Forming a “Union” with the Community

Random acts of kindness and volunteering represent dedication to making a difference.

Credit unions were founded on the principle of people helping people, and the Midland-based Members First Credit Union (MFCU) strives to make an impact by doing just that.

“We embrace that philosophy through our mission of making a positive difference,” says Cathleen Louisignau, MFCU marketing coordinator. “We created the Community Difference Project to impact people’s lives in positive ways—through volunteering, helping those in need, and simply doing good deeds. We’re here to create better lives for everyone in their communities.”

She explains, “When you see an MFCU employee out volunteering, it’s likely that they will be wearing a T-shirt that says ‘making a difference, that’s how we roll,’ and it truly is. It’s unusual for a week to go by that we aren’t out volunteering, sponsoring an event, or surprising people with random acts of kindness.”

Random acts of kindness? Surprise! Men or women on the streets may suddenly find themselves greeted by a black-shirted MFCU volunteer and walk away with a gas card or a grocery voucher.

In another opportunity to make a difference, the credit union’s 150 employees devoted an entire afternoon to volunteer team-building activities. This was more than just talk; it was hands on. Staffers assembled 26 bicycles for donations to children in need.

“It was an incredible experience and gave all our employees the opportunity to make a difference together,” Louisignau says. “Being able to make a positive difference through the credit union inspires our employees to live our mission in other ways than just helping our members financially.”

Giving in the GLBR and Beyond

Midland’s Members First Credit Union, formerly Midland County School Employees Credit Union, has expanded to an eight-county focus with nearly 20,000 members.

A top honor for Members First Credit Union is designation as United Way Caring Company of the Year. Examples of groups and activities supported by employees and depositors include:

• Midland County Habitat for Humanity
• Adopt-A-Family
• Junior Achievement
• Animal welfare groups
• Donations of items for American troops serving overseas
• Clare County Fair
• Farwell’s Stone Soup Project
• Midland-based Shelterhouse, serving victims of domestic abuse
• Swinging for Scholarships Golf Outing (seven $1,000 college grants are awarded)
• Regional community foundations
• Regional blood banks