Gesa Credit Union Boosts Local Education with Nearly $440,000 in Donations to Schools Across the PNW

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on August 18, 2025

Gesa Credit Union announced on Aug. 15 that it has awarded nearly $440,000 in funds through its Affinity Debit Card program to 31 partner school districts across the Pacific Northwest. This marks the program’s largest annual giveback since its launch in 2015.

“We’re proud to continue investing in the future of education across the Pacific Northwest, and this year’s giveback is a true reflection of what’s possible when our members align their everyday spending with their values,” said Brandon Allison, AVP of Community Impact at Gesa Credit Union. “Thanks to our members, we’re able to support local schools in our communities with resources that help strengthen classroom learning and directly benefit students and educators.”

The record-breaking funds, which were generated through the 2024-2025 school year, will support partner schools by enhancing academic programs, supporting technological needs, and funding extracurricular activities and athletics. Every time a participating member uses their card, Gesa donates to that school — all at no additional cost to members. Since 2015, Gesa has raised more than $2.2 million for local schools through the program, demonstrating how everyday banking can fuel positive change for the community.

In eastern Washington, 21 schools and districts were awarded more than $310,000, including: College Place School District, Columbia Basin College Foundation, Columbia School District, Delta High School, Eastmont School District, Finley School District, Heritage University, Kennewick School District, Kiona-Benton City School District, Liberty Christian School, Naches Valley School District, Pasco School District, Prosser School District, Richland School District, St. Patrick Catholic School, Tri-Cities Prep Catholic High School, Tri-Tech Skills Center, Walla Walla Public Schools, Wenatchee School District, West Valley School District, and Yakima School District.

In western Washington, six school districts and college foundations were awarded more than $75,000, including: the Foundation for Edmonds School District, Everett Community College Foundation, Puyallup School District, Renton School District, Tacoma Public Schools, and Highline College Foundation.

In the Inland Northwest, four school districts were awarded more than $45,000, including: Central Valley School District, Ephrata School District, Moses Lake School District, and Pullman Public Schools.

These Co-Branded Affinity Debit Cards are available exclusively at Gesa Credit Union and are free to members with a checking account. There is no fee for members to switch their card to any of the school designs. For a full list of the credit union’s Affinity Cards, which support K-12 schools, colleges, and universities, Local Heroes, and more, visit www.gesa.com/product/affinity-cards/.

Posted in Community Impact, Idaho, Regional Member News, Top Headlines, Washington.