Supporting Mental Health and Accessibility to Assistance

Cornerstone recognizes member credit unions for their growth and endeavors in the community.

El Paso Chapter’s Gift of Hope Supports Mental Health and Healing

In 2021, the El Paso Chapter of Credit Unions selected the El Paso Child Guidance Center as the beneficiary of its annual golf tournament, donating $8,000 to support a much-needed facility remodel. Though the renovation faced delays due to rising costs and economic shifts, the Center celebrated its official reopening on May 28, 2025.

The newly renovated space now provides a welcoming, therapeutic environment where children and families can access vital mental health services. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, CEO Cathy Gaytan recognized the El Paso Chapter for its generosity and unwavering support.

In a lasting tribute, the Center dedicated a space in the new facility to the Chapter. Named Rincón de Respiros, which translates to The Breathing Corner, the room offers staff a peaceful area to recharge, reflect, or complete their work in a calming environment.

The El Paso Chapter’s contribution helped lay the foundation for a healing space that will serve the community for generations. It’s a powerful reminder of how credit unions continue to make a difference—one child, one family at a time.

1st University CU Wins Awarded for Expanding Access to Assistance Programs

1st University Credit Union has been awarded the People Helping People award by Finopotamus as part of its 2025 Tekkie Awards, recognizing credit unions using technology to meet real-world needs.

The Waco-based credit union earned the honor for its partnership with Starlight, a free, private tool that screens members for eligibility across hundreds of government assistance programs. Members can access it directly from the credit union’s website without tracking or data collection.

“We kept hearing from members that it was hard to know what help was out there, and even harder to figure out if they qualified,” said Shelley Carlson, executive vice president of marketing and relationship management at 1st University Credit Union. “We realized this was more than a convenience issue, it was a barrier to financial wellness.”

Starlight joins a suite of supportive tools at 1st University, including GreenPath and Dollar For. The initiative supports the credit union’s growth into rural counties and aligns with its goal to become CDFI certified.

“This award is especially meaningful to us as a smaller credit union,” said Kevin Hood, CEO and President at 1^st University Credit Union. “It validates our belief that you don’t need a massive budget or a big-city footprint to make a real difference. You just need to listen, care, and act.”