The CoVantage Cares Foundation is proud to announce a significant milestone in its mission to strengthen communities, having now surpassed $5 million in total giving since the Foundation was established in 2015. Through this impact, the Foundation has approved nearly 600 grants, supporting nonprofit organizations across Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois, helping improve lives and create stronger, more resilient communities.
In addition to year-round grantmaking, the Foundation has also led Giving Tuesday campaigns benefiting 98 nonprofit partners, connecting communities, donors, and organizations through collective generosity. These campaigns have become a cornerstone of the Foundation’s work, amplifying impact and directing critical resources to nonprofit organizations doing essential work throughout the region.
Founded with the belief that caring for communities goes beyond financial services, the CoVantage Cares Foundation was created by CoVantage Credit Union leaders to provide meaningful support to organizations addressing critical local needs. Over the past decade, the Foundation’s reach has continued to grow, responding to changing community challenges while remaining deeply rooted in its mission of service.
“Reaching $5 million in giving is an incredible milestone and one we share with every nonprofit partner, donor, and supporter who has made this possible,” said Charlie Zanayed, President of the CoVantage Cares Foundation. “Each grant approved and every organization supported represents compassion in action and a commitment to improving quality of life in the communities we proudly serve.”
The CoVantage Cares Foundation focuses its funding on key areas where support can make the greatest impact. This includes addressing basic needs such as food, shelter, and safety, expanding access to financial education and literacy, and supporting community enhancement projects that strengthen neighborhoods and uplift individuals and families. Through these focus areas, the
Foundation helps nonprofit organizations meet immediate needs while also investing in long term community wellbeing.
“Whether times are uncertain or thriving, the need to care for one another never goes away,” said Stephanie Bartletti, Vice President of Mission and Engagement, “Surpassing this milestone reinforces what is possible when communities, nonprofit partners, and supporters come together with a shared purpose.”
Community members and businesses play a vital role in the Foundation’s continued impact. Individuals can support the CoVantage Cares Foundation through direct donations, participation in annual fundraising initiatives such as Giving Tuesday, and by spreading awareness of the Foundation’s mission. These efforts help ensure continued support for nonprofit organizations working on the front lines of community need.
“We sure are thankful for the generosity of our employees, member-owners, and community members,” added Zanayed. “CoVantage has a long history of generosity, and the Foundation was established to increase our impact to worthy nonprofits. And increase our impact we have, thank you for improving the lives of our neighbors.”
To learn more about the CoVantage Cares Foundation or explore ways to support its mission, visit covantagecu.org.
About CoVantage Cares Foundation
CoVantage Cares Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization. Its mission is to provide funds to non-profit organizations that provide assistance to individuals, especially those experiencing significant financial challenges, and to non-profit organizations working to enhance the quality of life of residents living in the communities served by CoVantage Credit Union. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has contributed more than $5 million in grant funds to provide food, shelter, and safety needs of area residents; and have improved the quality of life and long-term viability of our local communities.
About CoVantage Credit Union
CoVantage Credit Union is a purpose-driven organization with a mission to welcome all regardless of wealth, providing outstanding value and exceptional service, work with members experiencing financial challenge, and remaining financially strong. Headquartered in Antigo, Wisconsin, the credit union has over $4 billion in assets and serves over 180,000 members-owners. Founded in 1953, the financial cooperative serves members in all 50 states with locations in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois. For more information visit: www.covantagecu.org