ST. PAUL, Minn.–Credit union workers across 10 states participated in CU Forward Day.
In Minnesota, that included some 1,400 CU workers who volunteered their time.
“For the past 10 years, credit unions have committed to volunteer their time and talents to spread kindness and serve their communities throughout the state on a day that could be a personal holiday,” said the Minnesota Credit Union Network.
The MnCUN noted that in 2013, St. Paul-based Affinity Plus FCU hosted its first organization-wide Plus It Forward Day.
‘Employee-Driven Idea’
“The concept grew out of an employee-driven idea of what it meant to be a part of the community, to give back, and how credit unions could randomly spread kindness,” the Minnesota Network added, noting that it assumed the coordination of credit union participation under the umbrella of CU Forward Day starting in 2017.
“Ten years later, CU Forward Day has spread to seven additional states. It brings together credit union employees, members and partners to help community organizations and individuals by volunteering and spreading kindness,” the association said.
Other states participating include Illinois, Michigan, Montana, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
What Leagues Are Saying
- “I’m so proud to work in an industry that focuses on people over profits”, said the Illinois Credit Union League President, Tom Kane. “I look at our CU Kind Day initiative, and the kindness days being hosted by our league neighbors, as a great example of that mindset; it is an opportunity to show our communities what the credit union difference looks like and demonstrate our commitment to serving others. This year, we are thrilled to collaborate with seven leagues in eight states to spread credit union kindness. The impact generated on Oct. 9 will be significant, both in stronger communities and fuller hearts.”
- “We are excited to be participating for a second year with CU Kind Day,” said Patty Corkery, president & CEO, Michigan Credit Union League. “It is a day of showcasing the many ways our credit unions reach out and support their community, and for our MCUL team to volunteer with important organizations like Lighthouse in Pontiac, Michigan that provides food and shelter to those in need. We are proud to be part of the national initiative to share the amazing stories of those who work in this awesome industry.”
- "Credit unions all over our state have community service as one of their guiding principles," stated Josh Roberts, VP of System Collaboration & Development at The Wisconsin Credit Union League. "Our CU Community Day gives credit unions the opportunity to share the great ways they give back to their members and neighbors, but also provides a way to amplify their efforts. And not only are we celebrating it with our Wisconsin credit union friends, but with credit unions all over the country."
Numerous Projects
While totals are not yet for 2023, in 2022 employees from 66 credit unions and partnering organizations volunteered 13,000 hours across Minnesota, spending $300,000 to spread kindness as part of the one-day initiative.
Among the 2023 initiatives:
- One CU volunteered with Keystone Community Services in St. Paul to help with outdoor upkeep at the West 7th Community Center.
- Another CU participated in the “Cooking Up Hope” program to provide and serve guests with dinner at the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Minneapolis
- One CU worked with schools on the United Way Backpack Program, helping seniors with lawn work, and making blankets for the Mower County Success Closet.
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