Katie BaileyWith Thanksgiving just around the corner, we are celebrating the many ways credit unions are giving back this season, and how the Credit Union Impact Foundation helps extend that generosity across our footprint.
This year, the Credit Union Impact Foundation helped credit unions deepen their community impact by awarding more than $234,000 in grants across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia. These grants supported financial education programs, community outreach, professional development, operational needs, and disaster readiness. Each award reflects the Foundation’s commitment to helping credit unions strengthen the services they provide and create meaningful change for the people they serve.
At the same time, credit unions in every state are leading with heart and finding meaningful ways to serve their communities:
In Alabama, Alabama Credit Union is partnering with Kids to Love to host a Christmas Drive that supports thousands of children living in foster care. Members and staff are donating new, unwrapped gifts to help fill holiday wish lists and make the season brighter for youth across the region.
In Florida, the Community First Thanksgiving Distance Classic continues a long-running local tradition. Now in its 42nd year, Community First Credit Union brings together more than 3,000 participants on Thanksgiving morning to raise funds for the Mandarin Food Bank and support the development of a new three-mile walking and running path at Aterro Recreation Park.
In Georgia, CDC Federal Credit Union supported families across metro Atlanta by collecting non-perishable food items to fill Thanksgiving baskets for organizations such as Nicholas House and the Amani Women Center. Members and staff donated items like macaroni, canned vegetables, cranberry sauce, cornbread mix, potatoes, and other essentials, helping ensure local families had a brighter holiday season.
In Virginia, the RVA Financial Federal Credit Union team recently volunteered at the Stuffed Pals Fundraising Event at Longdale Elementary. Staff helped students choose a stuffed animal, assisted with assembly, and supported a fun event designed to uplift local families and create lasting memories for children.
As we head into Giving Tuesday, celebrated on December 2, these stories remind us that generosity isn’t limited to one day. It is the ongoing spirit of ”People Helping People” that defines credit unions and the movement we share.
