JACKSON, Mich. – Michigan credit unions are once again stepping up to deliver vital financial education resources across the state through the Michigan Credit Union Foundation (MCUF)-funded Smart Money Kids Read program.
The TRUE Community Credit Union leadership team participated in a book packing event for the Smart Money Kids Read program. More than 17,000 books were made available this year – more than 9,000 for credit unions and just over 8,000 for public libraries across the state – and will be used throughout March for Reading Month and April for Financial Wellness Month. The Smart Money Kids Read program is a longtime partnership between Michigan credit unions and the Michigan Financial Wellness Network.
Nearly 150 libraries will be receiving books, partnering with more than 50 Michigan credit unions. Libraries receiving these books are encouraged to use them for story time sessions, and every student who attends these financial wellness sessions will be able to take home a free book to help inspire a lifelong love of reading and a foundational understanding of financial wellness. The 2026 book is “How Do You Spend?” by Cinders McLeod.
“Building strong financial futures starts with the youngest members of our communities,” said MCUF Executive Director Andrea Tucker. “Through our Smart Money Kids Read program, Michigan credit unions are helping introduce important money concepts in a way that’s fun, engaging, and accessible for families. By partnering with public libraries, credit unions are helping spark conversations about saving, spending, and financial confidence that can last a lifetime.”
TRUECCU is excited to kickoff Reading Month by distributing 200 books to students and TRUECCU partners. Also throughout the month, the TRUECCU Financial Education team will be offering 10 book bundles as part of a social media giveaway. This generous commitment ensures that even more young Michiganders will have access to valuable financial education resources.
Below, from left: Valerie Moskal, Chief Growth and Lending Officer; Lance Schnitkey, Chief Financial Officer; Heather Colonius, Chief Member Experience Officer; Chrissy Siders, President and CEO; Brandi Cole, Chief Risk Officer; Sarah Ermatinger, Chief Community Impact Officer; Jason Matley, Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer; and Brittany Rumple, Executive Business Partner and Internal Communications Specialist.
