Celebrating the Power of Strong Partnerships: Credit Union 1 Makes Transformational Gift for Families
Protecting children from abuse and neglect begins with all of us - every Alaskan, in every community. To truly make a change to outcomes for children and families, we must link arms with parents, educators, providers, and the business community to collectively work towards a brighter future for kids. Prevention starts with strong partnerships and a shared commitment to Alaska’s children and families.
“Bringing this level of investment into Alaska is a powerful example of what’s possible when we work together to support families. Both of these organizations are doing deeply meaningful work by showing up for parents, children and communities in moments that matter most. We’re proud to help expand their reach.”
This spring, Credit Union 1 (CU1) made a historic investment of $350,000 to Alaska Children’s Trust (ACT) through a matching grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines’ (FHLB Des Moines) Member Impact Fund. The Member Impact Fund is a powerful example of what’s possible when local leadership is paired with national resources. Through this opportunity, Credit Union 1 contributed $100,000 to the FHLB’s fund, which was matched by the fund 2.5-to-1, resulting in transformational support for Alaska communities.
CU1's investment in ACT reflects their deep commitment to addressing the root causes of harm versus just responding to it. Rather than directing resources solely toward services that support children and families in crisis, CU1 chose to invest upstream, in the prevention work that keeps families from reaching that point in the first place. They understand that a community's long-term health depends not on how well it manages suffering, but on how effectively it prevents it.
“At Credit Union 1, we believe strong communities start with strong families,” Burgess added. “This investment reflects our commitment to supporting organizations that are building a healthier, more resilient Alaska.”
ACT and Credit Union 1 staff celebrate the transformational gift of $350,000
“This investment allows us to deepen our work alongside communities across Alaska by expanding prevention efforts, strengthening families, and creating safer, more supportive environments for children to grow and thrive. We’re grateful for this partnership and the opportunity to do this work together, for the long term.”
Here at Alaska Children’s Trust, this funding fuels our prevention-first work, designed to stop harm before it occurs. We focus on strengthening families, expanding opportunities for youth, and addressing the root causes that can lead to crisis. This includes advancing policies and systems that support family well-being, increasing access to afterschool and learning opportunities that build protective factors, and working alongside communities to create a more responsive and supportive child welfare system. It is long-term, upstream work grounded in the belief that when families and communities have the knowledge, skills, supports, and resources they need, children thrive.
For more information about Credit Union 1’s community impact efforts, visit cu1.org.