Videos Highlight Community First FCU & Michigan Coastal CU Financial Wellbeing Grant Initiatives
The Michigan Credit Union Foundation (MCUF) is a catalyst to increase the impact and awareness of the credit union difference, increasing the wellbeing of people, families, business and communities in Michigan. MCUF awarded 16 Community Enrichment Grants in 2022, totaling $79,495 to help boost credit union impact. Two recent grant initiatives show that even small credit unions and small-scale programs are making a big difference for people and families in their communities.
Start Small and Build
Community First Federal Credit Union started their emergency savings pilot program small and close to home, with CFFCU employees. They found that building just $400 in emergency savings has made staff members feel more emotionally and financially secure. With the help of an MCUF grant, the program is now available to members and includes a financial coaching and education program.
Community Influencers People Can Trust
Michigan Coastal Credit Union CEO Rob Viland knew that the key to connecting with and helping more people in Muskegon County towards better financial health is to partner with a trusted community influencer. Monthly financial education workshops in partnership with Pastor Jerry Riley and the Upper Room Church are providing hope to participants, and Michigan Coastal’ s accounts and loans are helping many participants significantly improve their budgets.
MCUF Community Enrichment Grants are available to help credit unions and are easy to access. 2023 grant target areas include financial inclusion, education and counseling initiatives, small business support, assisting underserved and minority communities, and community crisis support. MCUF works with cooperative donations from credit unions, chapters, and businesses to empower credit unions to increase financial wellbeing by supporting community enrichment, financial education and credit union development initiatives. All Michigan credit unions are encouraged to engage with the Foundation as financial donors and as participants in MCUF programs. To see MCUF grant showcase videos, make a donation or apply for programs visit MCUF.mcul.org.
