Two Reports, One Story of Impact

On the League side, that support showed up in practical ways that helped credit unions navigate a demanding year. Across Cornerstone’s five-state region, advocacy remained front and center as credit unions worked together to protect the tax exemption, respond to legislative threats, and elevate the value of cooperative finance. At the same time, compliance assistance remained a steady resource, with Information Central responding to 2,080 inquiries from 293 credit unions. For many institutions, that kind of guidance is not just helpful. It is essential. 

The League report also reinforces that support looks different depending on a credit union’s size and needs. Small credit unions, in particular, continued to receive focused attention through tailored programming, Hot Topic calls, in-person trainings, consulting, and the launch of the Small Credit Union Pulse newsletter. That kind of intentional outreach matters because it helps ensure all credit unions, regardless of size, have access to the tools and connections they need to stay strong. 

The Foundation report picks up where that story continues in communities. In 2025, the Foundation awarded 184 grants totaling $529,017, helping credit unions invest in professional development, community initiatives, and long-term growth. It also supported 152 students through the Financial Counseling Certification Program, expanded access to financial wellness tools, and partnered with BALANCE to offer one-on-one counseling opportunities to more than 40,000 staff members across the Cornerstone region. 

And when disaster struck, the Foundation stood ready to respond, providing relief support to affected individuals and credit unions while continuing to strengthen the movement through donor-advised funds, grants/scholarships, and philanthropy. 

Viewed separately, each report offers a snapshot. Viewed together, they tell a broader story about what is possible when advocacy, education, compliance support, financial wellness, and philanthropy all work in concert. One report shows how Cornerstone helps credit unions operate and lead with confidence. The other shows how the Foundation helps them extend that impact even further. 

Both reports are worth a closer look because together, they reflect a simple truth: when credit unions are supported well, communities benefit.