Advantage One Credit Union has not only been a staple financial institution in the Brownstown area for years, but also a dedicated community partner.

Over the years, the credit union has built a strong reputation as a committed supporter of Downriver schools, teachers and students, consistently investing in initiatives that benefit students both inside and outside the classroom. From sponsoring school programs like robotics teams, softball teams and marching bands to donating raffle baskets and branded items for fundraisers, Advantage One plays an active role in strengthening a
sense of community across Downriver schools.

One of the credit union’s major education initiatives is its student scholarship program designed to provide financial aid to individuals pursuing further education. Each spring, Advantage One awards four $2,500 scholarships to traditional college or university students, trade school attendees and adults continuing their education. One of the scholarships is reserved specifically for an Advantage One member, while another is designated specifically for an adult learner.

In recent years, the credit union has expanded its educational impact through a popular teacher grant program. Now in its third year, the campaign allows local teachers to share how they would use a $500 grant to benefit their classroom. Ten winners are selected annually, and more than 100 teacher grant applications were submitted last year alone.

“Teacher grant time is my favorite time of year,” said Community Outreach Coordinator Lindsay Dennis. “Teachers spend so much of their own money and time on their classrooms, and they don’t always get the recognition they deserve, so I love seeing how we can help meet the needs that these teachers have and it brings instant tears to my eyes to see how happy they are.”

Beyond formal programs and initiatives, Advantage One is dedicated to supporting educators and students yearround. Last fall, after learning that some local teachers were personally covering the costs of snacks for students who came to school without adequate food, the credit union stepped in to provide classroom snacks, truly personifying their philosophy of “people helping people.”

The same spirit of giving extends into Advantage One’s daily operations as they prioritize giving back to the broader community. For the past three years, Advantage One has donated $5,000 to the Taylor School District’s Resource Closet (formerly known as Blessings in a Backpack), which helps provide essential items and support to local families in need.

Financial education is another cornerstone of Advantage One’s community outreach. The credit union teaches essential money management skills through interactive reality fairs and classroom presentations with hands-on experiences that help students build financial literacy skills that will last a lifetime.

Additionally, the credit union volunteers annually at the Taylor Schools Special Olympics, works with Sleep in Heavenly Peace to help build beds for children in need and is actively involved with organizations like the Downriver West Kiwanis Club and the Woodhaven Brownstown Rotary Club.

“I’m very blessed to have a job where I can see the difference we make in our community,” Dennis said.

To learn more about Advantage One Credit Union, visit www.myaocu.com or call the Brownstown branch at (734) 676-7000