As we near the end of another year, it is a time to reflect upon what was accomplished and to look forward to the challenges of the coming year. America’s Credit Union Museum again made great strides in 2011 to ensure that the history, values and philosophies of the credit union movement will be preserved for future generations. The Museum continues to gain visibility as Peggy Powell, Executive Director chronicles the credit union movement’s rich history, supports fundraising, and shares hospitality and enthusiastic response with organizations inquiring about the Museum.

Unique artifacts were acquired that are now on exhibit. Through credit union community support, generous donations were made by individuals, credit unions, and organizations. Artifacts and memorabilia from credit union leagues, individual credit unions, and credit union members will continue to be sought for the Hall of States. The ultimate goal is to have representation of the history of credit unions and the individuals who pioneered its spirit from all 50 states.

In 2011, the CU for Reality™ Financial Literacy Education Program expanded to 26 fairs sponsored by 26 credit unions in 10 states and in Germany reaching 9,500 students worldwide. The Museum hosted 10 of these fairs in 2011, providing the space as well as the exposure to credit union history and values for the participants. In 2012, the program will be delivered to over 10,000 individuals. The program will continue to be expanded to credit unions across the country and on military bases around the world. New high school and elementary programs were piloted in 2011 and will soon be available. Many other events were hosted at the Museum throughout the year, including credit union board and annual meetings, strategic planning sessions, meetings with state congressional representatives and area non-profit board meetings. Credit union visitors from across the country took time to include a visit and take a tour of the Museum in their schedules. In 2012, America’s Credit Union Museum will celebrate its 10th anniversary. We look forward to the continued expansion of the Museum and ensuring it continues to be a valuable resource for credit union history.

Since 2002, approximately 700 donors have generously given to America’s Credit Union Museum. This includes gifts from CUNA & Affiliates, the National Credit Union Foundation, CUNA Mutual Group, U.S. Central Credit Union, and the National Association of Federal Credit Unions. We extend thanks to all of you who have contributed to preserving the rich history of the credit union movement. Please take a moment as you make your end-of-year giving decisions to consider becoming a Sustaining Member or to remember to renew your existing Sustaining Membership. Your recurring annual contribution will allow us to focus on meeting the challenges ahead while preserving our rich history and values for years to come. In appreciation, Sustaining Members are granted use of the Museum Conference space and its technical resources, receive recognition on the Museum’s web-site and newsletter and have their name prominently displayed in the Museum. If you would like to discuss your gift further or have questions, please contact Peggy Powell, America’s Credit Union Museum Executive Director at 603.629.1553 or ppowell@acumuseum.org.
Thank you and best holiday wishes from America’s Credit Union Museum.

Service Credit Union Boston-Portsmouth Air Show officials donate $3,000 to America’s Credit Union Museum

Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire and the Daniel Webster Council Boy Scouts of America officials presented a $3,000 contribution to America’s Credit Union Museum Executive Director Peggy Powell.

The donation was part of the proceeds from the 2011 Service Credit Union Boston-Portsmouth Air Show featuring the United States Air Force Thunderbirds.

Proceeds from the air show also helped support two organizations, Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire and the Daniel Webster Council Boy Scouts of America, as well as a multitude of other New Hampshire nonprofit organizations including Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Daniel Webster Council Boy Scouts of America Executive Director Mike Kauffman and Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire Executive Director Steve Wade, along with Service Credit Union Vice President of Marketing Karen Benedetti, presented the check to Powell. “I am very thankful for this generous donation from the 2011 Service Credit Union Boston-Portsmouth Air Show,” says Powell.

“Like the Boys Scouts and the Brain Injury Association, the museum is a non-profit organization. These contributions go a long way in preserving our history and preparing for future activities.”

Caption: America’s Credit Union Museum recently received a $3,000 donation from the 2011 Service Credit Union Boston-Portsmouth Air Show. From left are Daniel Webster Council Boy Scouts of America Executive Director Mike Kauffman, Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire Executive Director Steve Wade, America’s Credit Union Museum Executive Director Peggy Powell and Service Credit Union Vice President of Marketing Karen Benedetti.