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.

First mortgage originations at credit unions have risen substantially in the last decade, a period in which median home values have nearly doubled.

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.

The Wyoming-based credit union is testing a program that rewards members for contributing to a fund to help other members more easily afford a down payment on a home.

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

The industry closed out the first quarter with a higher percentage of the total mortgage market, although originations dropped amid decreasing inventories and a broader slowdown in home loan activity.

Larger average mortgage balances have offset the reduced pipeline, and credit unions are holding these loans on their balance sheets at greater rates.

AI, chat bots, autonomous programs, and more are improving member service and back-office efficiency.

Member business lending requires an extra layer of due diligence: appraising the appraisal to help reduce risk.

A new program for first-time mortgage applicants intends to substantially reduce burdens around closing costs.