CU1 Cares

Strengthening and empowering the communities we serve.

Credit Union 1 is committed to helping individuals, families, and communities succeed, both through our credit union and by giving back. We serve our members needs daily, but also serve the larger communities where our members live. Through community partnerships, financial wellbeing initiatives, and employee-led projects, Credit Union 1 helps our communities thrive.

Connect with Credit Union 1 to arrange a financial education seminar for your school or organization, or to invite Credit Union 1 to participate in an upcoming community event.

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Items Donated in 2024

3,859 Food Drive Items

5,997 School Supply Items

576 Winter Accessories

190 Toy Items

Charitable Giving

In 2024, Credit Union 1 donated more than $150,000 to charitable organizations nationwide that work directly in the communities where our members live.

Community Events

CU1 employees are fixtures in our communities. In 2024, our employees showed their support by hosting and attending 149 community events, which culminated in giving back 477 hours of their time.

Volunteering and Drives

Credit Union 1 supports our employees as they volunteer in their communities by providing paid time off to volunteer. In 2024, our employees volunteer for 137 hours and donated 10,622 items—like winter coats and accessories, school supplies, food, and toys—to local organizations.

The Golic Family Foundation

Credit Union 1 is proud to partner with The Golic Family Foundation, a charitable organization started by former NFL player and veteran sportscaster Mike Golic and his family. In 2024, CU1 and The Golic Family Foundation partnered to give $100,000 in grants to 13 local organizations.

Financial Literacy Initiatives

Credit Union 1 supports the financial wellbeing of our members and communities year-round, and our team members are going above and beyond to increase financial literacy in our communities. CU1 team members host Banking Basics seminars in our communities to educate, build connections, and support individuals and families in their financial journeys.

Bring CU1's Financial Literacy Workshops to You

Complete the contact form below to request Credit Union 1 hold a financial literacy workshop at your school or organization. A member from our CU1 Cares team will reach out with more information.

* All fields required

First Name

Last Name

Email Address

Phone Number (ex: 8005550100)

Organization Name

Which presentation topics are you interested in?

Budgeting

Credit Score

Fraud

Financial Goal Setting

Other

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Sam Hamilton

Sam Hamilton
VP Community Relations

Meet Sam and the rest of our CU1 Cares team to see how we’re making a difference together!

Meet Our Team

Financial Education with CU1

Credit Union 1 has expert answers for your personal finance questions and timely tips on the latest money topics. Discover the latest posts on everything from paying down debt to refinancing loans.

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Personalized Learning

CU1’s Financial Wellbeing Center is a free platform designed to guide you on your unique financial journey. Take a quiz to learn your money personality, get personalized content recommendations, speak to Certified Personal Finance Experts, and more. Set up your free account in minutes.

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CU1 Cares Monthly Roundups

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UIC East branch - Building Wealth Today for Tomorrow

October 2025 CU1 Cares Event Roundup

October was another active month for Credit Union 1 nationwide, with branches engaging in a wide variety of community and financial literacy events. The Big Lake branch in Minnesota officially joined the team, attending the Community Connect event to help community members access vital resources and experience a sense of local connection. Meanwhile, the Bradenton branch continued its commitment to supporting Florida small businesses and entrepreneurs by partnering with Realize Bradenton – StartUp Circle to share resources on credit and financial wellness. The Lombard branch in Illinois engaged youth in financial literacy through a Bite of Reality workshop with Lumity Maywood Cohort, providing valuable budgeting lessons and life skills to young adults.

September 2025 CU1 Cares Event Roundup

In September, our branches continued to engage with local communities through financial literacy, volunteer work, and partnership events. These events highlight the commitment of Credit Union 1 to empower families, students, and community members with the knowledge, resources, and support they need to thrive. Through hands-on involvement our branches continued to strengthen relationships and create meaningful opportunities for those we serve.

August 2025 CU1 Cares Event Roundup

August was an exceptional month for Credit Union 1, marked by the conclusion of our School Supply Drive. Thanks to the generosity of our members, staff, and community partners, each of our branches collected a grand total of 6,196 items to donate to local students. The branches also stayed active throughout the month by supporting teachers and students heading back to school, providing financial literacy programs, food pantry volunteering, and networking opportunities.