Early celebration features “Paella for Peace” event and recognition for community partners

Unitus Community Credit Union got a jumpstart on celebrating International Credit Union Day with an event honoring the global cooperative movement, recognizing community partners, and engaging with the World Foundation for Credit Unions (WFCU). International Credit Union Day is a celebration of the credit union movement’s history; it’s an opportunity to promote credit union achievements, share member experiences, and advocate for credit unions around the world.

Unitus hosted WFCU President Mike Reuter at its “Paella for Peace” celebration. Spearheaded by Unitus Community Credit Union President and CEO, Steven Stapp, the event highlighted our global connection, honoring our heritage and coming together for the collective good.

“For me, paella is all about enjoying the moment; coming together to create a meal as an act of love,” explained Mr. Stapp. “My grandmother started the tradition of making paella together as a way to celebrate family and friends and to recognize that we’re all in this together. Our family tradition has continued within my home, and I was honored to share it with our credit union and community partners.”

Locally owned Caballero’s Catering joined the event, making paella for guests on site and celebrating the dish’s heritage. The meal served as a testament to our global community and shared values.

As part of the celebration, Unitus awarded $125,000 in Community Impact Grants to partners who are making a difference in the lives of people around the world. A $25,000 donation to WFCU was gratefully accepted by Mr. Reuter.

“Celebrating International Credit Union Day with our partners at Unitus has been a great way to kick off our global celebration,” remarked Mr. Reuter. “This donation in support of our efforts to grow and strengthen the global credit union movement will have meaningful impact on people around the world. Part of the funds go toward a future Global Bridges trip, our exchange program that connects credit unions from different countries for advocacy, education, and celebration. Thank you to Unitus for this generous gift.”

Unitus awarded Community Impact Grants to five other organizations: IRCO ($25,000), WorldOregon ($25,000), GoWest Foundation in support for the Financial Empowerment Collaborative ($42,000), World Central Kitchen ($5,000) and the National Credit Union Foundation’s CUAid Disaster Relief Program ($3,000).

“We encourage anyone who can to donate to these outstanding organizations. Our partners are supporting and empowering communities. Whether it be in the form of disaster relief, global credit union advocacy, or support for our immigrant communities, each dollar of these Community Impact Grants reflects our commitment to the global credit union movement and the ‘people helping people’ philosophy,” said Mr. Stapp.

The International Credit Union Day celebration will continue at Unitus. On October 17, all of the credit union’s branches will welcome members to participate in an interactive heritage map activity. Members are encouraged to join the celebration and Unitus’ commitment to empowering communities through inclusive financial services.