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Celebrating Credit Unions: The 2025 MAXX Awards Finalists

The GoWest Credit Union Association is thrilled to unveil the list of finalists for the highly anticipated 2025 MAXX Awards. These accolades are dedicated to credit unions that have made remarkable strides in supporting their communities and advancing the cooperative movement. The focus this year is on how these institutions exemplify the motto of "People Helping People," by demonstrating their commitment to uplift local communities and improve the lives of their members.

Importance of the MAXX Awards

More than just a celebration, the MAXX Awards highlight the core values that drive credit unions. Troy Stang, President and CEO of GoWest Credit Union Association, stated, "Our MAXX Awards are about more than recognition; they're about honoring the heart of the Credit Union Movement." Each finalist tells a story of impact, showcasing efforts that go beyond mere financial transactions.

A Closer Look at the Finalists

The finalists are organized into various categories, such as Collaboration, Community Impact, Employee Experience, and Member Programs, each featuring amazing initiatives aimed at making a difference.

Cooperation in Action

Here are some highlights:

• - BECU, Salal Credit Union, Sound Credit Union, Verity Credit Union, WSECU: These five Washington credit unions collaborated to support the Seattle Foundation's Evergreen Impact Housing Fund. Their efforts culminated in the opening of Solera Apartments in Renton, providing 277 affordable housing units for working families.
• - CU4Kids Northwest Classic: A collaborative effort among multiple credit unions raised over $17.3 million to support Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. In 2025, they launched an online initiative that allowed over one million members to donate directly, enhancing community care efforts.
• - Community Engagement: Six credit unions, including SnoCope Credit Union and NW Plus Credit Union, joined forces to raise more than $10,000 for Dawson Place Child Advocacy Center, supporting vulnerable children and teens.

Community Impact

• - Empowering Women with Financial Literacy: Colorado Credit Union introduced the EmpowerHER program to assist women served by Dress for Success Denver, focusing on essential finance skills through in-person workshops.
• - Support for Education: Since November 2023, STCU has facilitated numerous FAFSA assistance events, helping local families navigate financial aid processes for higher education.
• - Microgrant Program: Verity Credit Union's initiative has so far awarded over $202,000 to grassroots organizations, fostering support in underserved communities across Washington.

Employee Experience

• - Credit Union West: Recognized for the 12th consecutive year as a top workplace in Arizona, Credit Union West offers diverse training opportunities and a supportive work culture.
• - Pioneer Federal Credit Union: Their innovative "Give Back Bingo" fosters team spirit while supporting local nonprofits, striking a balance between fun and philanthropy.
• - Rogue Credit Union: Launched Rogue Thrives, focusing on holistic employee wellness, resulting in significant participation across their team.

Member Programs

• - Gesa Credit Union: Their High School Credit Union (HSCU) Program allows high school students to gain real-world banking experience and financial education through 18 student-run branches.
• - OnTap Credit Union: Money Hacks, their new holistic financial literacy program, is tailored for tech-savvy younger generations to understand personal finance in engaging ways.
• - Unitus Community Credit Union: Their Unitus Rewards Program incentivizes members to save while spending, showcasing innovative approaches to personal finance.

The Conclusion

The winners of the MAXX Awards will be announced at the GoWest MAXX Convention, scheduled for October 16 in Portland, Oregon. These finalists are a testament to the vibrant spirit of the Credit Union Movement in the region, showcasing how these institutions are striving to make a real difference in their communities. To learn more about the MAXX Awards and this year's finalists, visit the official website of the GoWest Credit Union Association.