Season of Giving (Part 2) More Stories of Financial Institutions Making the Holidays Brighter
As the holiday season unfolds, the spirit of giving continues to show up in meaningful, often quiet ways—through volunteer hours, thoughtful traditions, and intentional support for local communities. If the first stories in Part 1 reminded us of the power of generosity, these stories show how that spirit carries forward, fueled by people who care deeply about where they live and serve.
Across the country, banks and credit unions are finding heartfelt ways to support families, small businesses, and neighbors during one of the most important times of the year.
Redstone Federal Credit Union: Community Service That Starts with Showing Up
At Redstone Federal Credit Union, giving back begins with listening.
Through Charity Finders, Redstone’s volunteer coordinator proactively builds relationships with local organizations throughout the year—reaching out early, asking questions, and identifying where help is most needed. That approach has paid off in powerful ways.
This year alone, Redstone employees have participated in seven community events, with more than 40 volunteers from across the credit union stepping in to support local initiatives. During the holidays, that commitment becomes even more personal.
Employees assist the Huntsville Learning Center with its annual Shopping Day, helping families access affordable gifts. Teams also participate in community block parties and adopt residents in local housing communities to ensure no one feels overlooked during the season. Within departments, holiday giving takes on a life of its own, like the Member Solutions team sponsoring a child through the Angel Tree program.
Redstone’s advice for other institutions is refreshingly simple: get into the community, start conversations, and ask where help is needed. Sometimes the most meaningful impact starts with curiosity and a willingness to show up.
Webster Bank: Turning Holiday Shopping into Community Impact
The holidays are filled with gift lists and shopping trips, but at Webster Bank, they’re also an opportunity to lift up local economies.
Through its Inclusive Vendor Engagement Program, Webster champions small, local, and diverse businesses across Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island. During the holiday season, that commitment comes to life by encouraging communities to shop small—transforming everyday purchases into meaningful support.
Webster highlights local makers and mission-driven businesses offering everything from crystal-infused skincare and artisan chocolates to custom apparel that supports employment for adults on the autism spectrum. Each featured business reflects Webster’s belief that local and diverse vendors deserve equitable access and opportunity and that supporting them strengthens entire communities.
It’s a reminder that holiday giving doesn’t always come in the form of donations. Sometimes, it looks like choosing a local business, discovering a unique gift, and knowing your purchase helps someone thrive.
More Ways Financial Institutions Are Giving Back This Season
Across the industry, financial institutions are finding creative ways to meet holiday needs:
- Toy and coat drives that ensure children stay warm and experience the joy of unwrapping a gift
- Volunteer-led meal programs that bring families together around the table
- Support for housing, education, and workforce development initiatives that extend impact well beyond December
These efforts may look different from one community to the next, but they share a common thread: a deep commitment to people.
Why These Stories Matter—Especially During the Holidays
The holidays have a way of bringing values into focus. They remind us that trust is built through action, relationships are strengthened through care, and communities thrive when institutions lead with heart.
For banks and credit unions, these moments of service reinforce a powerful role—not just as financial partners, but as neighbors, advocates, and supporters in everyday life.
A Season That Extends Beyond the Calendar
As this season of giving continues, these stories serve as a reminder that generosity doesn’t end when the decorations come down. The connections formed, the support given, and the trust built during the holidays create ripples that last all year long.
From volunteers in the streets to small businesses behind the counter, financial institutions play a meaningful role in making communities stronger, one thoughtful act at a time.
