MADISON, Wis.—The Worldwide Foundation for Credit Unions has introduced Communities of Caring, a new initiative that is seeking to collect stories for a book about the diverse group of people who have benefited from the help of credit unions worldwide.
The initiative is being led by Executive Director Mike Reuter and OneAZ Credit Union Board Chair Martha Rozen.
“Credit unions enrich the lives of individuals in their communities by providing services that enhance their financial well-being,” said Rozen. “Behind each member, employee and partner is a story of how a credit union has made a difference for them. We want credit unions to share stories that illustrate how they have impacted the people they serve.”
According to the Foundation, Rozen and Reuter are asking credit union people from across the global movement to write their own stories or ask their colleagues to share their most memorable moments of how they have helped local members or communities.
One Member’s Story
The Foundation added that Serve and Protect Credit Union in Birmingham, England has already shared a story about Anthony, a member since 2010.
“After serving as a local police constable for many years, Anthony decided to retire abroad. However, his life was put at risk when he was informed that he had to undergo heart surgery,” Serve and Protect CU shared. “To prepare for the surgery, Anthony required a medical intervention to be performed beforehand. News went from bad to worse once he learned his insurance did not cover the procedure. In need of urgent help, Anthony applied for a loan from Serve and Protect in July 2020. After explaining his case, their team was able to swiftly work on his loan and issue the funds he needed within 24 hours.”
Said Anthony, “The surgery was successful, and I am now leading a normal life and looking forward to Christmas. I am writing to thank you for your speedy help which, in part, saved my life. I will be eternally grateful to you.”
‘Small, Noble Acts’
The book will be published and sold, with proceeds providing ongoing educational and engagement support to help expand the awareness of credit unions' impact through the Worldwide Foundation’s mission, the organization said.
“Recounting specific acts of caring and giving back to members like that are exactly what we’re looking for,” explained Reuter. “And small, noble acts of service are just as important as the large ones.”
For additional info, click here. Credit unions can submit their stories to Communities of Caring until May 1.
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