Westerra Credit Union

Westerra Credit Union, founded in 1934 by eight schoolteachers, has grown into a financial institution with more than 110,000 members across nine branches along Colorado’s Front Range. From its earliest days, the credit union has maintained a focus on education, financial literacy and community service, a mission that continues to shape its programs and initiatives.

Over the decades, Westerra expanded its services to individuals, families and businesses while maintaining its founding principle of “teaching one another to prosper.” The organization has invested heavily in regional schools and districts, contributing more than $500,000 annually since 2010 to support teachers and students. In 2013, Westerra created its School Grant Program to ease the burden on educators who often pay out of pocket for supplies, technology and enrichment programs. Since then, the program has funded more than 1,000 projects across Colorado, supporting areas such as financial education, STEM, arts and mental wellness.

In addition to education-focused giving, Westerra launched Westerra Cares, an umbrella initiative for its community impact. In 2024, employees volunteered 1,500 hours with organizations including Mile High United Way, Food Bank of the Rockies and Habitat for Humanity. The credit union also provides annual scholarships for graduating high school seniors through partnerships with regional education foundations.

Recognizing the growing need for financial education, Westerra marked its 90th anniversary in 2024 by introducing Westerra Financial Literacy, a program tailored to the needs of diverse communities. The initiative includes classroom presentations for students, seminars for older adults and a “Financial Literacy Hub” offering digital resources. By partnering with the mobile app Zogo, Westerra created interactive lessons that “gamify” financial learning, offering incentives to participants. In its first year, the program reached more than 2,800 students and community members.

Westerra has also adapted to the demands of modern banking. A multi-year digital transformation brought upgrades to its core systems, mobile and online platforms and cybersecurity, which resulted in more than 40 percent growth in digital adoption while maintaining personal service.

Looking ahead, Westerra is focused on combining human-centered technology with personalized service to expand financial inclusion and inspire lifelong financial confidence for its members.

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