CU Designations are programs demonstrating a commitment to serving low-income and economically distressed communities. Designations are given to specialized organizations, like Credit Unions, that provide financial services in low-income communities and to people who have little to no access to financing or financial education.
CDFI Certification
Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Certification is a designation given by the CDFI Fund to specialized organizations that provide financial services in low-income communities and to people who lack access to financing.
CDFI-designated credit unions and organizations on the path to obtaining the designation regularly connect at GoWest virtual roundtables. For more information, please contact Nayab Abbasi.
Learn MoreLow-Income Designation
Low-Income Designation is available for credit unions whose membership meets certain low-income thresholds based on data available from the U.S. Census Bureau. The GoWest Association’s Regulatory Affairs team is available to help consult credit unions on obtaining this designation. For more information, please contact John Trull.
Learn MoreJuntos Avanzamos
The Juntos Avanzamos designation, offered through Inclusiv, is available to credit unions that demonstrate a commitment to serving and empowering Hispanic consumers. For more information on obtaining this designation, please contact Carmen Vigil.
Learn More
GoWest Juntos Avanzamos Designated Credit Unions:
- Embold CU – Oregon
- Clarity CU – Idaho
- Community Choice CU – Colorado
- Express CU – Washington
- Fitzsimons CU – Colorado
- Harrison FCU – Colorado
- Idaho Central CU – Idaho
- MariSol FCU – Arizona
- NW Plus CU – Washington
- Partner Colorado CU – Colorado
- Point West CU – Oregon
- Seattle CU – Washington
- Unitus Community CU – Oregon
- Vantage West CU – Arizona
- Wauna CU – Oregon
Upcoming Events
All EventsWyoming CU Day at the Capitol
Idaho CU Day at the Capitol
Washington CU Day at the Capitol
Arizona CU Day at the Capitol
On The Go Articles
WECU Awards $125,000 in Education First Grants to Four Local Organizations
Four organizations working to expand educational opportunities and create stronger communities in Washington's Whatcom and Skagit counties will receive a combined $125,000 from WECU through its 2026 Education First Grant Program.
Backpack Brigade Receives $20,000 from Sound Credit Union’s 2026 Employee Fundraiser
The Sound Credit Union fundraiser generated $20,000 to support Backpack Brigade's mission of providing weekend food to children experiencing food insecurity, helping ensure students have access to nutritious meals when they are away from school.
STCU Efforts Provide More Than $500,000 for Fire Response
The effort is ongoing as STCU continues to look for ways to support the community while encouraging others to do the same.