Credit Union Spotlight, presented by CUInsight, features credit unions taking action and changing their local communities. Join us as we recognize and celebrate the important work these credit unions do to bring their mission to life.
At Members Cooperative Credit Union, living the credit union philosophy of people helping people means looking beyond traditional financial services and asking a bigger question: How can we create lasting positive change in the lives of the people we serve?
That question sparked a two-year journey that ultimately led to Project Horizon, a long-term commitment focused on advancing mental well-being throughout Members Cooperative Credit Union’s communities.
The initiative stems from Members Cooperative's mission: To make our communities stronger, our employees happier, and our world better. What began as a strategic conversation about living out the credit union's mission has evolved into an organization-wide movement that is already creating meaningful impact.
A purpose-driven journey
The initiative is the result of nearly two years of research, discussion, and collaboration among Members Cooperative's leadership team, board of directors, and employees. The credit union formed an internal task force that included branch managers and leaders from across the organization to explore where Members Cooperative could make the greatest difference in the lives of members and communities.
Throughout the process, one theme consistently surfaced: mental well-being.
The team recognized the strong connection between financial well-being and mental well-being, understanding that financial stress can affect mental health and vice versa. Just as importantly, employees shared firsthand stories of the challenges members face and the growing need for support, connection, and accessible resources.
Rather than focusing solely on mental health, Members Cooperative intentionally embraced the broader concept of mental well-being—an approach that includes mental health support while also promoting joy, belonging, resilience, and meaningful human connection.
Turning commitment into action
Project Horizon officially launched during an all-employee event in April, where Members Cooperative Credit Union introduced employees to the initiative and outlined its vision for the future.
Since the launch, employees have participated in community events focused on mental well-being, including the Stomp On Stigma 5K and regional mental health awareness initiatives. The credit union is also expanding employee training opportunities, developing new community partnerships, and exploring ways to make well-being resources more accessible within its branches.
"We have always been a purpose-driven industry. This is something more: a deeper investment in our mission in the form of a long-term commitment to mental wellbeing. Project Horizon is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us to take action and bring real, positive impact to our communities where it is needed. We will meaningfully support our employees, members and the greater community through human connection, knowledge and action." said Simone Suri, SVP, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel at Members Cooperative Credit Union.
Looking toward the horizon
While Project Horizon officially launched earlier this year, Members Cooperative Credit Union views mental well-being as a long-term commitment rather than a short-term initiative. To help bring that commitment to life, Members Cooperative Credit Union has pledged $1 million toward advancing mental well-being, reinforcing its belief that meaningful community impact requires sustained investment and action.
The credit union is also reinvesting in and reimagining its Foundation to support Project Horizon's goals. Future plans include fundraising efforts within both the community and the credit union industry to expand support for mental well-being initiatives and partnerships.
Supporting access to care remains a key priority. Project Horizon's first major investment included a $100,000 commitment to Brightwater Health's Walk-In Clinic, helping expand access to critical mental health services in northern Minnesota. Members Cooperative plans to continue identifying and supporting organizations that bring needed mental health resources to the communities it serves.
The credit union is also exploring ways to support education and professional development opportunities for behavioral health specialists, recognizing the important role they play in strengthening community well-being.
Ultimately, Project Horizon is about creating stronger connections between people. Whether through partnerships, events, education, or community engagement, Members Cooperative Credit Union is committed to finding new ways to bring people together, strengthen social connections, and foster a greater sense of belonging.
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