March was a month of community engagement, financial education, and volunteerism for Credit Union 1. Our team dedicated time to supporting financial literacy, addressing food insecurity, and strengthening local partnerships.

We continued our financial education efforts, presenting at Third Baptist Church of Chicago, educating UIC student-athletes, and speaking at the Kishwaukee Education Consortium 8th Grade Career Event. The DeKalb branch assisted students with job applications at Project Search Employment Prep Day, while the Lombard branch attended the Chicago Bulls College Prep class providing students with key financial literacy skills. Additionally, the Rantoul branch engaged young children in interactive reading sessions at the Head Start Book Mentors program, combining financial education with early literacy.

Food security remained a priority, with CU1 volunteers assisting at Three Square Feeding the Community, the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, Greater Northern Illinois Mobile Pantry, Libertyville Township Food Pantry, Glen House Food Pantry, and the Eagles Nest Food Pantry.

CU1 also supported community outreach initiatives, attending the Hobart Business Expo and Sycamore Chamber Annual Lunch to connect with local businesses and partners. Volunteers also participated in Women’s Health and Wellness events and the Chicago Homeless Outreach Packing Day, where clothing and supplies were distributed to those in need. The Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce - Cooking for the Homeless event allowed CU1 volunteers to prepare and serve meals to about 30 individuals.

March was a month of meaningful impact, and Credit Union 1 team members look forward to continuing our efforts in the months ahead!