ST. CLOUD, Minn.— The TriUnity Foundation’s inaugural gala here raised $166,000 for a unique cause–to support credit union members facing the financial burden of a terminal illness.
The event welcomed 113 attendees and marked a “powerful step forward in rallying the credit union movement around a national, compliant solution for members in medical crisis,” according to organizers.
“Formed by leaders within the credit union movement, TriUnity Foundation is the first and only national foundation led by credit unions that provides direct financial relief to members navigating terminal diagnoses—allowing credit unions to support members meaningfully without compliance risk or operational burden,” the foundation said.
More Than 40 Sponsors
The gala was backed by 43 sponsors, with many others making generous contributions throughout the evening—several giving multiple times, the TriUnity Foundation said.
“This night showed what’s possible when people and purpose come together,” LeAnn Case, board chair of the TriUnity Foundation. “Our sponsors, donors, and guests demonstrated what it looks like to lead with both strategy and heart—giving real help to members when they need it most.”
Setting the Tone
Jed Meyer, CEO of St. Cloud Financial CU, which is one of the CUs that cofounded the TriUnity Foundation, challenged attendees to “use the platform you have to make a meaningful difference—rather than waiting for the one you want.”
Meyer highlighted the Foundation’s innovative restricted fund model as a clear value proposition for credit unions across the nation, according to the foundation.
“This is a win-win-win. Win #1: You help a member facing a terminal illness focus on what truly matters—treatment, family, and peace of mind,” said Meyer. “Win #2: The impact flows back into your brand and your community—it’s one of the most meaningful ROI opportunities in existence. Win #3: The grant funds often go straight back to your balance sheet. Members can stay current on loans, and reciprocal marketing tells us they—and their families—are more likely to stay with your credit union.”
Meeting an Urgent Need–Compliantly
The foundation noted that every minute, four Americans are diagnosed with cancer—and three of them will face financial devastation. Over the next decade, it is estimated that more than three-million credit union members will receive a terminal diagnosis, impacting billions in outstanding loans, it added.
“With TriUnity, credit unions can provide real, immediate relief. When a credit union contributes to the Foundation, those funds are used directly to support their members in crisis, offering grants of $2,500 or $10,000 to alleviate financial burdens,” the foundation said. “These grants help members stay current on loans, maintain financial stability, and focus on what truly matters—treatment, family, and peace of mind.”
Compliant Solution
The TriUnity Foundation said it provides a compliant, proactive solution for credit unions.
“By directing funds to the Foundation, credit unions can offer meaningful support to their members without the risks associated with direct financial assistance,” the foundation said. “The Foundation ensures that all grants are managed in full compliance with regulations, protecting credit unions from operational strain and compliance challenges while delivering direct relief to members in need.
In addition, the foundation said unrestricted funds raised through the community, medical industry, and credit union vendor partners are “crucial” to its ongoing strategy.
