The Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) is thrilled to announce another successful CU Kind Day®, its signature initiative dedicated to spreading kindness throughout the state. Held on October 14, the event saw an outstanding number of participants, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of credit union community engagement.

A Commitment to Giving Back
This year, 80 Illinois credit unions and partners joined forces with ICUL, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of the credit union movement to giving back. Over 900 dedicated volunteers generously donated their time, logging an impressive 5,400+ hours to support their local communities. Their efforts resulted in a record-breaking $112,000+ worth of goods and donations distributed among 183 community organizations across Illinois.

Kindness in Action

The spirit of CU Kind Day manifested in countless acts of generosity. Volunteers participated in a variety of activities, including:

• Monetary donations to support vital programs and services.

• Food and clothing drives to assist families in need.

• Volunteer time at local shelters, food banks, and community centers.

• Donating school supplies to ensure students have the resources they need to succeed.

• Delivering care packages to brighten the day of those facing hardship.

“We are humbled by the outpouring of support,” stated Staci Hering, ICUL’s Director of Culture and Engagement, and the driving force behind CU Kind Day. “Witnessing the dedication of our credit union volunteers in serving their communities is truly inspiring. These acts of kindness not only leave a lasting impact on those who receive them, but also embody the core credit union principle of ‘people helping people.’”

Spreading Kindness Beyond State Lines

CU Kind Day is not just an Illinois phenomenon. Inspired by the Minnesota Credit Union Network (MCUN) and ICUL’s initiatives, leagues and credit unions from across the country are embracing “kindness days” of their own. This year, credit unions in seven states, including Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, joined forces to spread kindness in their communities.