Multiplying Good A Community Impact Report
Multiplying Good in Every Way
At Dow Credit Union, our mission is clear: Act as a multiplier for good—sharing our success to improve the lives of members, employees, and neighbors while building stronger, more vibrant communities. This report is a reflection of that commitment in action.
Our impact goes far beyond philanthropy. It’s about leading through service and creating opportunities for growth and connection. In the following pages, you’ll see how our employees have contributed hundreds of volunteer hours, how we’ve partnered with organizations that strengthen our region, and how we’ve supported education through scholarships and innovative financial literacy programs. You’ll even learn a little about the recognitions we’ve earned along the way for doing business with purpose.
Every initiative—whether it’s empowering students, supporting families, or investing in local communities—reflects our belief that success should ripple outward. Together, we’re turning growth into generosity and partnerships into progress.
That’s what it means to multiply good.
Michael Goad President and CEO Dow Credit Union
Our Giving Pillars
At Dow Credit Union, we’re committed to making a real difference in the communities we call home. The following pillars help guide our charitable giving and community partnerships. They help ensure our support is purposeful, impactful, and aligned with the needs of the people we serve.
COMMUNITY WELLNESS
We prioritize efforts that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being, recognizing that healthy individuals build healthy communities.
ARTS & CULTURE
We invest in arts and cultural programs that celebrate creativity and heritage, enriching lives and strengthening community identity.
FINANCIAL LITERACY
We support education that empowers individuals to make informed financial decisions, helping build longterm stability and economic opportunity.
INCLUSION
We support initiatives that foster diversity, equity, and belonging, because inclusive communities are stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to serve everyone.
ALICE POPULATION
We advocate for programs that assist working individuals and families who struggle to afford basic necessities, ensuring they have access to resources and support.
PLACEMAKING
We support efforts that create vibrant, attractive communities where people want to live, helping to recruit and retain residents by enhancing quality of life.
Multiplying Good A Community Impact Report
Volunteerism in Action
At Dow Credit Union, we believe that strong communities are built through meaningful action—and volunteerism is at the heart of that commitment. We proudly support employees as they give their time, talent, and passion to causes that matter, knowing that every hour spent helping others creates a ripple effect of positive change.
622 TOTAL EMPLOYEE VOLUNTEER HOURS IN 2025
Volunteer Event Highlight:
Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Dow Credit Union proudly joined forces with the Saginaw chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) to make a lasting impact in our community. More than 40 employees, friends, and family members partnered with SVSU Men’s Basketball Team and local volunteers to build 55 beds for children in need. These beds went to kids in the 48601 ZIP code, where over 3,600 children lack a bed of their own.
SHP began in 2012 with one bed and a single Facebook post that sparked a nationwide movement. Today, more than 100,000 beds have been delivered through 300 chapters across the U.S. and Canada. Locally, SHP operates within Higher Purpose, part of Rescue Ministries of Mid-Michigan, providing hope and support to families.
Each build costs about $12,000, covering materials and bedding. Together, we’re ensuring every child has a safe, comfortable place to sleep.
Multiplying Good A Community Impact Report
Giving Back to our Community
We believe giving back—both financially and through essential in‑kind donations—plays a vital role in strengthening the foundation of our community. Monetary contributions provide nonprofits and local organizations with the resources they need to expand services, meet urgent needs, and create long-term impact. At the same time, donated goods help address gaps in service, support day-to-day operations, and enhance programs that meet essential needs. At Dow Credit Union, we believe that every form of giving has the power to spark meaningful change—ensuring our community continues to grow, thrive, and care for one another.
$330K 100 OVER HELPED SUPPORT OVER IN OUR COMMUNITY. NON-PROFITS
Charitable Donation Highlight:
Great Lakes Bay Veterans Coalition
Dow Credit Union was honored to support the sixth annual “Operation: Fill the Trailer” alongside the Great Lakes Bay Veterans Coalition. This community-driven effort resulted in more than 12,000 essential items donated for veterans and their families—supplies that have since been delivered to the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center to provide meaningful, immediate support. We are grateful to the many organizations and individuals whose generosity made this possible, and we remain deeply committed to honoring and uplifting those who have served our country.
Throughout the year, we also made donations to the following community organizations:
Midland County D.A.R.E.
Ecumenical Pantry
Safe Harbor Pantry
Midland Open Door
Midland Habitat for Humanity
Bay Area Women’s Center
Stuff The Bus
Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Toys for Tots
Coats for Kids
The Bridge Food Center
Xavier DeGroat Autism Foundation
JoeFM Santa Joe
Christmas Kindness
Cancer Services
Hidden Harvest
Gladwin County Baby Pantry
Junior League Festival of Trees
CAN Council Great Lakes Bay Region
GREAT LAKES BAY VETERANS COALITION
Multiplying Good A Community Impact Report
Earning Recognition Along the Way
At Dow Credit Union, our goal has always been to strengthen the communities we serve through financial empowerment, meaningful partnerships, and exceptional service. Over the past year, we’ve been honored with several awards that reflect this commitment.
The Association of Fundraising Professionals Mid-Michigan Chapter named Dow Credit Union the 2025 Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation, recognizing our leadership in charitable giving and community impact. This honor highlights our dedication to supporting local initiatives and investing in the well-being of the Great Lakes Bay Region.
We were also proud to be named one of America’s Best Regional Credit Unions 2025 by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group. Based on rigorous analysis of credit quality, profitability, and customer experience—including feedback from more than 71,000 consumers— this recognition affirms our focus on service excellence and long‑ term financial strength.
Our partnership with the real estate community was celebrated as well, with Dow Credit Union receiving the 2024 MBOR Affiliate of the Year from the Midland Board of REALTORS®. We’re grateful for this recognition and for the collaboration that helps strengthen our local housing market.
Rounding out the year, Dow Credit Union was voted Best Credit Union in the Midland Daily News Readers’ Choice Awards. Because this award is determined by community votes, it reflects the deep trust our members place in us and our consistent commitment to delivering value, strong savings yields, and personalized service.
Together, these honors underscore our promise to our members and our community. We are grateful for the recognition—and even more grateful for the people who make our mission possible.
Our Volunteers in Action!
Community Partner Highlight: Hunger Solution Center
“Dow Credit Union’s support of the Hunger Solution Center has meant more than just an investment in a building— it’s an investment in dignity, stability, and community. Their partnership has strengthened Hidden Harvest’s ability to respond when families in the Great Lakes Bay Region need us most, and I’m deeply grateful for their belief in our mission.”
Samantha McKenzie President and CEO Hidden Harvest
The Hunger Solution Center is a collaborative hunger-relief hub operated by Hidden Harvest and the East Side Soup Kitchen, two long-standing organizations dedicated to reducing food insecurity across the Great Lakes Bay Region.
The center is currently undergoing a major expansion, supported by an active capital campaign, and Dow Credit Union is proud to contribute $50,000 toward this important effort. The project will significantly increase food storage capacity, improve distribution efficiency, and enhance meal access for individuals and families in need. Plans include over 19,000 square feet of additional space, expanded refrigerated storage, improved loading docks, and a more efficient drive‑through distribution area.
Hidden Harvest serves 10 counties, rescuing millions of pounds of surplus food each year to support hunger-relief programs. East Side Soup Kitchen complements this work by providing up to 1,000 meals daily to residents in Saginaw County and beyond, filling a critical need for accessible, nutritious food. Together, their expanded Hunger Solution Center will strengthen the region’s ability to meet the growing demand for essential hunger-relief services.
SOUP KITCHEN
Community Partner Highlight: Bay Area Women’s Center
“Dow Credit Union is a treasure in our community. At the Bay Area Women’s Center, we are grateful to experience their incredible generosity through both financial and in-kind donations. More than that, though, they live their mission of ‘Multipliers for Good’ by showing that they truly care about supporting the vulnerable populations that exist in their community.”
Lindsay Richardson Director of Development Bay Area Women’s Center
The Bay Area Women’s Center (BAWC) is a cornerstone of safety, healing, and empowerment in our community. Dedicated to eliminating domestic violence and sexual assault, the organization provides free 24/7 crisis intervention, trauma-informed advocacy, emergency shelter, counseling, and prevention education. Since 1975, BAWC has been a lifeline for survivors and a leading voice for social change across Bay and Arenac counties.
Their work goes beyond crisis response. BAWC partners with schools, workplaces, and community groups to promote healthy relationships, increase awareness, and help prevent violence before it occurs. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term change, they help build a future where safety and dignity are accessible to everyone.
As a major sponsor—including title sponsorship for key awareness and fundraising events—we proudly amplify their mission. Our support also includes donations of essential items, ensuring survivors have access to necessities during times of transition. Together, we stand with BAWC to create a safer, more compassionate community where every individual can live free from fear and violence.
MIDLAND’S OPEN DOOR
ISABELLA COMMUNITY SOUP KITCHEN
SANTA HOUSE
Community Partner Highlight: Cancer Services
“Cancer Services’ years-long partnership with Dow Credit Union has been a win for local families affected by cancer. Together, we have provided many smiles and sighs of relief for cancer patients struggling to pay their non-medical bills, when they are too sick to work. We are incredibly grateful for the support of Dow Credit Union— especially our clients!”
Julie Nunn Former Executive Director Cancer Services
Cancer Services has been a trusted source of hope and support for individuals and families facing cancer in Midland since 1948. Rooted in compassion and community care, the organization provides free services that ease the physical, emotional, and financial challenges of a diagnosis. Their assistance includes financial aid, counseling, transportation, wigs, nutritional supplements, and essential supplies that help patients stay supported during treatment.
Cancer Services also supports the wellbeing of patients and caregivers. Programs like the Maria Mencia Caregiver Support Network offer education, connection, and emotional guidance—recognizing the vital role caregivers play and ensuring they never face those responsibilities alone. Through workshops, peer support, and tailored resources, the organization strengthens the network around each patient.
Our partnership helps sustain these programs. By supporting their operations and initiatives, we help ensure every person affected by cancer has access to compassionate care, practical resources, and steady support. Together, we stand with Cancer Services to bring comfort, dignity, and hope to patients and families throughout treatment and recovery.
Multiplying Good A Community Impact Report
Community Financial Literacy
MONEY ON THE MOVE
On National Financial Awareness Day, Dow Credit Union transformed the Saginaw Transit Authority Plaza into a vibrant financial education hub—removing barriers and meeting people where they are. In partnership with Saginaw Transit Authority Regional Services (STARS), we offered free bus rides and interactive learning experiences to more than 400 transit riders, turning an ordinary transit plaza into a center for empowerment.
The event featured four educational stations covering budgeting basics, credit score fundamentals, checking and savings accounts, and borrowing essentials. Participants collected stamps in custom passports as they visited each station, earning entries for prizes like foldable grocery carts and gift cards. Our goal was simple: make financial literacy accessible, engaging, and practical.
By also sponsoring a Free Ride Day, we eliminated transportation costs as a barrier, allowing riders to attend the event while completing errands. Many returned multiple times to absorb information at their own pace. We distributed more than 400 custom made financial literacy booklets and offered one-on-one coaching for those seeking deeper guidance. Conversations ranged from opening accounts for children to improving credit scores and planning for major purchases.
The impact extended beyond financial education. One attendee, new to the area and facing hardship, was connected with local resources for housing and food assistance—underscoring the power of community partnerships.
This innovative approach demonstrates that financial institutions don’t have to wait for people to walk through their doors. By meeting individuals where they are, we create meaningful connections and lasting impact. Plans are already underway to make this event an annual tradition.
Multiplying Good A Community Impact Report
Youth Financial Literacy Programs
LEMONADE DAY
Students at local middle schools participated in Lemonade Day—a hands-on program designed to teach essential business and life skills. Led by the Dow Credit Union team in partnership with The ROCK Center for Youth Development, these young entrepreneurs learned how to plan, budget, market, and collaborate to bring their ideas to life. And it was so much more than lemonade stands! Students went all‑in, selling 3D‑printed fidgets, bracelets, ornaments, iced mochas, and more—showcasing creativity, teamwork, and impressive entrepreneurial spirit.
The program culminated in an exciting day where students applied what they learned to operate their own businesses, gaining realworld experience in entrepreneurship and financial literacy. Collectively, they raised funds through their ventures, with the top stand earning over $100. By developing sales pitches, managing budgets, and working together, students discovered the value of hard work and collaboration. We’re proud to help equip them with practical skills and confidence that strengthen both their futures and our community.
PIGGY BANK PICASSO: THE ART OF SAVING
At Dow Credit Union, we believe financial education should start early—and be fun. In partnership with the Saginaw Art Museum, our “Piggy Bank Picasso” event blended creativity with practical money lessons, inviting kids to paint their own piggy banks while learning the basics of saving and spending wisely.
Our team led simple, engaging discussions showing how small coins can grow into big goals. After painting, the banks were kiln‑fired and ready for pick-up the next week—a lasting reminder of smart financial habits. By combining art and education, we’re inspiring young learners to think creatively about money and build strong financial foundations.
LEMONADE DAY
PIGGY BANK PICASSO: THE ART OF SAVING
Multiplying Good A Community Impact Report
Supporting Higher Education
Dow Credit Union has proudly supported higher education through our scholarship programs since 2013, helping students pursue their academic and career goals with confidence. Established in 2012 and first awarded in 2013, the Dow Credit Union Employees’ Scholarship Fund and the Dow Credit Union Members’ Scholarship Fund provide meaningful financial support each year to deserving students. Annually, two $1,500 scholarships are awarded through the Employees’ Scholarship Fund, while eight $1,500 scholarships are awarded through the Members’ Scholarship Fund. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden of higher education and reflect our commitment to investing in the long‑term success of our employees, members, and communities.
“It really feels like Dow Credit Union is supporting me every step of the way. It truly means the world.”
Morgan C.
Dow Credit Union Member and Scholarship Recipient
For recipients like Morgan Carter, a Dow Credit Union member and returning scholarship recipient, this support has made a lasting difference. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in ASL to English Interpreting at the University of North Florida, Morgan shared that receiving the scholarship—both during undergraduate studies and again in graduate school—has helped relieve the financial stress of tuition and textbooks. More importantly, it has allowed Morgan to focus fully on academic and professional growth, with the goal of better serving the Deaf community. Stories like Morgan’s highlight the true impact of our scholarship programs: not just funding education, but empowering individuals to create meaningful change through it.
MORGAN C., MEMBER AND SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT
Multiplying Good A Community Impact Report
Returning Millions to Members
At Dow Credit Union, giving back isn’t just a tradition—it’s who we are. Since 1955, we’ve proudly shared our success with members through meaningful rebates and rewards as part of our Member Giveback Program. It’s our way of saying thank you for your trust, loyalty, and partnership.
Our strong financial health allows us to return surplus earnings year after year. Since 1980, we’ve given back more than $332 million to members—and we’re just getting started.
STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES
Our Member Giveback Program doesn’t just reward loyalty—it also strengthens communities. By returning millions of dollars directly to our member-owners, we put resources back into local households, fueling spending, saving, and investment where it matters most. This ripple effect supports small businesses, empowers families, and drives economic vitality across the Great Lakes Bay Region. When our members thrive, our communities thrive—that’s the power of multiplying good.
HOW IT WORKS
The Member Giveback program rewards members in good standing with three unique benefits:
MEMBER SAVER REWARD
Earn a percentage of dividends or interest on eligible deposits.
LOAN INTEREST REBATE
Get back a portion of the interest paid on eligible loans.
VISA® DEBIT CARD REBATE
Receive a rebate on net purchase transactions made with your debit card.
Since 1980, we’ve given back more than
$332 MILLION
While year-end rebates and rewards occur with great regularity, this credit union benefit is not guaranteed. Not all loan and deposit products are eligible for Member Giveback consideration. Some limitations apply. Members in good standing are defined as those members who have at least $5 in their Share Account on December 31 of that year, have had no delinquent accounts, have not had adverse collection activities on their account, and have not had accounts charged off. Members who are in default or who have caused the credit union a loss typically are not eligible for year-end rebates and rewards.
“The member giveback rebate on mortgages is excellent and one of the only programs like it in the country.”
Krista D. Member
“I don’t stay up late to see the ball drop—I stay up late to see the rebate drop!”
Melanie S. Member
