TBA Credit Union just handed over a $5,150 check to The Father Fred Foundation, and it all happened because people decided to open new accounts.
No bake sales, no galas—just a smart campaign that turned everyday banking decisions into real help for local families.
The concept is refreshingly straightforward. From April through June 2026, TBACU ran their “You Join. We Give.” initiative, pledging to donate every single $10 membership fee from new sign-ups directly to The Father Fred Foundation. Turns out, when you make it that easy for people to give back while they’re already doing something they need to do anyway, good things happen.
That $5,150 isn’t just a number on a ceremonial check. It’s going straight toward essential resources that make a tangible difference—food assistance, clothing, household basics, personal care items, and financial support for individuals and families who need it most.
“We are so grateful for TBA Credit Union’s support and thank them for helping us advance our mission of meeting essential needs in our community,” said Candice Hamel, Executive Director at The Father Fred Foundation. “As demand continues to outpace donations, this generous contribution will make an immediate and meaningful impact. We are proud to call TBA Credit Union a valued partner.”
Karen Browne, President and CEO of TBA Credit Union, put it perfectly: “The You Join. We Give. campaign is a simple but powerful way for our members to make a difference from day one. Every new membership helped provide support for neighbors facing challenges, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to partner with The Father Fred Foundation to strengthen our community together.”
And this isn’t a one-and-done situation. The You Join. We Give. campaign runs year-round, spotlighting a different nonprofit partner each quarter. Want to see who’s up next or learn more? Head over to tbacu.com/you-join-we-give.
For context, TBA Credit Union manages $383 million in assets and serves more than 20,000 members throughout Michigan. With two branches and a call center in Traverse City, plus access to over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide through the CO-OP Network and more than 300 Xtend Shared Branching locations, they’re making community banking work on both a local and practical level.
Related:
TBACU’s “You Join. We Give.” turns the new member welcome into a $4,220 community win
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