Connecticut's credit unions' celebration of credit unions as "Financial First Responders" gained national attention during the COVID-19 pandemic and became a popular hashtag on social media. In response, Credit Unions Building Financial Independence (CUBFI), the charitable arm of the Credit Union League of Connecticut, now offers branded t-shirts and promotional items to continue thanking credit union employees for their rapid response to help members through the COVID-19 pandemic.
CUBFI and the Connecticut League encourage credit union professionals to wear Financial First Responders merchandise while volunteering in the community or taking part in a "casual Friday" on August 7, 2020 and sharing the pictures on social media using the hashtags #creditunions are #financialfirstresponders. August 7 is the anniversary of the federal law that greatly increased credit union membership to a much broader population of financial consumers.
"Credit union professionals are always ready to step up and provide help when it's needed most," stated Bruce Adams, President and CEO of The Credit Union League of Connecticut, "The collaborative way credit unions help people and their communities in times of need is unique - but it is nothing new. Now we can show our deep appreciation in a lasting and tangible way."
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CUBFI is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation; all profits from the sale of the merchandise will benefit the foundation, which provides financial literacy education to enable Connecticut residents and communities build and maintain financial independence, focusing on underserved communities.
"I encourage our colleagues from across the country to join us in a nationwide celebration of credit unions on August 7 by proudly posting pictures of your Financial First Responders in their branded apparel," Adams added. "Let's help show what we know: that credit unions have always been there for our members through thick or thin."