Community in Action: OURCU’s Impact from January Through March 2026

At Our Community Credit Union (OURCU), community isn’t just part of our name, it’s at the heart of everything we do. From advocating for the credit union movement at the state level to rolling up our sleeves at local events and classrooms, the first quarter of the year has been a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people come together with a shared purpose.

Advocating for Credit Unions at the Washington State Capitol

Our commitment to members and communities extends beyond branch walls. Earlier this year, OURCU staff joined credit union peers from across the state at Washington Credit Union Day at the Capitol, hosted by the GoWest Credit Union Association. This annual event provides an important opportunity to advocate for policies that protect and strengthen not-for-profit financial cooperatives, ensuring credit unions can continue to serve members, expand access to affordable financial services, financial education initiatives and reinvest locally. Representing OURCU in Olympia reinforced the importance of having a voice for our members and the communities we proudly serve.

Supporting Local Business Through the Elma Chamber

OURCU’s commitment to community includes showing up behind the scenes to help local events thrive. In January, OURCU staff proudly volunteered their time to support the Elma Chamber Winter Wine Festival, helping ensure the event was a success for attendees, vendors, and the broader Grays Harbor community. By volunteering at this event, our team helped create a welcoming, fun experience that brought people together while supporting local businesses and organizations. It’s one more way OURCU lives out its mission of strengthening the communities we serve.

Taking the Plunge for a Great Cause

One of the most energizing moments of the quarter came during the Hood Canal Lions Club Polar Plunge on February 14th at the Alderbrook Resort & Spa, where 15 members of the OURCU staff and family members braved the cold waters to support a vital cause. Thanks to generous donations and team fundraising efforts, OURCU helped raise over $2,000 for Mason County EMS services the credit union generously matched the funds raised by staff, contributing over $4,000 to the cause. It was a fun, high-energy way to give back, while supporting the first responders who play a critical role in keeping our communities safe.

Empowering Students Through Bite of Reality Fairs

OURCU’s commitment to financial education continues to grow. This winter, OURCU volunteers teamed up with Kitsap Credit Union and Peninsula Credit Union through the North Mason Chamber Education Committee to bring Bite of Reality financial simulations to North Mason High School, impacting nearly 200 students. This spring, the experience will continue at Elma High School and Griffin Middle School, giving more than 200 additional students the opportunity to explore real-world budgeting through the interactive app-based program.

These hands-on experiences give students practical insight into budgeting, managing expenses, and making informed financial decisions, skills that help prepare them for life after high school. Watching students engage, ask thoughtful questions, and build confidence in their financial knowledge is one of the most rewarding parts of this work. We’re also proud to highlight the community partners who volunteer their time at these events, demonstrating a strong network of support for students as they grow into the next generation of credit union members and our local workforce.

Looking Ahead: Free Community Shred Event – March 14, 2026

As we head into spring, OURCU is excited to continue serving the community with an upcoming Free Community Shred Event on March 14, 2026, at the OURCU Steamboat Branch. This event is open to everyone in the community and provides a safe, convenient way to securely dispose of sensitive documents, at no cost.

In addition to shredding services, OURCU will be collecting non-perishable food items to support local food banks, helping address food insecurity across our region. It’s a simple way to protect your identity while making a meaningful difference for neighbors in need.

Community Strong — Together

From advocacy and education to volunteerism and service, the first quarter of the year highlights what it truly means to be community strong. OURCU is proud of our staff, members, and partners who make this work possible, and we look forward to continuing to show up, give back, and grow together throughout the year.

We invite you to join us at upcoming events, follow along on social media, and be part of the impact we’re creating, together!