The devastating flooding in Texas is a powerful reminder of the credit union movement’s core philosophy - people helping people. While no credit unions or credit union professionals have reported damage to their homes or offices to-date, the broader community is in urgent need. If you feel moved to support local relief efforts, please consider the resources listed in this article, which also highlights how credit unions in the area are stepping up to help those affected.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation’s 2024 Impact Report is now available, and we invite you to explore its pages — not just to see the numbers, but to feel the heart behind them. Each grant and each scholarship represents lives touched, and opportunities created — all made possible by the generosity and commitment of people like you. We express deep gratitude to the Carolinas Credit Union League and our Board of Directors, and every donor, partner, and credit union represented in our report. Your support, leadership, and shared vision have carried our mission forward.

Thanks to the collective support, 2024 was a remarkable year. Our scholarship program opened doors to education. Our grants uplifted communities in moments of both opportunity and crisis. And behind every philanthropic initiative was the guiding belief that when we work together, we can truly change lives. Thank you for your belief in this work. Thank you for the impact you make every day in the lives of your members. And thank you for continuing to show the world what the cooperative difference truly means.

At this year’s Wine Pull in Asheville, the credit union community raised $10,537 for the Foundation's scholarships and grants, and rolled up their sleeves to support MANNA FoodBank, bagging and sorting over 13,000 pounds of food for families in need. This powerful collaboration proves what’s possible when we live out the credit union spirit of “people helping people". Read more here on Carolinas' credit unions uniting to support MANNA FoodBank.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation and its 28 fund partners awarded a record $645,000 in academic and needs-based scholarships in 2025! We are proud to celebrate 36 incredible students who have received a combined $48,000 in scholarships directly from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation. From HBCU Scholars to Opportunity and Social Responsibility recipients, these students embody purpose-driven leadership, and their journeys are made possible by the unwavering support of our credit union partners.

Click here to read the full article recognizing all of the 2025 recipients.

The next scholarship application cycle opens October 1. More information is available here at the Scholarship Resources page of the Foundation. All members of credit unions headquartered in North or South Carolina are eligible to apply for scholarships from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation, so all credit unions are encouraged to promote the program to their members. If you have any questions or would like to talk further about adding a scholarship program, please contact Lauren Whaley or Jeff Hardin.

Small credit unions in the Carolinas, don’t miss this grant opportunity! Apply by September 12, 2025 for funding to support technology upgrades, capital improvements, outreach efforts, and more.