Think there’s no room for creativity in banking? Think again. These stories from the last month reveal a host of new ways credit unions are finding to serve members and make a difference in their communities.

A mentoring experience offered one participant the chance to better understand biases, stand in another person’s shoes, and put DEI principles into action.

A six-week, 1-to-1 mentoring program connects white women in senior leadership positions with up-and-coming black women in the credit union industry to open discussion around the racial divide and gender bias.

Special loan programs at cooperatives across the country address equity, financial deserts, emergency aid, and climate change.

Ivy Glover is one year into making sure DEI is more than just a buzzword at the Buckeye State’s biggest credit union.

GreenState Credit Union has committed $1 billion toward home loans for communities of color. CEO Jeff Disterhoft is rallying the entire industry to take similar steps.

A program at Carolina Foothills FCU targets low-income borrowers with flexible underwriting practices, financial education, and partnerships with public, private, and nonprofit groups.

Emma Hayes brings a career built on a commitment to inclusion and internal development for her new role at SECU.

Rates alone won’t cut it. To remain relevant today, tomorrow, and for years to come, credit unions must make an impact in the lives of their members and communities. These stories featured in the past month of CreditUnions.com show how.

The Connecticut credit union has an in-depth plan for how it plans to help narrow the racial wealth gap and expand access to underbanked consumers.