Strengthening Communities

Credit unions strengthen the places they call home by responding to local needs and creating opportunities for families to thrive.

Credit unions don't just turn up, they show up. By providing support that stretches beyond traditional financial services, they're building healthier, more resilient communities.

COMMUNITY FIRST

Impact at Scale

Across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia, 46 CDFI credit unions secured $13.2 million in awards last year. In addition, 262 Low-Income Designated credit unions expanded affordable access across the four-state footprint.

Alabama

9 CDFI-designated credit unions
$1.2M in CDFI awards
Secured by 3 credit unions
63 Low-Income Designated credit unions

Florida

25 CDFI-designated credit unions
$8.8M
in CDFI awards
Secured by 14 credit unions
95 Low-Income Designated credit unions

Georgia

5 CDFI-designated credit unions
$300K in CDFI awards
Secured by one credit union
42 Low-Income Designated credit unions

Virginia

7 CDFI-designated credit unions
$2.9M in CDFI awards
Secured by five credit unions

62 Low-Income Designated credit unions

Funding hope and security

In 2024, Florida’s Gulf Winds Credit Union contributed $20,000 to support the purchase of Angel Eye cameras for a 62-bed neonatal intensive care unit.

The technology allows parents, including military families stationed overseas, to watch over their babies around the clock through a secure online connection, bringing comfort and peace of mind during critical moments.

INVESTING WHERE IT MATTERS

Creating opportunity where it’s needed most

Credit unions create opportunities for underserved communities by directing millions in resources through CDFI and Low-Income designation institutions.

Across our four states, 46 CDFI-designated credit unions directed vital federal funds to underserved areas in 2024.

Some of these CDFIs make up the 262 Low-Income Designated credit unions in the same area, dedicated to expanding safe, affordable access to financial services for the communities that are so often left behind.

That commitment to serve the underserved is why 113 credit unions developed digital tools in 2024, tailored specifically to support low-income populations—proving that access and innovation can, and should, go hand in hand.

What is a CDFI?

A Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) is certified by the U.S. Department of the Treasury to serve low-income and underserved communities by offering affordable loans, credit, and financial services.

Transforming schools in Georgia

Through its annual School Crashers® program, the Georgia United Credit Union Foundation continues to create brighter, safer learning environments for students across the state.

In 2024, the Foundation awarded facility makeovers to six Georgia schools, providing upgrades that included playground improvements, classroom renovations, new furniture, and landscaping enhancements. Each project brought together volunteers, educators, and community partners to strengthen local schools and support the success of Georgia’s youth.

“Community engagement means listening, learning, and working to make a difference through our time and resources. We strive to be active, engaged leaders on the most pressing issues facing our communities.”

Chris Shockley
President and CEO
Virginia Credit Union

THE WHY BEHIND THE WHAT

Supporting Members

Whether it's online or in-person, every credit union places the financial health and wellbeing of their members at the heart of every service, solution, and experience.