As the year comes to a close, we often start thinking about our wishes for the new year ahead, contemplating resolutions and anticipating the excitement of a new beginning. We had high hopes for 2020 at this time last year, but it had other things in mind! While the year didn’t go according to anyone’s plan, there were certainly silver linings. As the COVID-19 pandemic gripped the globe, Alberta’s credit unions remained focused on the communities they serve, rallying around their members and increasing support during this exceptional time.
Here are just a few highlights from the past year that showcase how Alberta’s credit unions have contributed to the health of our communities:
Alberta Central Donates to Calgary Seniors Resource Society
Despite not being able to host its usual charitable events this year, Alberta Central – the central banking facility for Alberta’s credit unions – delivered thousands of dollars worth of gift cards as part of their commitment to vulnerable groups in Alberta.
Servus Feel Good Movement™
In May 2020, Servus Credit Union launched the Servus Feel Good Movement, giving away more than a $1 million in donations to deserving community organizations and $100,000 in gifts to individuals, non-profit organizations and businesses as part of their community nomination program.
The Lethbridge Angel Tree Campaign
1st Choice Savings and Credit Union has partnered with the Lethbridge Angel Tree to accept new toys and cash donations at six southern Alberta branches, and make Christmas gifts possible to more than 2,500 children each year.
Big Future Innovation Grant
To support our local economy and help support businesses in our communities, Alberta Central, the central banking facility for Alberta’s credit unions launched the Big Future Innovation Grant — an opportunity for two Alberta-based businesses to receive $20,000 to propel innovation and power growth. Applications are under review, and the winners will be announced in early 2021!
Local Servus branch donates $5,000 to the Santa Claus Fund
Servus Credit Union in Medicine Hat made a financial donation to the Santa Claus Fund non-profit, which purchases gifts for families seeking support during the holidays.
Lakeland Credit Union donates $100,000 to local food banks
To help curb food shortages caused by COVID-19 and provide immediate, tangible support for the communities they serve, Lakeland Credit Union recently donated $100,000 to be shared between the Cold Lake and Bonnyville food banks in their region.
Class of 2020: Own Your Financial Future
High school graduates were given the opportunity to win one of three $2,000 prizes by entering Credit Union of Alberta’s Class of 2020: Own Your Financial Future contest. Contestants were asked to apply by posting an Instagram video demonstrating what they would do with the prize should they win, and were judged in three categories: Innovation, Championing Change, and Creativity.
ABCU Credit Union donates $12,500 to local food banks
The Beaumont Community Charitable Foundation donated $5,000 to the Leduc & District Food Bank and $7,500 to the Edmonton Food Bank to support the Life Skills Learning and Beyond Food programs. These donations help low income individuals move forward with important life skills including free employment assistance, English and math upgrading, budget advice, personal counselling and information on affordable housing.
Operation Christmas Child
Adapting to COVID-19 restrictions saw this credit union come together to give to others; in lieu of their annual Christmas party, Christian Credit Union came together as a team to collect donations and pack over 30 boxes in support of Operation Christmas Child.
Credit Unions of Alberta and our partners will always be committed to our members and the communities we serve. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see more community highlights. And if your values are in line with ours, maybe you should consider a credit union account!