Michigan Credit Union Foundation

MCUF Awards $27,740 Grant to Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union for Financial Education Resource Center

The Michigan Credit Union Foundation (MCUF) is proud to announce the approval of a $27,740 Community Enrichment Support Grant to Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union (AAACU) to help establish a Financial Education Resource Center at Alpena Community College (ACC). This collaborative initiative will provide students and staff with accessible financial education, resources and personalized guidance to help build stronger financial futures.

The new resource center will be part of a redesigned student activity space on ACC's campus, creating a welcoming environment where students can learn, connect and access financial education outside the traditional classroom. The space will feature areas for financial coaching, small-group workshops, collaborative learning and private one-on-one consultations.

Through the partnership, AAACU plans to offer financial education workshops, classroom presentations and individual guidance on topics such as budgeting, saving, credit and responsible borrowing. By establishing a consistent presence on campus, the credit union hopes to reduce barriers to financial education and reach students at a critical point in their financial journeys.

With approximately 1,500 students attending ACC each semester, the initiative has the potential to make a meaningful, lasting impact on financial confidence and well-being throughout the community.

"One of the most rewarding parts of our work at MCUF is helping credit unions turn great ideas into meaningful community impact," said Andrea Tucker, Executive Director of the Michigan Credit Union Foundation. "Alpena Alcona Area CU is creating an opportunity to connect with students at an important step in their lives, providing the tools, resources and guidance they need to make informed financial decisions. We're proud to support this partnership and excited to see the impact it will have on students and the broader Alpena community."

The project represents a collaborative investment of more than $61,000, with additional financial and in-kind support from AAACU and ACC. Beyond creating a dedicated financial education space, the partnership is designed to establish an ongoing resource that supports students and staff for years to come.

MCUF's Community Enrichment Support Grants help credit unions launch innovative initiatives and partnerships that improve financial well-being and strengthen communities across Michigan. We congratulate Alpena Alcona Area CU and Alpena Community College on this exciting collaboration!

Have an idea for making a difference in your community? Learn more about MCUF funding opportunities by visiting the Community Enrichment Support Grants page.