Supporting Veterans and Celebrating Mergers

Cornerstone League recognizes member credit unions for their growth and community endeavors to exemplify the “people helping people” philosophy.

TFCU Foundation Donation Supports Veterans and First Responders

The Tinker Federal Credit Union Foundation recently received a donation from Credit Union Service Centers of Oklahoma through its CUSC Gives Back Foundation to support programs benefiting local veterans and first responders. The contribution will help advance the Foundation’s mission of providing critical home repairs and meaningful resources to those who serve their communities.

The donation will directly support the TFCU Foundation’s Veteran Home Repair Program, which provides repairs and modifications that help veterans remain safe in their homes. Working with volunteers and skilled tradespeople, the program addresses safety and accessibility needs while improving comfort and quality of life for veterans and their families.

“We are deeply grateful for this support,” said Kate Bacon, managing director of the TFCU Foundation. “This donation reflects a shared commitment to honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans and first responders, and it will make a real and lasting impact in our community.”

Misty Babb-Hayes, president/CEO of CUSC, said the organization selected the TFCU Foundation for the grant because of its direct impact. “The TFCU Foundation is doing meaningful, hands-on work to support veterans and first responders in tangible ways,” Babb-Hayes said. “Service to others is a core value of the credit union movement, and this grant is one way we live that commitment beyond our walls.”

West Community CU Merges with Gateway Metro Federal Credit Union

West Community CU and Gateway Metro Federal Credit Union have officially completed their legal merger, bringing together two member-owned financial cooperatives with a shared commitment to service, financial well-being, and community enrichment.

The combined institution will have nearly $700 million in assets and serve more than 42,000 members across 16 branches. According to the credit union, the merger is designed to strengthen member value through expanded access, enhanced products, and continued local decision-making, while also deepening its commitment to financial education and community development.

“This merger represents a strategic investment in our members, our people, and the communities we serve,” said Jason Peach, president/CEO of West Community Credit Union. “By bringing together two strong organizations with shared values, we are better equipped to meet evolving member needs while empowering our teams and staying true to our mission of people helping people.”

While the legal merger is now complete, the two organizations will continue operating on separate systems until a full integration on Oct. 1, when members will begin using the combined operational platform under the West Community Credit Union brand.