Purdue Federal Credit Union (Purdue Federal) has been honored by the Indiana Credit Union League with two prestigious awards. The recognition highlights Purdue Federal’s commitment to financial literacy and community impact. Purdue Federal received first place in the Alphonse Desjardins Award for Adult Financial Literacy and an honorable mention in the Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award, both in the $1 billion-plus asset category.
The Desjardins Award highlights credit unions making a measurable difference in adult financial education. Purdue Federal earned first place for its Financial Empowerment program, which takes a multi-faceted approach to building financial confidence and stability. In 2024, thousands of individuals accessed Purdue Federal’s online articles and videos, interactive coaching tools, and community presentations, receiving financial education at no cost. In addition, 13 participants enrolled in the year-long program and received personalized one-on-one counseling. These participants, including individuals seeking greater access to financial resources, college students, and community members working to strengthen their financial stability, worked closely with financial counselors on budgeting, debt management, credit building, and long-term planning. This combination of hands-on support and self-service resources helped participants set goals, build strong financial habits, and take meaningful steps toward sustainable financial well-being.
The Dora Maxwell Award celebrates credit unions for their broader role in serving communities. Purdue Federal was recognized for its strong relationships with Purdue University and Ivy Tech Community College through Boiler Financial Track and The Financial Vine, which provide students and community members with workshops, presentations, and coaching designed to make financial literacy engaging and practical. Additional outreach included free financial wellness presentations delivered to more than 4,400 attendees, nearly 500 one-on-one counseling sessions, and support for local nonprofits through donations, food drives, and employee volunteerism, underscoring the Purdue Federal’s mission of people helping people.
“These awards are a reflection of Purdue Federal’s commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening the communities we serve,” said Darrick Weeks, President and CEO of Purdue Federal Credit Union. “We are proud of the impact our financial education and community initiatives are having, and we look forward to continuing this important work.”
“It’s inspiring to work with people as they build financial skills and achieve their goals,” said Colleen Shepherd, Community Outreach Director at Purdue Federal Credit Union. “These awards are a wonderful acknowledgment of the effort and care our team puts into supporting our community.”