We’ve all seen them: the smiling faces, the oversized check, the handshake. While “big check” photos have become the standard way for financial institutions to showcase community giving, they don’t tell the whole story — and often, they don’t tell much of a story at all.
Today’s members, customers, and employees want to see more than a photo op. They want to understand the impact of your giving, how their local bank or credit union is making a difference in their community, and the stories behind the organizations you’re supporting.
So how do we move beyond the big check?
1. Tell the story of impact.
Don’t just share the dollar amount — share what those dollars do. Does a $5,000 donation fund 100 backpacks for kids? Provide a semester of meals for a local pantry? Train volunteers for a community health initiative? Bring the work to life with photos, quotes, and stories from the nonprofit itself.
2. Show up with more than money.
Financial support is critical, but so is showing up with time and expertise. Encourage staff volunteer days, pro bono consulting for nonprofits, or even financial education workshops. These moments create richer connections and stronger visibility than a check hand-off.
3. Highlight people, not just institutions.
Feature the voices of the nonprofit leaders, volunteers, and community members directly impacted. A testimonial or short video from a program participant is more powerful than any staged photo.
4. Keep it local and personal.
Tie your giving back to your mission. If you’re a credit union focused on financial wellness, show how your support helps families budget, save, or build stability. The more aligned your giving is to your institution’s purpose, the more authentic it will feel.
5. Make community involvement ongoing, not one-off.
Instead of a single annual donation, consider partnerships that run year-round. This shows your institution is invested in long-term impact, not just a photo opportunity.
Big checks may be part of the tradition, but they don’t have to be the whole story. When banks and credit unions dig deeper — telling stories, engaging employees, and investing time alongside dollars — they move from donors to true community partners.
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