RALEIGH, N.C.— As credit unions worldwide prepare to celebrate International Credit Union Day on Oct. 15, the Carolinas Credit Union League said its CUxEL Council, a leadership group for emerging credit union professionals, demonstrated the global reach of the movement’s people-helping-people philosophy by raising $9,010.06 for a computer lab and community education center in Kojokpere, Ghana.
The campaign exceeded its goal by 50% and will help complete the lab building, including its roof, while beginning to provide computers and other learning resources. Kojokpere, a community of about 2,000 that also serves eight neighboring communities, provides educational access to approximately 657 school-aged children.
Support came through 37 contributions, including six event sponsorships, five credit union pledges, four chapter pledges, and 22 individual pledges. The total includes a matching contribution of up to $2,500 from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.
The initiative culminated Sept. 10 with a networking mixer at Skyla Credit Union’s headquarters, drawing more than 50 professionals from 22 organizations. Welcoming participants and highlighting the project was Lois Kitsch, a board member of the African Cooperative Development Foundation (ACDF) and co-founder of CU Difference; Lauren Whaley, president of the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation; Allie Yearby, professional development manager for the Carolinas Credit Union League; and event coordinators from the CUxEL Council, Skyla CU and Piedmont Chapter of Credit Unions.
“As someone from Africa who knows how access to education and technology can change a young person’s future, supporting a project that will bring digital literacy and computers to students in Kojokpere carried deep meaning,” said Jasper Kumo, a Coastal Credit Union professional and CUxEL ambassador. “My hope is that the students will gain access to the tools and opportunities that can transform not only their futures, but the futures of those around them.”
“The CUxEL Global Impact Project was not merely a fundraiser, but an intentional campaign to rally organizations, credit union professionals and supporters around a worthy cause while demonstrating that emerging leaders can create lasting impact both locally and globally from any seat at the table,” said Yearby.
The initiative brought together the CUxEL Council, Piedmont Chapter of Credit Unions, Skyla Credit Union, Carolinas Credit Union Foundation, ACDF and the African Confederation of Cooperative Savings and Credit Associations (ACCOSCA). Organizers plan to remain connected with community partners, follow the center’s progress and explore future opportunities to support Kojokpere.
“On behalf of the people of Ghana and the wider African cooperative community, we are deeply grateful,” said Grace S A Watsiera, executive director for ACDF. “This generous support is turning dreams into reality—opening doors to learning, opportunity, and a brighter future for the children of Kojokpere and their community.”
“We expect huge support of the computer lab from the surrounding community and that students will frequent the new center every day,” added Kitsch. “We are filled with gratitude for the generous support of the Carolinas Credit Unions.”
Ahead of International Credit Union Day, the project offers a timely example of how cooperation across institutions and continents can expand opportunity and strengthen the global credit union movement.
