Credit unions have a long tradition of giving back to their communities. Beyond member services, strong community involvement boosts employee engagement, reduces turnover, and improves profitability.
We asked leaders from two standout credit unions — iQ Credit Union (Washington) and Leaders Credit Union (Tennessee) — how they build meaningful community connections and the benefits they see in return.
Make Community Part of Your Culture
Successful community engagement is intentional. Both credit unions embed service into their operations with dedicated teams and foundations.
Leaders Credit Union (Jackson, TN) created the Leaders Education Foundation in 2019 to fund scholarships, grants, and lifelong learning programs. They also maintain a community engagement team that delivers free financial wellness sessions, supports local events, and provides volunteer hours. Three regional advisory boards keep them closely connected to local needs.
iQ Credit Union (Vancouver, WA) runs iQ for Kids, a foundation focused on improving children’s lives. Their community impact team delivers financial literacy programs for kids and adults, while all employees receive paid volunteer time off.
Creative Engagement Ideas That Work
iQ Credit Union (Forbes’ #1 Credit Union in its state):
- High school students run real campus branches and can become paid interns
- Hosts Financial Reality Fairs — immersive simulations teaching teens budgeting and money management
- Sets up fun financial literacy booths at farmers markets for younger kids
- Partners with local TV for “Good Things Happen” spotlights featuring employee-led giveaways
Leaders Credit Union (American Banker’s Best Credit Union to Work For – 3 years running):
- Awards $25,000 in annual high school scholarships
- Runs the L.E.A.D.S. Educator Grant program for teachers
- Delivers over 50 financial literacy classes each year
- Stocks community blessing boxes and runs the Leaders with Love holiday service projects
A Win-Win for Credit Unions and Communities
Strong community presence delivers clear business benefits.“
Community involvement helps with recruitment and retention,” says Erin Mitchell, VP of Human Resources at Leaders. “Employees see their credit union’s earnings supporting causes they care about.”
Kari Stansberry, Chief Administrative Officer at iQ, adds: “Employees want a sense of belonging and the chance to give back. Inclusivity is one of our core operating principles.”
Ready to Strengthen Your Impact?
Great community outreach creates happier, more engaged employees. Pair it with smarter benefits to amplify the effect.
Schedule a consultation with CU Benefits Alliance today to learn how self-insurance can lower healthcare costs, free up funds for community initiatives, and deliver high-quality benefits your team will love.