There is more to financial health and well-being than just being financially literate.  Many factors can become barriers to people’s ability to achieve their financial goals or achieve a better quality of life.

In 2025 the Foundation, in partnership with Vizo Financial, launched the Vizo Financial Empowerment Grant for credit unions working on projects that address financial wellness issues in their communities. We are celebrating the work done by two of our grant recipients using these funds to help their members.

Addressing Student Barriers to Success in the DMV – FedChoice Charitable Foundation

The FedChoice Charitable Foundation applied their grant funds to several initiatives focused on helping underserved communities in the DMV. Focusing on barriers to success that low-income students face, the foundation used grant funds to distribute essential health and hygiene products, including soap, deodorant, feminine sanitary napkins, lotion, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer,  to students at Cora L. Rice Elementary School and G. James Gholson Middle School, two Title I schools located in Prince George’s County.  

“With so many barriers that our students face, a simple hygiene package can definitely boost self-esteem and decrease chances of a student being bullied. Every other week, our hygiene supply closet is completely emptied. The need is so strong, and the kids are super grateful for [the] support,” said Michelle Hibbert, Community Liaison, Cora L. Rice Elementary School when commenting on the support they received.

Helping Young Parents Build Financial Stability for their Families – SECU MD Foundation

The SECU MD Foundation used their Vizo grant funds to build on their partnership with The Family Tree, Maryland’s leading authority for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.  Working in Baltimore City, the foundation integrated financial education into The Family Tree’s holistic family stability and child abuse prevention services by tailoring content to families’ unique needs.

The foundation’s family financial literacy program focused on foundational money management skills, including budgeting, saving, and spending. In collaboration with Family Tree staff, they refined the curriculum to emphasize practical budgeting tools and strategies that families could immediately apply.  While adults participated in financial empowerment sessions, The Family Tree’s childcare team provided age-appropriate financial education activities and games to introduce children to basic money concepts.  Using grant funds, the program has laid a foundation for long-term financial wellness and stronger, more resilient families.

Grant Funds for Your Community Projects

The Credit Union Foundation is looking to help you create a positive, long-lasting impact in your communities.  Vizo Financial Empowerment Grants are still available.  Apply online here.