The cuts have already affected the credit union balance sheet and will continue to do so in the future. Monetary policy and today’s rate environment will shape the economy, the credit union industry, and the lives of members and communities for years to come. The credit union mission shines in moments like this, where the cooperative model makes a difference.

The following Market Snapshot and Two-Year Financial Statement provides a useful measuring stick for assessing industry data and incorporating those insights into planning for the quarters and years to come.

Credit Union Performance Reports

Callahan’s Market Snapshot and Two-Year Financial Statement equip credit union leaders with the tools they need to be more informed stewards of members’ money during these changing times.

Quarterly Performance Webinar

The Latest Insights – Available On Your Schedule: Callahan & Associates takes a look at third quarter credit union performance trends, exploring where the movement stands today and where opportunities lie for tomorrow. Watch it now. 

Quarterly Performance Coverage

The K-Shaped Recovery And An Economy Divided: Inflation, debt, and income inequality are fueling a K-shaped, post-pandemic recovery, widening the gap between different economic segments and challenging lower-income households. Read more.

Members Are On The Move. Credit Unions Are Here For Them. Accelerating membership growth signals the increasing influence of credit unions amid evolving interest rate trends and economic challenges. Read more.

3 Ways Falling Rates Are Poised To Impact Credit Union Balance Sheets Falling interest rates are changing the game for credit unions. Explore how potential shifts in lending, savings, and margins are set to affect the bottom line. Read more.

How Asset Size Shapes Credit Union Performance Across 3 Metrics: Explore how credit union size influences growth, lending, and efficiency. Read more.

Let’s Review Your  Performance Together. Join Callahan for a complimentary 1:1 session to analyze your performance reports using key insights from second quarter performance data. We’ll benchmark your credit union against two to three peer groups of your choice and provide a detailed report of our findings at the end of the session to help your team make informed strategic decisions. Request now.

See You Next Quarter! CreditUnions.com updates this page with fresh credit union data every quarter, so don’t forget to come back for insights into the fourth quarter of 2025.

The post Quarterly Market Snapshot And Two-Year Financial Statement appeared first on CreditUnions.com.

Callahan clients can access the full version of this article right now on the client portal. Read it today.

The difference between a credit union with $50 million, $500 million, or $5 billion in assets goes beyond dollars and cents. Asset size can shape how efficiently credit unions operate, how they lend, and ultimately how they serve their members. In an industry where the largest institutions hold a disproportionately large share of assets, looking only at overall averages risks masking how mid‑sized and smaller institutions perform.

For a more nuanced look at performance, look across not only key metrics but asset sizes. Comparing peer groups defined by asset size uncovers patterns and trade‑offs that rarely show up in aggregated industry reports — giving credit union leaders a clearer picture of where institutions at different size levels excel or struggle.

MEMBER GROWTH
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: CALLAHAN & ASSOCIATES

With the ability to leverage scale and resources, larger credit unions consistently attract more members. Smaller institutions — lacking the scale to keep up with digital banking innovations — have fallen behind, and rural communities — where smaller credit unions tend to concentrate — have increasingly lost population to more urban centers. Yet, these defenders of financial health continue to provide crucial product and service offerings tailored specifically to their membership’s needs, emphasizing the vital role they play in their communities.

Book Your Free Performance Analysis Session. Develop a clear picture of your credit union’s performance with a complimentary scorecard from Callahan & Associates. Fueled with your desired KPIs plus a few new ones we might suggest, you’ll be in a better position to benchmark against desired peer groups and share findings with your board. Contact Callahan today.

LOAN PORTFOLIO
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: CALLAHAN & ASSOCIATES

Examining the loan mix across asset tiers shows how credit unions fulfill the borrowing needs of their members. Smaller institutions carry a higher share of auto and consumer loans; mortgages and other long-term products comprise a smaller piece of the portfolio. As credit unions grow, expanded infrastructure, lending capacity, and product depth allow them to keep more of this activity in-house, increasing the share of mortgages, credit cards, and commercial loans in their portfolios.

Commercial lending peaks in the middle asset tiers where institutional bandwidth and local business relationships meet. It is a perfect snapshot of the credit union ecosystem in motion.

EFFICIENCY RATIO
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: CALLAHAN & ASSOCIATES

Smaller credit unions carry heavier operational loads because each branch and every employee represents a meaningful share of the total. Larger cooperatives spread their expenses across bigger membership bases and deeper balance sheets, giving them space to operate more efficiently.

Growing institutions are fueling a steady, systemwide march toward lower expense ratios, but that growth does present intangible costs. The branches and employees that make up a meaningful share of total expenses at smaller credit unions also make up a meaningful share of the member experience. Those personal connections can shrink even as fields of membership and institutions expand — it’s a delicate balance credit unions must strike.

Ready To Read The Full Story? Callahan clients may access this exclusive content within the client portal. Read more about these ratios, then dive deeper into lending performance, fee strategies, operating performance, and more. Not yet a client but looking for expert insights to help you adapt to change, develop your organization’s leaders, and stay at the forefront of industry trends? Connect with our team to learn more.

The post How Asset Size Shapes Credit Union Performance Across 3 Metrics appeared first on CreditUnions.com.

Callahan clients can access the full version of this article right now on the client portal. Read it today.

For the first time in more than two years, credit unions reported a slight acceleration in annual member growth to the tune of 2.0% year-over-year. Although credit unions welcome new members every day, the rate at which these members have joined has been slowing — until now.

Credit unions reported a gain of 2.7 million net new members from the third quarter of 2024 to the third quarter of 2025. What’s more, they’ve added 920,402 members in the past three months alone, nearly twice the number gained during the second quarter of 2025.

Relationships Support Membership Growth

Core membership often starts on the deposit side, where helping members safeguard their assets is a positive first step toward building a trusting financial relationship.

Reflecting this trust, annual share growth at credit unions is slightly higher than the national personal savings rate, indicating that members are depositing their excess funds with credit unions at a slightly higher rate than at other financial institutions. Of note, bank customers are slightly more likely to invest funds in the stock market or other securities, whereas credit union members are more apt to build a savings-account-based nest egg. Still, this is a strong sign for credit union-member relationships.

CORE DEPOSIT GROWTH VS. SHARE CERTIFICATE GROWTH
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: CALLAHAN & ASSOCIATES

In addition to attracting members through deposits, credit unions are also welcoming members through lending, especially via real estate loans as new refinancing opportunities from late-year rate cuts renew member interest in credit union offerings. Notable, however, is that a rise in both HELOCs and credit card balances could indicate members are struggling and turning to credit unions for help.

At a time when the K-shaped economy overwhelmingly benefits high-wealth households, credit union membership growth suggests a renewed trust in institutions that prioritize people, purpose, and community. This is credit unions’ time to shine.

Ready To Read The Full Story? Callahan clients may access this exclusive content within the client portal. Read more about core deposits, then dive deeper into what increased membership means for the lending portfolio. Not yet a client but looking for expert insights to help you adapt to change, develop your organization’s leaders, and stay at the forefront of industry trends? Connect with our team to learn more.

The post Members Are On The Move. Credit Unions Are Here For Them. appeared first on CreditUnions.com.

Callahan clients can access the full version of this article right now on the client portal. Read it today.

As the Federal Reserve continues to adjust its benchmark rates, credit unions across the country are watching closely. Lower interest rates are supposed to make borrowing more attractive and saving less so, but does this theory hold up in the real world?

The Federal Reserve typically lowers rates in response to economic weakness, and that uncertainty can make it hard to predict how households will react. Sometimes, lower rates are enough to jump-start lending and spending. Other times, they merely help steady the ship, preventing a slide into recession.

For credit unions, the key is balancing opportunity and risk. So, what might the future hold if interest rates continue to fall?

Loan Originations Will Continue To Rebound

In the third quarter of 2025, loan originations increased 17.7% year-over-year, a striking rebound and the highest level of originations through the third quarter since 2022. If more interest rate cuts are on the horizon, it stands to reason that demand for both new mortgages and refinances will increase.

YEAR-TO-DATE LOAN ORIGINATIONS
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

Member Appetite For Share Certificates Will Decrease

With a lower dividend rate, fewer members will want to park their savings in share certificates. Instead, they’ll gravitate toward more liquid options like regular shares or money market accounts. Members might also withdraw large portions of savings to chase the potentially inflation-beating yields of stocks or crypto.

The Net Interest Margin Will Move Closer To The Operating Expense Ratio

If low rates push members to refinance existing loans and take out new ones (in essence, repricing the loan portfolio) and liquidity pressure keeps the cost of funds from falling, then the spread between interest income and interest expense will shrink, compressing margins and creating headwinds on earnings.

Ready To Read The Full Story? Callahan clients may access this exclusive content within the client portal. Read it today. Not yet a client but looking for expert insights to help you adapt to change, develop your organization’s leaders, and stay at the forefront of industry trends? Connect with our team to learn more. 

The post 3 Ways Falling Rates Are Poised To Impact Credit Union Balance Sheets appeared first on CreditUnions.com.

What’s Moving the Credit Union Industry This Quarter? Find Out Here

Join Callahan & Associates for a look at 3Q25 credit union performance trends, exploring where the credit union movement stands and where additional opportunities lie.

Why Watch?

You’ll gain deeper insights into key financial and operational metrics — including growth, lending, shares, member relationships, and more — providing context to support strategic decisions, board discussions, and more.

You’ll walk away with:

• Clear Indicators Of Industry Strength And Risk: Uncover where credit unions are excelling — and where the pressure is building.

• Strategic Benchmarks To Inform Decision-Making: Measure your performance against industry-wide trends to identify opportunities for growth or improvement.

• Economic Context Behind The Data: Understand the “why” behind the trends — including the latest shifts in economic conditions and member behaviors shaping today’s environment.

• Insights From A Credit Union Success Story: Hear from an industry leader whose institution is driving inspiring initiatives that make meaningful impact on the members and communities it serves.

We’ll be joined by our special guest speakers:

• Brent Rempe, CEO of First Alliance
• ALM First

Download the slide deck here

<<Trendwatch 2Q25

Timestamps

• ALM First Market Update – 2:10
• 3Q Credit Union Performance Part 1 – 15:41
• Credit Unions In Action Part 1 – 27:35
• 3Q Credit Union Performance Part 2 – 29:29
• Credit Unions In Action Part 2 – 33:10
• First Alliance Credit Union – 35:01
• 3Q Credit Union Performance Part 3 –  54:18
• Takeaways and Closing Thoughts – 1:09:58

The post Trendwatch 3Q25 appeared first on CreditUnions.com.

Top-Level Takeaways

• The Fed executed a 25-basis-point rate cut on Oct. 29, but forward guidance was less clear.
• Fed releases and public speeches highlight a sharp divide between FOMC hawks and doves regarding inflation and labor market risks.
• Headlines have brought pockets of credit markets into focus, including increased lending by commercial banks to non-bank financial institutions.

The FOMC moved forward with another 25-basis-point rate cut on Oct. 29. That cut was expected, but the forward outlook is a bit murkier.

Heading into the meeting, the fed funds futures market was pricing 100% probability of a December rate cut, followed by another 100 basis points of cuts in 2026. In a speech before the annual National Association for Business Economics (NABE) conference on Oct. 14, Jerome Powell had an opportunity to push back on market pricing, but the chair of the Federal Reserve instead focused on the role and size of the Fed’s balance sheet.

Powell then struck a notably different tone at the press conference following the Oct. 29 FOMC meeting.

“In the committee’s discussions at this meeting, there were strongly differing views about how to proceed in December,” Powell said in his opening remarks. “A further reduction in the policy rate at the December meeting is not a foregone conclusion. Far from it.”

The updated Summary of Economic Projections (SEP) released following the Sept. 17 FOMC meeting revealed a wide range of opinions on where the federal funds rate would end 2025, as well as the long-run neutral rate. In the speeches that followed that meeting, more dovish Fed leaders expressed concern that recent labor market softening was a harbinger for weaker GDP and reduced inflation in the months ahead. On the other hand, Fed hawks characterized the September cut — and the likely cut on Oct. 29 — as insurance against further weakness in the labor market. At the same time, they expressed hesitancy about doing much more policy easing amid ongoing inflation uncertainty.

This debate was clearly alive and well during the Oct. 29 meeting, which Powell even suggested should be clearer when the minutes are released. During the press conference, Powell said he believes most of the slowdown in hiring is more attributable to supply-side factors (labor participation and immigration) as opposed to the demand side of the equation (business investment). Fed policy typically has less impact on labor supply and more on labor demand. This is likely a critical factor in the current outlook of Fed hawks.

Visit ALM First to read more about the latest economic data and overall monthly market trends.

Jason Haley joined ALM First in 2008 and is the firm’s chief investment officer. He heads ALM First’s Investment Management Group (IMG), which is responsible for leading the investment process and investment theme development. Haley also oversees all capital markets activities, including portfolio management, trading, market research and commentary, and execution of hedging and funding strategies for the firm’s depository clients. He holds an MBA with a concentration in finance and a BBA with a concentration in marketing, both from The University of Mississippi.

Not an offer for investment advisory services. This content is provided for general educational information and market commentary purposes only.

The post Forward Guidance Less Clear After October Rate Cut appeared first on CreditUnions.com.

Although most top-level metrics are not signaling a recession, significant evidence points to a K-shaped economy, one in which some Americans — especially those tangential to the AI-fueled tech and finance sectors — are doing well while others — including middle- or low-income consumers most severely squeezed by tariff-driven inflation and government layoffs — struggle to make ends meet.

In times like these, members look to financial institutions they can trust, who look out for the best interest of accountholders, not shareholders. Third quarter data show credit unions are making steady, impactful progress in serving their members.

Takeaway 1: Member Growth Ticks Up

MEMBER GROWTH
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

• Growing membership is the surest sign that credit unions are providing value to Americans. It shows the industry is offering in-demand products and services when for-profit institutions might be pulling back to reduce risk.
• Total industry membership growth rose to 2.2% in the third quarter, reversing a years-long trend of decelerating growth. Even more, the industry’s ongoing retreat from indirect lending suggests these additional members are poised to conduct extensive, engaged business with their institution.
• Indirect lending at credit unions dipped below 19.9% of total lending, the lowest since the end of 2021. Renewed mortgage demand helped this trend, but the drop still reflects a stronger “core” member base.

Key Takeaway 2: Loan Originations Rise Amid Rate Cuts

QUARTERLY LOAN ORIGINATIONS AND 10-YEAR TREASURY YIELD
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

• The Federal Reserve cut rates in September and again in October, lowering the federal funds rate to 3.75% – 4.00%. In anticipation of these reductions, the 10-Year Treasury rate dropped and borrowing became cheaper.
• Members correspondingly increased borrowing in the third quarter. Originations in real estate, where lending was previously dormant, were up by 24.2% year-over-year.
• Lower rates tend to drive refinancing, an area in which credit unions thrive. As rates continue to drop, expect loan demand to further increase in that relationship-driven piece of the portfolio.
• Consumer loan originations were up 13.6% year-over-year; strong performance that increased tariffs and vehicle prices could be hindering.

Trendwatch 3Q25. Explore third quarter performance trends and learn about their impact on the industry today with Callahan & Associates. Callahan hosts and industry guest presenters highlight where credit unions are excelling, where challenges are emerging, and how peers are responding. Don’t wait to gain key benchmarks, strategic takeaways, and insights to navigate the rest of 2025. Watch On-Demand today.

Takeaway 3: Core Members Are Deepening Relationships

AVERAGE MEMBER RELATIONSHIP
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

• • The average member relationship remained mostly flat in the third quarter.
  • Despite the fact the average share balance increased by $424, or 3.2%, year-over-year, it actually fell $38 quarter-over-quarter amid increased consumer spending.
  • The average loan balance increased $31quarter-over-quarter thanks mainly to a 6.0% uptick in mortgages as members took advantage of falling interest rates.
  • As more members join the movement, it can become difficult for credit unions to identify the needs of members at both the top and the bottom of the wealth bracket. Credit unions would do well to work with members on an individual basis to uncover the right opportunities.

Takeaway 4: Delinquency Rises Across All Product Types

DELINQUENCY BY PRODUCT TYPE
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

• Following fairly normal seasonality patterns, total delinquency rose 4 basis points in the third quarter to reach 0.94%.
• Credit card delinquency exceeded 2% for the first time in 2025; still, it is lower than where it was in the third quarter of 2024. A similar pattern is evident in used auto, where delinquency has risen during the year but is lower than the third quarter of 2024. Trends in consumer loan repayment indicate members are struggling but showing resiliency in the face of tariffs and inflation.
• In commercial and residential real estate, delinquency has inched up from this time last year. This is particularly worrying in residential real estate, which is a traditionally stable loan type. The bump could be signaling a return to post-2008 behavior, when borrowers walked away from their mortgage loans before others.
• Net charge-offs fell 2 basis points quarterly to 0.76%. First mortgage net charge-offs remained almost non-existent as credit unions work with members around these mortgages.
• A drop in asset quality suggests rockier roads for members and provides an opportunity for credit unions to guide and support.

Takeaway 5: Net Interest Margin Growth Outpaces Operating Expense Growth

NET INTEREST MARGIN VS. OPERATING EXPENSE RATIO
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

• Credit union margins took a sizable jump, hitting 3.38% on net, driven by a rise in interest income while expenses held flat. The rise in income came mainly from increased lending demand as credit unions converted more shares into higher-yielding mortgages. The cost of funds held steady 2.06%.
• Operating expenses grew slightly to 3.11%, mirroring the pace of the past few years as inflation hits the costs of doing business. All told, ROA is healthy at 0.81%
• High margins, driven by rate repricing, provide credit unions with a clear operational advantage in the near term. Interest margins have not outpaced operating expenses by such a large gap in this millennium.
• Credit unions have flexibility to help struggling members without risking long-term stability; however, rate cuts are likely to bring down interest margins in the mid-to-long term while operating costs continue an inflation-driven upward trend.

Let’s Review Your Credit Union Performance Data Together. Join a Callahan advisor for a complimentary 1:1 session to analyze your performance reports. We’ll benchmark your credit union against two to three peer groups of your choice and provide a detailed report of our findings at the end of the session to help your team make informed strategic decisions. Request your free session today.

See You Next Quarter! CreditUnions.com updates this page with the freshest FirstLook credit union data every quarter, so don’t forget to come back for insights into the fourth quarter of 2025.

The post 5 Takeaways From Trendwatch appeared first on CreditUnions.com.

According to this quarter’s FirstLook performance figures, what’s notable about third quarter performance? And what does it suggest about today’s trends?

11.05.25 Update

• Total loans are set to grow 4.6% year-over-year, fueled by residential other real estate (HELOCs) with growth of 16.2% and commercial real estate with 11.9%. First mortgage balances are on pace to grow 5.1%. This is a faster annual rate than last quarter and could be a sign that rate cuts are reinvigorating the mortgage market.
• Credit card balances are up, 3.6% year-over-year, but overall consumer lending is down. Auto is down 0.6%, driven by a 2.8% decrease in new auto lending. Other, miscellaneous loans — personal, boat, RV, etc. — are also down 0.2% annually. Tariffs likely play a role here as  high prices weigh on tight budgets; however, expected cuts to the federal funds rate could drive more growth in the future.
• Share balance growth is tracking at 5.2% year-over-year. This is the highest rate since the third quarter of 2022. Growth in every share type is up annually; however, regular share growth is on track to drop quarter-over-quarter. Money market and certificates — especially certificates with less than 12-month maturity terms — are reporting the fastest annual growth, at 8.6% and 7.1%, respectively. Quarter-over-quarter, the  2.3% growth in certificates leads all other share types. Rate cuts — both past and potential — could be leading savers to lock in higher rates to ensure better returns and near-term liquidity.
• Thus far, the cost of funds is holding steady from last quarter. That could change when loan demand heats up if institutions start to compete for deposits via expensive certificate promotions.

Money market and certificates — especially certificates with less than 12-month maturity terms — are reporting the fastest annual growth. Past and potential rate cuts could be leading savers to lock in higher rates to ensure better returns and near-term liquidity.

As of Nov. 05, 2025, Callahan's FirstLook program represents more than 99% of the industry.

10.31.25 Update

• Analysts at Callahan & Associates put annual asset growth at 3.7%. That’s a slight pick up from 3.6% annual growth one year ago. Loans are on track to grow 4.3%; share growth is set to reach 5.1%, both up from the second quarter.
• Meanwhile, membership is on track to grow 2.0%, consistent with last quarter’s dampened figure but still representing another 3 million members joining the credit union movement.
• Slower growth aligns with credit unions’ strategic decision to pull back from indirect lending, given that indirect members tend to hold just the one loan with a credit union and can pull focus from core members. FirstLook data shows indirect lending is down to 19.9% of total loans.
• The move to refocus on core members appears to be paying off. The average member relationship — as defined by the average loan balance per member plus the average share balance per member — is tracking up slightly from last quarter to $24,329 as of Sept. 30.
• Share draft penetration also is tracking up — 18 basis points from last quarter to 63.1% as of the third quarter. That 63.1% of credit union members hold a draft account is notable because the metric is a common proxy for member engagement.
• Asset quality has continued to deteriorate slightly. Total delinquency is on track to increase 4 basis points quarter-over-quarter; net charge-offs appear to have dropped by 1 basis point compared to midyear. The rise in delinquency is present across every loan type except for commercial loans. Take note: Worsening asset quality allows credit unions to look for opportunities to help members keep their vehicles, make day-to-day purchases with credit cards, stay in their homes, and much more.
• ROA, which is currently at 0.80%, is tracking up 4 basis points from last quarter and 12 basis points from the third quarter of 2024. The net interest margin is up 3 basis points from last quarter to 3.4% as credit unions continue to reprice existing products.
• Net income growth continues to grow at a fast clip, 21.7% year-over-year. Interest income is the driving force here and is up 21 basis points year-over-year as a percent of assets. Interest on loans is set to grow 8.8% since the third quarter of 2024; however, interest income might start to drop sooner rather than later given the recent cuts to the federal funds rate.

The move to refocus on core members appears to be paying off. Average loan and average shares balances per member both are up; thus, the average member relationship is tracking slightly up slightly from last quarter to $24,329.

As of Oct. 31, 2025, Callahan's FirstLook program represents more than 70% of the industry.

Trendwatch 3Q25. Explore third quarter performance trends and learn about their impact on the industry today with Callahan & Associates. Callahan hosts and industry guest presenters highlight where credit unions are excelling, where challenges are emerging, and how peers are responding. Don’t wait to gain key benchmarks, strategic takeaways, and insights to navigate the rest of 2025. Watch On-Demand today.

CreditUnions.com updates this page with the freshest FirstLook credit union performance data every quarter, so don’t forget to come back for more insights.

The post Don’t Wait For Data. FirstLook Analysis Is Available Today. appeared first on CreditUnions.com.

“Affordable homeownership is one of the keys to financial success,” says Tim Mislansky, president and CEO of Wright-Patt Credit Union. “When we can help members become homeowners, we can help them build wealth, strengthen families, and create lasting communities.”

That commitment to community impact is backed by market leadership. According to Mislansky, WPCU is one of the two largest purchase-money lenders in the Dayton area.

“More than half the mortgages we make are to first-time buyers,” Mislansky says. “That’s possible because of our willingness to teach people about homeownership, our unique products, and our people.”

That mission-first mindset sparked the creation of WPCU’s Housing Collective, a cross-departmental effort that unites lending, financial education, and philanthropy under the banner of expanding the credit union’s reach and relevance in the housing space. As the team explored new ways to serve, its focus turned outward — toward collaboration. That’s when the WPCU Sunshine Community Fund, Wright-Patt’s 501(c)(3) charitable arm, connected with the Pathways to Homeownership program, a local initiative already working to increase access to affordable housing in Dayton.

A Ripple That Became A Wave

The Pathways to Homeownership initiative began as a response to the devastating 2019 Memorial Day tornadoes that struck the Dayton area. Spearheaded by County Corp, the program primarily sought to address the housing challenges faced by residents in the aftermath. Phases I and II included the construction of 19 homes built and sold by mid-2024, but more funding was needed for the initiative to continue.

Serendipitously, that’s when the WPCU Sunshine Community Fund got involved.

“It all began over lunch with the president of OMEGA CDC,” Mislansky says. “As we talked about our shared goals, we realized we had the ability to create a better future in Northwest Dayton, where more than 30,000 WPCU members live.”

Former Sunshine Community Fund executive director Tracy Szarzi-Fors championed the foundation’s involvement, which included making a crucial investment of $1.3 million to launch Phase III. Mislansky credits partner credibility for WPCU’s confidence in making such a significant early investment.

“We seek organizations that share our values, are well-respected, and have a proven record of success,” he says. “The model we built stands on the foundation of past work, incorporating key lessons to create sustainable housing opportunities in Northwest Dayton.”

Working in partnership with Learn to Earn Dayton, Omega’s Hope Center for Families, and the HomeOwnership Center, WPCU aims to build an additional 30 new homes in the next three years.

For Ivy Glover, Wrigth-Patt Credit Union’s director of community and social impact, the joint effort to revitalize Northwest Dayton is as much a personal journey as a professional project.

“I grew up in that neighborhood,” she say. “My teacher lived down the street; my doctor was two blocks over. One of the goals is to restore that sense of community and accountability where people know their neighbors and look out for one another. That’s what Pathways is trying to bring back.”

Construction of the first five homes began this summer, and the homes are expected to be move-in ready by November. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom modular homes will be sold at market price, but eligible buyers will receive down payment and closing cost assistance in addition to other resources.

“I tell my team all the time: Every drop makes a ripple, but some make a much bigger one,” Glover says. “This is a big ripple moment.”

A model of the three-bedroom modular homes under construction through the Pathways to Homeownership initiative.

Ivy Glover, Wrigth-Patt Credit Union’s director of community and social impact, says modular homes allow for multiple builds at once in a controlled environment.

The Pathways to Homeownership initiative doesn’t just include new builds. Rehabilitated properties are included in the program, too.

Far From Just A Financial Contribution

Wright-Patt’s role didn’t stop at writing a check. The credit union embedded itself in the process, committing time, talent, and resources to make homeownership a reality.

“We didn’t just cut a check,” Glover says. “We committed to making homeowners. That meant building education programs, seeking more resources, and wrapping additional community support around the effort.”

The credit union developed a five-week homeownership readiness program complete with one-on-one coaching, financial education, and sessions through the HomeOwnership Center, with a dedicated program coordinator facilitating both group and individual engagement.

WPCU piloted the program this summer and launched the first full cohort in October. By the end of next year, WPCU aims to graduate at least 120 participants. Because the program is in the early stages, Glover doesn’t have lessons learned or hindsight to share yet; however, she does have one meaningful takeaway.

“I wish we’d started the education piece sooner,” she says.

Meanwhile, the credit union’s Housing Collective also has worked to develop affordable mortgage options and is exploring a deposit solution dedicated to home saving.

“Together, this collective effort really shows our commitment to housing access and equity for all,” Glover says.

Building Momentum And Sustainability

To complete Phase III, Wright-Patt Credit Union and its partners must raise an additional $2.75 million, which is no small number even with multiple organizations working together.

“Our partners, who are very experienced from phases one and two, know the cadence by which funding needs to arrive to keep construction moving,” Glover says. “The key is aligning the timing of building homes, finishing them, and having buyers ready to purchase because those sales fund the next phase.”

Glover, who today also serves as the WPCU Sunshine Community Fund’s interim executive director, says the foundation raises money through credit union employee contributions, member donations, fundraising, and development team grants.

“We’re also exploring, although nothing is finalized, some turn-based grant models that tie funding directly to residents, which could add a layer of accountability and sustainability,” she says.

Mislansky adds that although WPCU provided the initial funding, sustaining the project will require a communitywide effort.

“Our investment helps fund the first five homes as a proof of concept,” he says. “We believe this, along with continued fundraising and collective storytelling from all the partners, will lead to the additional funding needed to complete the next phases.”

For Mislansky, the initiative has underscored the importance of shared values and consistent communication.

“Every organization involved has a lot going on, and this project is just one of many ways we’re all trying to make a difference,” he says. “Staying aligned on the mission and regularly checking back to the original plan has been crucial.”

For Glover, it’s been powerful to watch the contributions of WPCU members and employees make such a direct impact on the community.

“It’s surreal to be part of something that is literally rebuilding the community I grew up in,” the Dayton native says.

Mislansky agrees, adding that the long-term impact extends far beyond the physical homes.

“The neighborhoods we’re focused on have been hit hard by redlining, job loss, and predatory lending for decades,” he says. “Over 70% of residents rent and more than 40% are housing-cost burdened. We believe this program can change lives, revitalize communities, and demonstrate what’s possible when mission-driven organizations work together.”

The post Wright-Patt Turns Purpose Into Property For First-Time Homebuyers appeared first on CreditUnions.com.

This year, the 2025 World Series features a classic battle royal between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays. The introduction of a Canadian team presents a new challenge for determining a statistical standout, but the analysts at Callahan & Associates are eager to take a swing.

Using credit union performance data from cooperatives in the Greater Los Angeles region to represent the Dodgers and Niagara and Erie counties in New York to represent the Blue Jays, Callahan analysts have chosen a home run hero. Data from credit unions across the United States is also weighing in to represent impartial observers everywhere. “Impartial,” truly.

GAME 1: Efficiency Ratio

Like most sports, baseball is about finding an edge in the margins. How can a team most effectively spend its dollars? Finding a diamond in the rough who turns into a regular contributor can give a team a serious edge.

Credit unions are no different, maximizing efficiency per dollar spent is key to success. The observation peer group (and Toronto) holds the edge here, spending $0.70 per every dollar earned.

EFFICIENCY RATIO
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

Although the Dodgers’ hefty payroll isn’t exactly the epitome of Moneyball, the team has found value in Japanese-born players such as closer Roki Sasaki and starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. It also has a guy who can hit and pitch at an elite level — looking at you, Shohei Ohtani.

On the other hand, the Blue Jays has enticed production from star players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. as well as enjoyed great postseason success from lesser names like third baseman Ernie Clement. And according to the data, the impartial observers outperform both regions in efficiency.

Go ahead and mark that against the Dodgers.

SCORE: Toronto 1, Los Angeles 0

GAME 2: Revenue Per FTE

Unlike other sports, one player cannot take over a baseball game. A great starting pitcher can go a long way, but they still need their bullpen to close it out.

Similarly, a great hitter needs their teammates to get on base and drive in their run. Thus, depth is important. Credit unions are no different, it takes a well-rounded staff to achieve success.

REVENUE PER FTE
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

Credit unions in the greater Los Angeles region bring in more revenue per full time employee than those in the Toronto tag team. Chalk this one up for the mighty Dodgers.

SCORE: Toronto 1, Los Angeles 1

GAME 3: Average Dividend Per Member

Every die-hard fan of any team wants their organization to spend top dollar on the best players, but there are different ways to build a roster. Ultimately, what matters is the return fans get from attending games, buying merch, sharing on socials, and more.

Similarly, credit unions want to reward their members’ loyalty.

AVERAGE DIVIDEND PER MEMBER
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

Much like Dodger fans, credit union members in the Greater Los Angeles region enjoy a nice return on their financial investment. Credit unions there returned $333 in annual dividends per member. That’s greater than both the Niagara and Erie region and the rest of the country.

Can the Dodgers be stopped?

SCORE: Los Angeles 2, Toronto 1

GAME 4: Total Auto Loan Growth

Although major leaguers mostly fly from city to city, baseball is still a game of miles. In the minors, being a mighty road warrior that can grind through long bus rides, packed schedules, and gritty transit days is integral to season success.

No matter the method of transportation, travel time provides players the opportunity to sharpen their minds and grow closer as a team. These intangible off-the-field benefits should not be ignored when determining a winning season.

Travel is an integral part of most members’ lives, too, particularly in the United States’ automobile-driven society. Credit unions know this. Auto lending isn’t just a number on a balance sheet; it’s an indication of how the institution is helping members move through life’s journey.

AUTO LOAN GROWTH
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

Here, credit unions as a lending block demonstrate more resilience in their portfolios, with auto lending decreasing at a slower pace than in the individual regions. Credit unions in Niagara and Erie counties, too, offer a reminder that endurance, on the road or in the data, is what makes a true contender.

With that, Toronto ties the series up!

SCORE: Los Angeles 2, Toronto 2

GAME 5: Total Loan Delinquency

When a hitter steps to the plate, they need to have good timing. Swing too early or too late and they’ll miss entirely or hit a foul.

Likewise, credit unions rely on good timing in loan repayments. If a member goes too long without making a payment, they’ll fall into delinquency. Just like a mistimed swing can cost a batter the game, missed payments can cost a member their financial health. For the credit union, delinquencies can throw off their lending rhythm and strike their financials.

TOTAL LOAN DELINQUENCY
FOR U.S. CREDIT UNIONS
SOURCE: Callahan & Associates

Toronto takes the cake here, just barely edging out the Greater Los Angeles area. Credit unions in Niagara and Erie counties pull through with an impressive 0.67% total loan delinquency — the lowest of the three peer groups represented.

SCORE: Toronto 3, Los Angeles 2

And with that, Callahan predicts a great upset: The Toronto Blue Jays will edge out the Los Angeles Dodgers by the thinnest of margins.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Ignore our author’s bias and that the World Series is a best-of-seven. Fact check our math by tuning into Game 1 of the World Series on Oct. 24 and (if necessary) a Game 7 on Nov. 1.

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