The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation stands strong and proud after more than 30 years of operation, serving as a catalyst for philanthropy and community impact for credit unions and a support arm to ensure our small credit unions can succeed. In 2023, the Foundation distributed more than $3.4 million in funding in areas like disaster relief, hardship assistance, educational programs & grants, academic & needs-based scholarships and non-profit grant support! We are especially thankful for our 2023 Operational Supporters, 2023 Program Supporters and the leadership of our Board of Directors. As your partner in philanthropy, I encourage you to share the Foundation’s collaborative good work with those in your credit union and in your community.
Grants And Scholarships
LOCAL CHARITABLE GIVING
We oversee donor funds on behalf of credit unions, business partners and chapters for non- profit grant initiatives. We also manage credit union-branded foundations, furthering the social impact of our industry.
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM MANAGEMENT
Credit union members achieve their educational dreams through our streamlined scholarship program for credit unions and chapters. We also partner with Zogo, providing all scholarship winners with free access to an interactive financial learning app.
HARDSHIP FUNDS
We manage hardship programs on behalf of credit unions, providing grants to both members and employees.
DEVELOPMENT SCHOLARSHIPS
The Foundation offers numerous scholarships allowing employees to further their professional development and receive designations.
COMMUNITY GRANTS
We provide matching grants to our Chapter network when fundraising projects support local non-profits.
SMALL CREDIT UNION GRANTS
The Foundation provides grants for professional development as well as technology and capital improvement projects, enhancing small credit union success.
DISASTER RELIEF COORDINATION
We lend a hand in times of need for our local, national and international credit union communities. Our Disaster Relief Fund supports Carolina-based employees and volunteers following a disaster.
FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT GRANTS
In partnership with Vizo Financial, credit unions can receive funding to support financial education.
Programs and Partnerships
AWARDS GALA
We recognize our credit union heroes and organizations that exemplify our ideals. The Foundation celebrates those who make our industry truly remarkable each year through this flagship fundraising event.
PRINCIPLES & PHILOSOPHY CONFERENCE
We take a deep dive into the Eight Cooperative Principles and focus on the importance of social responsibility, hosted in collaboration with the League and the CUDEs of the Carolinas.
FRIEND OF THE FOUNDATION MEMBERSHIP
Individuals join the Foundation for a $15 annual fee to increase the Foundation’s philanthropic impact. Member benefits include access to programs and resources to grow and thrive financially.
CUS TOGETHER CONFERENCES
The Foundation benefits from the proceeds of the Employees and Leadership Conferences held each year in Myrtle Beach, SC.
WORKSHOPS
We conduct and collaborate with industry partners hosting learning opportunities around our history & principles, DEI, empathy, social impact and financial well-being.
CAROLINAS CUP & VICTORY JUNCTION
Credit unions have invested more than $5M to support Victory Junction in the last 20 years. TruStage partners with the Foundation to host the annual Carolinas Cup fundraiser supporting Victory Junction.
FICEP PROGRAM
The Financial Counseling Certification Program empowers employees to guide members to financial security. The Foundation’s partnership with the League makes the program more accessible and affordable for credit unions.
FINANCIAL WELL-BEING FOR ALL
We offer financial coaching and other tools at no cost to all credit union employees and members through our partnership with GreenPath, BALANCE and Zogo.