TIGARD, OR (March 24, 2026) |
Unitus Community Credit Union announced today that it has exceeded all of its first-year targets within its three-year Social Responsibility Commitments initiative, demonstrating measurable progress toward expanding financial opportunity, supporting local businesses, and strengthening community impact across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
Launched in 2025, the Social Responsibility Commitments outline a measurable roadmap focused on five key areas: first-time homeownership, green auto lending, small business growth, emergency savings, and paid employee volunteerism. Designed to create meaningful, lasting impact, the Commitments reflect Unitus’ cooperative values and commitment to responsible, community-centered growth.
“These commitments represent real progress for real people,” said Steven Stapp, President and CEO of Unitus Community Credit Union. “Our members, employees, and community partners have embraced this shared vision, and together we’re building a more inclusive financial future.”
In the first year of the initiative, Unitus surpassed expectations across every category.
The Green Auto Loan program achieved remarkable results, reaching more than $40.1 million in financing—241% of its first-year target. The milestone supports members’ transition to cleaner, more efficient vehicles while advancing regional environmental sustainability goals.
Small business lending also delivered strong momentum, totaling more than $2.64 million, or 158% of the annual goal. By providing access to capital for entrepreneurs and local organizations, Unitus continues to help fuel economic growth and strengthen the small business ecosystem throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Community engagement remained a major focus, with employees contributing 1,723 paid volunteer hours—148% of the first-year goal—reinforcing the credit union’s belief that service extends beyond financial products and into meaningful community partnerships.
Homeownership efforts also showed significant progress. In addition to lending, we offered 20 home‑buying education sessions covering topics from the home‑buying process and Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) loan options to specialized classes for community partners including Farmworker Housing Development Corporation (FHDC), and local realtors—broadening our reach and strengthening collaboration across the communities we serve. First‑time homebuyer lending, which includes ITIN lending, reached more than $18.36 million, surpassing its first‑year target by 110% and helping more individuals and families access pathways to stable housing and long‑term financial wellness.
Additionally, Unitus advanced its emergency savings initiative by helping 3,367 members build at least $400 in Rewards Savings, slightly exceeding its annual goal and supporting financial resilience among members.
Unitus will continue to publish transparent updates through its Social Impact Dashboard as it works toward its long-term goals. Early results highlight the strength of the credit union’s purpose-driven strategy and reinforce its commitment to measurable, community-focused outcomes.
To learn more about Unitus’ Social Responsibility Commitments or to follow ongoing progress, visit unitusccu.com/social-responsibility-commitments.