Whether it's giving back, responding to COVID-19, awarding scholarships, or fostering financial literacy (and so much more), here's how Wisconsin's credit unions supported their members and communities in September.
Giving Back
Blood Drive Planned Thursday in Merrill, 300 Prizes Available to Donors
Park City Credit Union and the Community Blood Center will team up for a blood drive on Thursday in Merrill. All donors will be entered to win one of more than 300 prizes, including $10 and $15 Kwik Trip gas cards and gifts from the Community Blood Center.
(Park City Credit Union, 9/1)
Connexus Donates $125k to Wood County Food Program
Connexus Credit Union’s philanthropic program, Connexus Cares, has donated $125,000 to the Feeding our Communities with United Services building relocation project, a dollar-for-dollar campaign match of all donations made between May and August of 2021.
(Connexus Credit Union, 9/16)
Fox Communities Credit Union Bolsters Fox Cares Foundation More Than $25,000
Fox Communities Credit Union has matched more than $14,000 in funds to benefit the Fox Cares Foundation during the credit union’s first-ever matching funds challenge.
(Fox Communities Credit Union, 9/27)
Sheboygan County Food Bank: Volunteers Package Food Kits
Kohler Credit Union Community Development Manager Kirsten Coenen helps assemble weekend supplemental food kits for children for the Food for Thought program at the Sheboygan county Food Bank, Tuesday, September 28, 2021, in Sheboygan, Wis.
(Kohler Credit Union, 9/28)
Supporting Financial Literacy
How You Can Get Ahead Investing as Little $25 a Month Into a Retirement Fund
The pandemic caused the fund that pays Social Security benefits to take a hit. The Social Security Administration website said the program is projected to become depleted by 2033. That’s a whole year earlier than estimated last year. That leaves 76% of the benefits payable at that time. The Park City Credit Union investment experts have had concerns from customers about this issue. (Park City Credit Union, 9/14)
Webinar: Investment Basics
Isn't it time to begin investing in your future? Join us for this free webinar, Investment Basics, presented by our Wisconsin Strong partner, Summit Credit Union. (Summit Credit Union, 9/16)
Simplicity Credit Union Provides Financial Literacy Resources to Local Students and the Community
Simplicity Credit Union is bringing financial literacy education to over 14,300 students and residents in Wisconsin. Students at 91 schools and the surrounding community have free access to Banzai, an award-winning online program and content library that allows users to practice real-world finance from the safety of their home or classroom using any internet-enabled device. At a time when a solid foundation of practical financial knowledge is critical, these resources will make a huge impact on users. (Simplicity Credit Union, 9/16)
Kohler Credit Union Sponsoring Free Financial Literacy Program for Kids
Kohler Credit Union is partnering with Banzai to provide a free financial literacy program to local schools. Banzai is an online program that teaches kids how to build a budget and manage money based on real life situations. With Banzai, students create their own accounts, and have their progress monitored by teachers either in person or remotely. (Kohler Credit Union, 9/20)
Resource Fair Offers Energy Assistance, Health Screenings
Also, people will be able to attend a seminar on financial scams, hosted by Blackhawk Community Credit Union. (Blackhawk Community Credit Union, 9/30)
Fostering Excellence
The Best Credit Unions to Work For, Under $500 Million in Assets, 2021
Among the 55 institutions were ranked in our annual Best Credit Unions to Work For, the smallest focused on maintaining normalcy in a hybrid workplace. (PCM Credit Union & Simplicity Credit Union, 9/3)
Kim Sponem Named 2021 Employ Humanity Credit Union CEO of the Year
Employ Humanity is pleased to announce Kim Sponem, CEO of Summit Credit Union, as the 2021 Employ Humanity Credit Union CEO of the Year for demonstrating excellence in servant leadership and financial wellness education. (Summit Credit Union, 9/14)
An Advocate with Amplification
A young professional who’s committed to sharing the credit union story, Amanda Farnham found herself in the perfect role. Farnham recently finished a two-year stint as Royal Credit Union’s Young Professional Credit Union Activist (YP CU Activist). (Royal Credit Union, 9/24)
Growth Through Trust, Collaboration
David Murphy’s story is one of moving up. He started as a member service representative and then moved through the roles of teller, loan servicing specialist, internal controls specialist, internal audit manager, vice president of finance and risk—and in May 2021, president of $86 million asset Marshfield (Wis.) Medical Center Credit Union. (Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union, 9/24)
Providing Innovative Solutions
FCCU to be Recognized for Commitment to Serving, Empowering Hispanic Community
Inclusiv, a leading national financial inclusion advocate, has awarded Fort Community Credit Union (FCCU) the nationwide Juntos Avanzamos, “Together We Advance,” designation for its commitment to serving and empowering Hispanic and immigrant members by providing safe, affordable, transparent and relevant financial services. (Fort Community Credit Union, 9/3)
UW Credit Union Clear Account Receives National Certification by Banking Advocates as Safe, Affordable Account
Today, UW Credit Union’s Clear Account was officially certified by the national Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund) as meeting the Bank On National Account Standards (2021 – 2022). The national safe account Standards, co-created by consumer advocates, leading national nonprofit organizations, civic leaders, and other financial institutions, designate both core and strongly recommended features that ensure low cost, high functionality, and consumer safety. (UW Credit Union, 9/17)
Creating Community
Enjoy Wine, Beer Tasting September 9 at the Church Barn
The Barron Area Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a Wine, Beer & Food Tasting event Thursday, Sept. 9, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Church Barn, 1615 13 ½ Street, Barron. (WESTconsin Credit Union, 9/1)
The Downtown Block Party is Returning to Children's Museum of Eau Claire
Next Weekend, the Downtown Block Party is returning to the Children's Museum of Eau Claire.The event runs Sept. 11 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in front of the RCU parking ramp. (Royal Credit Union, 9/3)
2021 igNight Market Series Returns in September
On Broadway is happy to announce the second igNight Market of 2021 is set to return September 18 from 5-10 p.m. at the Neville Public Museum. The remainder of the igNight Market series, presented by Fox Communities Credit Union, will take place on one Saturday a month during the months of September and October. September’s event will feature local artisans and makers, original live music, interactive art demonstrations, street performers, activities, food trucks and more. (Fox Communities Credit Union, 9/9)
Oktoberfest's Annual Medallion Hunt to Begin Monday
Coulee region “sleuths” will have their opportunity to match wits once again with the “clue master” as the annual 2021 Oktoberfest USA Medallion Hunt begins Monday, Sept. 20. (Altra Federal Credit Union, 9/13)
Art Forward: Sputnikfest Returns!
Just as a piece of the Russian Sputnik IV spacecraft returned to Earth in 1962, Sputnikfestreturned to Manitowoc last Saturday after taking a hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. We had it all! There were favorites like live music from Bazooka Joe, costume contests, the Alien Drop raffle, and visits by members of the 501st Legion. Former RWAM Board President/current RWAM Foundation Board Member Amy Fricke Weigel and Museum Director Greg Vadney co-chairs of Sputnikfest made a few changes in the constellation of Manitowoc’s favorite festival. (Community First Credit Union & Shoreline Hometown Credit Union, 9/15)
Celebrating 72 Years of Fall Festival this Weekend
It is hard to believe Amery’s big Fall Festival weekend is days away. Greek philosopher Heraclitus said, “There is nothing permanent except change.” Many adaptions needed to be made to this year’s festival, including different areas for the Grand Parade, Arts and Crafts, carnival and music. (WESTconsin Credit Union, 9/15)
Green Bay Overpass Becomes a Canvas for School Mural
Students at Howe Elementary School may feel a little more inspired to go to school on Monday. A long-awaited playground mural is coming to life near the school in downtown Green Bay, brush stroke by brush stroke. (Fox Communities Credit Union, 9/17)
Sixth Year of Center Stage High School Musical Theater Program Welcomes 24 High Schools
The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center has announced the tradition of celebrating the achievements of high school musical theater will continue into its sixth year. (Fox Communities Credit Union, 9/17)
CoVantage Plans New Branch in Plover
According to Brett Lee, CoVantage Credit Union Executive Vice President, “Our Board of Directors and leaders believe now is the opportune time to build a new branch in Plover to serve our growing membership. Our current Stevens Point branch serves thousands of member-owners every month as more and more members in Portage County are trusting CoVantage with their deposits, loans, and other financial needs. We’re so grateful to provide this new conveniently-located branch in the growing community of Plover.” (CoVantage Credit Union, 9/20)
13th Annual Youth Triathlon Held in Fort; 71 Participants Swim, Bike, Run
The 13th Annual Youth Triathlon was held in Fort Atkinson on Saturday, July 31, with 71 participants swimming, biking and running their way through the course at Rock River Park and the Fort Atkinson Aquatic Center. (Fort Community Credit Union, 9/20)
Fox Cities Chamber: Future Neenah Presents Farm to Your Table Dinner
These one-of-a-kind meal crates must be purchased in advance and will be prepared by Chef Peter Kuenzi of Zuppas Market Cafe and Catering using ingredients fresh from our local Future Neenah Farmers Market. They will be available for pick-up at Zuppas Green Room from 5-7 p.m. on October 7. Future Neenah and Community First Credit Union are excited to offer this special way to support all things local and enjoy an exceptional meal wherever you are comfortable. (Community First Credit Union, 9/22)
We're Screening "From Dusk Till Dawn" at Avalon Theater October 20
Before Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino teamed up for the self-conscious 2007 double-feature Grindhouse, they just went ahead and made an honest-to-goodness grindhouse film. Yes, 1997’s From Dusk Till Dawn (directed by Rodriguez, written by Tarantino) is a grindhouse film through and through: violent, vulgar, ridiculous. And, oddly enough, it’s practically two films in one. (Educators Credit Union, 9/23)
2021 Volunteer Expo - Volunteer Center of Brown County Inc.
Want to volunteer? Get Connected at the Volunteer Expo! This fun, family-friendly event is hosted by the Volunteer Center of Brown county and presented by Fox Communities Credit Union. (Fox Communities Credit Union, 9/23)
Wisconsin Pumpkins Growers Show Off Giant Gourds at River Prairie Pumpkin Festival
At the third annual River Prairie Pumpkin Festival in Eau Claire county, farmers showed off their giant gourds on Saturday, Sept. 25. One of the pumpkins on display beat a state record. Grower, Michael Paul's pumpkin weighed in at 177 pounds. (Royal Credit Union, 9/26)
Investing in Communities
Royal Credit Union Breaks Ground on New Altoona Office Location
For four thousand RCU members in Altoona, going to a brick and mortar location is about to get easier. Yesterday’s groundbreaking for the latest royal credit union branch… Located in river prairie near woodman’s will be Altoona’s first. The River Prairie Branch will be concerned with retail matters, like consumer loans and deposits and business banking. (Royal Credit Union, 9/9)
Landmark Credit Union's New Brookfield HQ
Landmark Credit Union earlier this year settled into its new Brookfield headquarters on Executive Drive. Jay Magulski, president and chief executive officer of Landmark, said at full occupancy the building will house around 400 employees. (Landmark Credit Union, 9/13)
CoVantage Plans New Branch in Plover
According to Brett Lee, CoVantage Credit Union Executive Vice President, “Our Board of Directors and leaders believe now is the opportune time to build a new branch in Plover to serve our growing membership. Our current Stevens Point branch serves thousands of member-owners every month as more and more members in Portage County are trusting CoVantage with their deposits, loans, and other financial needs. We’re so grateful to provide this new conveniently-located branch in the growing community of Plover.” (CoVantage Credit Union, 9/20)
Royal Credit Union Marks Grand Opening for Medford Location
Royal Credit Union (Royal) hosted a grand opening celebration for its new office in Medford, WI last week. The new office is located at 352 N. 8th Street and is open for business Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and by appointment on Saturdays. The drive-up is open 7:30 a.m. -5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. -5:30 p.m. Fridays and 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. on Saturdays. A drive-up ATM is also available 24 hours a day. (Royal Credit Union, 9/29)