For those in need, there are credit unions to give a sigh of relief.

New Horizons Credit Union

Providing a helping hand, New Horizons donated $1,000 to the Penelope House which offers safe shelter and free resources to victims of domestic violence! The credit union’s employees raised the money through their jean days as a way to help support local charities.

“Penelope House helps victims of intimate partner violence to gain social and economic independence through shelter, counseling, advocacy, and referral to community resources and agencies in Mobile, Washington, Choctaw, and Clarke Counties in Alabama.  The shelter can provide refuge for victims and their children when their lives are in imminent danger. The temporary shelter allows escaping from a violent situation. The prevention of domestic violence through education and public awareness is the goal of Penelope House.” Penelope House, Inc.

 Click HERE to learn more!

Cutting Edge Credit Union

Wanting to help the firefighters who are battling fires, Cutting Edge CU found out they were in need of Chapstick to protect them from the heat and wind. The credit union donated 500 tubes of lip balm to the Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue to be distributed to all the frontline firefighters.

DuGood Federal Credit Union

Lending a helping hand, DuGood FCU partnered up with United Way Orange County, TX to help pass out meals and supplies to people who were affected by Hurricane Laura. Incredible job #CUfamily!

Fitzsimons Federal Credit Union

Let’s give a round of applause to Fitzsimons FCU for reaching their goal of $50,000 for donations to local food banks. To help reach a bigger goal, the credit union now wants to raise $100,000 by working with other credit unions with a virtual food drive for Food Bank of the Rockies.

“1 in 10 Coloradans worry where their next meal will come from. These are people you meet every day- those with low-wage jobs, children, seniors on fixed incomes, those with health issues. Surprisingly, the homeless represent only 10% of our food recipients. Nearly half of the food we distribute feeds children.

Hunger can be found everywhere – often where you least expect it. The homeless population represents only about 10% of our food recipients.” Food Bank of the Rockies

Click HERE to learn more about the Food Bank of the Rockies!

Click HERE to head to their site to donate!

Members 1st of NJ Federal Credit Union

Congratulations to Members 1st of NJ FCU for being awarded a $90,000 block grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York’s COVID-19 Small Business Recovery Grant to help businesses and nonprofits recover from the pandemic.

Contact Members 1st of NJ FCU to find out how your business or nonprofit may qualify for the grant.

Arbor Financial Credit Union

Taking the time to help raise awareness, Arbor Financial CU joined in the Stomp Out Stigma 5k! The team was able to raise $4,110 for The Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan – be nice.

“The Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan is a local nonprofit that provides mental health education through our programs be nice. & Live Laugh Love. Our staff is also certified to teach Mental Health First Aid. be nice. is our leading education program that is catered to all ages, K-senior citizens. be nice. is an acronym and a four-step Action Plan to notice, invite, challenge, and empower yourself or someone struggling with their mental health. You can learn the be nice. Action Plan and take the Pledge to be nice. in your community at www.benice.org.” be nice.

Click HERE to learn more.

Linn Area Credit Union

Outstanding job to Linn Area CU for donating $10,000 to HACAP in an effort to help provide food and other supplies and services to people who were affected by the derecho storm.

“We are HACAP – a diverse, community-focused nonprofit dedicated to the sustained improvement of human life in our communities. As one of eighteen Iowa community action agencies, we provide flexible and adaptive programs and services that work toward removing the barriers to self-sufficiency. HACAP provides service in six counties in Iowa: Benton, Iowa, Johnson, Jones, Linn, and Washington. We build collaboration among for-profit, nonprofit, faith-based, service groups, and community members in order to make stronger, healthier communities.

Poverty is a complex human condition, which in many respects lingers outside traditional market economics. Poverty creates barriers to human progress, restricting individual opportunity. Its impacts need to be addressed locally for maximized results.” HACAP

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Thank you for reading this Humanitarian Highlight! Please check out last week’s post, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products & services through our email or by phone (800) 537-9598, especially if your credit union needs the best lending documents!

Strength to Overcome

Humanitarian Highlight 8.12.21 This week, our focus for Humanitarian Highlight is on credit unions who are giving their community the streng...