Uniting for Inclusivity: How CU Pride and Chartway Credit Union Lead Change

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the contributions and advancements of the LGBTQ+ community. At the Virginia Credit Union League, we are proud to spotlight Chartway Credit Union for their active involvement in CU Pride, a testament to their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the credit union industry.

What is CU Pride?

CU Pride is the LGBTQ+ association for credit unions, dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ professionals, members, and allies. Its mission encompasses education, engagement, sharing, and celebration, aiming to foster an inclusive environment through its four tenets: promoting visibility, providing a safe space for dialogue, encouraging allyship, and enhancing inclusivity through various programs and initiatives.

Leading with Inclusion and Education

Chartway Credit Union’s membership in CU Pride reflects their long-standing commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all members and employees can thrive. Inspired by an initiative from one of their passionate team members, Chartway joined CU Pride to enhance their supportive efforts through comprehensive resources, educational programs, and community engagement.

Aligning Missions for Greater Impact

The mission of CU Pride deeply resonates with Chartway’s foundational values of inclusivity and diversity. Through various programs and initiatives such as the CU Pride events and the leadership conference, Chartway has strengthened its internal community support systems. These include six resource groups, with the Pride Resource Group playing a pivotal role, thereby enhancing their organizational culture and community service effectiveness.

Innovative Programs and Community Initiatives

Chartway has actively participated in CU Pride’s initiatives, bringing meaningful programs directly to their members and the broader community. For instance, during Pride Month, Chartway engages in numerous activities, including local Pride parades and educational seminars, to bolster community ties and support the LGBTQ+ community visibly and substantially.

Their involvement goes beyond mere participation; they provide platforms for important dialogues through panel discussions and have leadership contributions in educational sessions at industry conferences. This not only helps in networking but also in building strategic allyship within the financial sector.

Expanding Influence and Fostering Connections

Looking ahead, Chartway plans to deepen their involvement with CU Pride by increasing opportunities for team member engagement in various programs and initiatives. They aim to foster a more inclusive atmosphere not just within their organization but across the financial industry, advocating for rights and inclusivity through active participation and leadership in CU Pride.

By expanding these efforts, Chartway continues to build on the success of their initiatives, promoting a supportive and inclusive environment that resonates with their community-oriented ethos. The impact of their involvement is a testament to their commitment to not only serving their members but also leading by example in the credit union industry.

Moving Forward with Pride

As we continue to celebrate the achievements and ongoing efforts of CU Pride and its members, VACUL remains committed to supporting these initiatives. We believe that by embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, credit unions can make a significant impact on the industry and the communities they serve.

For credit unions looking to join this impactful network, CU Pride offers various membership levels, including opportunities for both individual and organizational allies. Engaging with CU Pride not only helps amplify the voice of the LGBTQ+ community within the credit union industry but also contributes to broader diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives.

For more information, visit their website here.