Virginia Credit Union’s Community Support in 2023

Virginia Credit Union (VACU) has been a pillar of support for the community for nearly a century. With a strong focus on financial education, food security, and children, VACU has made a significant impact in these areas. Chris Shockley, CEO of Virginia Credit Union, emphasized the importance of this commitment, stating, "Virginia Credit Union was founded with a commitment to supporting our community. We are honored to continue this tradition in so many meaningful ways. In 2023 VACU began focusing its charitable contributions in three areas based on feedback from our members and board. These are Financial Education, Food Security, and Children. Although there are many worthy charities across Virginia, our hope is that by being focused and intentional we can achieve greater impact in these three areas."

"Our hope is that by being focused and intentional we can achieve greater impact in these three areas."

In the past year alone, VACU has made charitable contributions of approximately $2 million to over 200 recipients, encompassing financial, volunteer, and in-kind donations.

VACU's commitment to the community goes beyond financial contributions. Volunteers from the credit union have dedicated approximately 2,100 hours of their time this year, participating in various community events, varying from mentoring students to organizing drives to collect essential school supplies for local students.

Recognizing the power of financial literacy, VACU's team of financial success educators reached approximately 90,000 individuals in 2023. Their efforts were further amplified through their library of financial education resources. The team’s videos, articles, and expertise were featured over 4,000 times across the U.S., reaching millions of viewers.

The impact of VACU's financial education initiatives is evident through various programs and partnerships. From providing financial education classes to organizations such as Richmond City's Office of Community Wealth Builders and the YWCA of Richmond, to supporting initiatives like RPS Saves and RVA Reads, VACU is dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions.

VACU's commitment to community and financial education has not gone unnoticed. The credit union was honored with the Richmond Economic Development Partner of the Year Award for its outstanding educational and civic contributions. Additionally, VACU was ranked number one and two in the country for financial education for adults and youth, respectively, by both state and national associations for credit unions.

Learn more about Virginia Credit Union's community initiatives and financial education programs.

Virginia Credit Union, a member-owned financial cooperative with over members, offers a wide range of affordable banking services, loans, mortgages, and free financial education resources. The organization is committed to helping individuals gain confidence in managing their finances. As an equal housing opportunity lender, Virginia Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.