Foundation strategic plan focuses on impact and engagement
Published by: Kim Connor
January 8, 2025 | Ohio Credit Union Foundation
Since its establishment in 1997, the Ohio Credit Union Foundation (OCUF) has been a powerful force for good, transforming the lives of individuals and families in the communities served by credit unions. This mission will continue as the Foundation takes a bold step forward with a new business plan approved by the Foundation Board last November.
This forward-thinking plan focuses on three objectives: widespread OCUF awareness, expanded community impact, and sustainable financial fuel. These priorities will guide OCUF’s efforts to empower communities and strengthen the Credit Union Movement across Ohio.
Foundation impact
The Foundation has always existed to support credit unions and their communities by focusing on financial education, social responsibility, professional development, and disaster relief.
The Foundation will continue to recognize the profound impact of financial strain on Ohioans’ overall well-being and remain committed to promoting financial empowerment within credit union communities. The new strategy identifies concrete goals to enhance financial literacy, expand access to financial services, and strengthen credit union resilience by focusing grants in these opportunity areas:
- Inclusion Grants: These grants enable credit unions or Credit Union Outreach Alliances to implement programs that increase access to affordable financial services and products for low-income individuals and marginalized communities.
- Financial Education Grants: These grants enable credit unions or Credit Union Outreach Alliances to implement programs that provide financial education to their communities, members, local schools, or other diverse populations.
- Professional Development Grants: These grants allow credit union employees and volunteers to become more knowledgeable on critical issues affecting their credit unions’ operation and performance.
- Ohio Disaster Relief Grants: These grants help credit unions, their members, and communities following a catastrophic event.
For 28 years, the Foundation has channeled more than $4.6 million in grants into Ohio communities. The new grant strategy builds on that legacy, ensuring the Foundation remains a steadfast partner in improving lives through credit unions.
Looking ahead
At the heart of this plan is OCUF’s unwavering commitment to promoting financial wellness.
As OCUF embarks on this exciting new chapter, you are invited to learn more about the Foundation’s new vision, mission, and impact plan at www.OhioCreditUnionFoundation.org. Together, we can amplify the power of credit unions and make a lasting difference in Ohioans’ lives.
Also, mark your calendar for an important webinar on Jan. 28. The program will review plan highlights and how they impact future grant requests. Register today and reach out to Heather Winner, Grants and Programs Manager, with questions.
Contact Kim Connor for questions or assistance.
