Unitus Community Credit Union Ranked Third Most Philanthropic Corporation, Earns Innovation in Philanthropy Award

Posted by Katy Wagnon on October 28, 2022

Unitus Community Credit Union has been named the third most philanthropic large corporation in the Portland Metro Area by the Portland Business Journal. In its annual ranking, PBJ recognized Unitus for its commitment to the communities it serves. This marks the 12th consecutive year Unitus has been ranked as a top ten large corporate philanthropist.

Unitus celebrated its largest year of giving in 2021, donating more than $464,000 to community partners and organizations. It marked a 47% increase in community giving over 2020. The credit union launched two multi-year commitments in 2021, pledging $30,000 over three years to Clackamas Service Center’s Food Hub expansion project and to Snowcap Charities Covenant Campus expansion.

The Portland Business Journal also recognized Unitus with its “Innovation in Philanthropy” award. The credit union earned the award for its partnership with AWARE Food Bank in Woodburn, Oregon. Unitus donated $50,000 to support the food bank’s Farmworker Program Coordinator position. The coordinator helps ensure farmworkers can access the food bank’s resources by delivering food directly to them where they work. Unitus’ contribution is also helping AWARE rebuild after an arson destroyed the food bank, wiping out its entire food supply.

“Being recognized for innovation in philanthropy is truly an honor,” explained Steven Stapp, president and CEO of Unitus. “We recognize there is no one-size-fits-all approach to community giving and look for opportunities to support organizations that are removing barriers in service to their communities. Our partnership with AWARE is a shining example of identifying a need, creating a solution, and implementing services that help historically underserved community members.”

In 2021, Unitus provided more than $170,000 in diversity, equity, and inclusion focused sponsorships. The credit union directed 34% of its overall giving to culturally specific, BIPOC-led, community-based organizations with programs serving communities of color. Other community-giving areas of focus in 2021 included housing support, youth development, and education. Unitus employees served more than 630 volunteer hours across Oregon and Southwest Washington in 2021.

“While it’s wonderful to be recognized for our contributions in the communities we serve, we do this work because it is who we are and is deeply rooted in the culture of our organization,” said Aimee Berg, Manager of Community Development at Unitus. “We are grateful to our members, staff, and community partners and share this honor with them; it wouldn’t be possible without their support.”

Posted in Oregon, Regional Member News.