Katie BaileyCredit unions are more than financial institutions. They are active community partners, leaders, and advocates working to improve lives and strengthen relationships. As we close out July’s theme, Credit Union Awareness and Community Leadership, we are spotlighting three credit unions across our footprint that lead with service, education, and a steady commitment to their communities. These stories show how awareness grows when leaders show up, listen, and act.
At Hello Credit Union, headquartered in Panama City, Florida, community leadership is about showing up and making a difference where it counts. From environmental clean-up efforts to supporting senior citizens and assisting with disaster relief, Hello Credit Union is committed to leading with heart, service, and impact.
On Presidents Day, when many financial institutions were closed, Hello Credit Union staff volunteered across North Florida. They partnered with organizations like the American Red Cross to install smoke detectors in low-income homes, supported a beach clean-up at St. Andrews State Park, and spent time with residents at Brookdale Memory Care. They also helped install technology at Helping Hands of Blountstown and assisted with client intake at Beach Care Services. These efforts reflect the credit union’s belief in service over self and its dedication to uplifting the communities it serves.
The credit union raises awareness about the credit union difference by staying visible, engaging in outreach events, and partnering with trusted organizations. Each act of service becomes an opportunity to show the value of a member-first cooperative. CEO Mike Akers said, “Our team takes pride in serving our community, and we are honored to support these incredible organizations that make such a meaningful impact every day.”
Hello Credit Union connects with individuals unfamiliar with credit unions by volunteering in the community and building trust through action. Their advice to others is to be intentional, align efforts with core values, and lead by example.
Legacy Community Federal Credit Union
Legacy Community Credit Union, located in Birmingham, Alabama, defines community leadership as lifting up members through meaningful financial products, services, and guidance. The credit union’s approach is rooted in doing what is right and investing in the communities it serves.
In 2025, Legacy Community Credit Union opened a new branch in McCalla, prepared to launch a new digital banking app, and expanded into three new counties through the acquisition of a small community bank. The credit union also continued to grow its Financial Education program through both one-on-one meetings and webinars.
Another key initiative is the Legacy Builder Campaign, which honors Birmingham-area nonprofits working in diversity and inclusion. Since 2022, Legacy has selected four organizations each year to receive a $2,500 donation and a professionally produced video spotlight. These videos are shared during the annual C.M. Newton Classic, helping elevate local nonprofit missions and stories.
Legacy Community Credit Union raises awareness by delivering financial services with care and intention. The credit union avoids a one-size-fits-all approach, choosing instead to craft personalized solutions based on each member’s needs. Through its partnership with the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Legacy Community Credit Union connects with students, faculty, and alumni to introduce the credit union model and educate new audiences.
Their advice to other credit unions is to focus on consistent, authentic engagement rather than large-scale visibility. Relational efforts, they note, are what deepen connections and expand community impact over time.
Freedom First Credit Union in Roanoke, Virginia defines community leadership as using resources, relationships, and voice to advocate for economic equity and social wellbeing. The credit union focuses on championing financial education, investing in underserved areas, and building a stronger, more inclusive future.
One of Freedom First’s Credit Union most visible initiatives is Scoop, a branded ice cream truck that doubles as a mobile financial education tool. Scoop appears at schools, housing fairs, and community events to spark conversations about financial wellness in a fun and approachable way. The credit union also operates a Financial Empowerment Center that offers free, one-on-one financial coaching in a welcoming, judgment-free setting. By partnering with schools, nonprofits, and workforce development programs, the center ensures education and resources reach those who need it most.
Freedom First Credit Union raises awareness through financial literacy workshops, bilingual outreach, and frequent community engagement. The credit union highlights the value of member ownership and mission-driven service through real-life stories and face-to-face connections.
Their advice to others is to lead with empathy, listen intentionally, and invest in authentic partnerships. Community impact, they note, grows from understanding member needs and working together toward solutions that build long-term trust and transformation.
A Lasting Commitment to Community
The credit unions featured here show that leadership can take many forms, whether it’s volunteering on a holiday, supporting local nonprofits, or building financial education into everyday interactions. These stories reflect the heart of the credit union movement and the belief that people helping people will always be a powerful force for good.
