MCUF Grants Available to Help CUs Increase Impact

Michigan credit unions are involved in inspiring community reinvestment activities with the help from Michigan Credit Union Foundation (MCUF) grants. A recent grant helped the Metro East Chapter of Credit Unions come together for several Habitat for Humanity Chapter build projects that include tool donation and financial education resources for Habitat families and site volunteers. Limestone Credit Union is leveraging MCUF grant funding to launch a student-run coffee shop in the community and both Allegan Community Federal Credit Union and Community Promise are helping members create a more secure financial future with new programs and financial counseling implemented with the help of MCUF grants.

MCUF is making funds available to help credit unions build stronger communities by addressing community problems, creating sustainable solutions and by helping to increase community reinvestment, financial education initiatives, partnerships and more. Contact the Foundation by June 30 to apply for a community reinvestment grant providing support for small or large initiatives, grants are available ranging from $100 to $20,000.

Applying for and utilizing a MCUF grant is easy, contact MCUF executive director Beth Troost to start the process with a conversation to explore your ideas for funding. Grants from the Foundation can be used to implement unique credit union initiatives or partnerships, or to replicate or expand on existing saving, lending and educational programs to help community members. Examples and suggestions for community reinvestment projects are listed on the MCUF website, these include conducting community “credit check-ups,” expanding financial education activities and enhancing non-prime auto lending. Requests for funding to assist families and small businesses in low-income, underbanked or underserved areas are especially encouraged by MCUF.

Funded by donations from credit unions, chapters and businesses, MCUF works cooperatively to help credit unions thrive and serve Michigan communities through financial education, community reinvestment and professional development support. The current MCUF grant cycle inquiries are due June 30. For more information or to get started, contact Beth Troost at (800) 262-6285, ext. 453, or learn more about donating or applying for funding here.