Impact/Purpose

Our Purpose page is your central resource to explore strategies that elevate products and services from run-of-the-mill commodities to powerful tools that support members and communities and set credit unions apart from competitors.

Top Impact/Purpose Articles

VSECU Eyes A Green Future In Vermont

Sandwiched between New York, New Hampshire, and Canada, Vermont embraces a fiercely independent spirit that dates back to the 1770s when Ethan Allen’s Green Mountain Boys fought for independence from the British. Home of maple syrup and Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, Vermont was among the first states to outlaw slavery and remains one of

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ELGA Fuels Growth For Areas In Need

The Michigan cooperative is going against the grain of other FIs by serving moderate to low-income members, opening new branches, and tapping CDFI funds to lend to people in need.

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Features

VSECU Eyes A Green Future In Vermont

Sandwiched between New York, New Hampshire, and Canada, Vermont embraces a fiercely independent spirit that dates back to the 1770s when Ethan Allen’s Green Mountain ...
Features

The Budding Cannabis Market In The Green Mountain State

After stepping up to serve medical marijuana dispensaries, VSECU is positioned to lead the state in banking services for an explosion in recreational sales.
Features

The Brave New World Of Green Lending

Energy efficiency loans, zero-carbon goals, underwriting, and strategic partnerships drive lending growth at VSECU.
Features

Making A Community Impact In Vermont And Beyond

Member-directed giving, values-based programs, and the cooperative spirit all guide VSECU’s efforts to leave a positive impact on its community.
Features

A Small But Mighty Response To Payday Lenders And Fintech Competitors

Credit unions are experimenting with employee-sponsored small-dollar loan programs at the urging of Filene and the FINRA Foundation.
Features

ELGA Fuels Growth For Areas In Need

The Michigan cooperative is going against the grain of other FIs by serving moderate to low-income members, opening new branches, and tapping CDFI funds to ...
Callahan Collections

Small Loans Make A Big Impact In New Mexico

Nusenda Credit Union works with community partners to identify and support borrowers shut out of traditional lending.
Features

Arlington Community Sets The PACE For Sustainability

The Virginia cooperative leverages a government-guaranteed loans program to help local business owners make an environmental difference.
Features

What’s In A Name: Vice President Of Strategic Initiatives And Impact

At Together Credit Union, ensuring pillars aren’t silos is at the heart of creating a change culture based on data and collaboration.
Credit Union Industry Commentary

What Is Community Impact? Callahan Has The Data.

Collecting data for the Impact Framework, Callahan & Associates has learned impact varies depending on institution and community — and that’s OK.

CreditUnions.com Top Picks For 2025

The editorial team at Callahan & Associates weighs in on stories that defined 2025 through actionable strategies, meaningful insights, and perspectives that continue to influence the cooperative movement.

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5 Takeaways From Trendwatch

The U.S. economy is throwing up mixed signals, but America’s credit unions are delivering value and, in turn, enjoying deeper relationships, higher originations, and a stronger bottom line.

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