SELCO has always believed that communities grow stronger when people step up and give their time and energy.
This year, that work is receiving national recognition. SELCO Community Credit Union has been named a 2025 Luminaries Awards finalist for Community Impact, placing us among the top credit unions of our size in the nation and the only Oregon credit union recognized across all categories.
The honor, presented by the Credit Union Times, highlights organizations that are reshaping cooperative finance for the better. For SELCO, it shines a light on something our members and community partners have become familiar with: a commitment to helping our communities thrive.
This recognition comes on the heels of the launch of SELCO Steps Up, our expanded community involvement program designed to support students, educators, and community partners in ways that create long-lasting change. Since its launch in early 2024, SELCO Steps Up has continued to grow, fueled by a goal to see members of our communities thrive.
Throughout this past year, SELCO has invested $415,000 back into its communities through various initiatives like scholarships, grants for educators, and mission-driven sponsorships. SELCO team members have also stepped up, contributing about 1,400 volunteer hours throughout Oregon. These numbers represent more than financial support or logged time; they represent the connections SELCO is consistently making with members of our community.
“Being recognized on a national level is an incredible honor,” said Olivia Sorensen, Community Development Supervisor at SELCO. “But the real joy comes from seeing how SELCO Steps Up is helping people right now. When an educator tells us their students have what they need, or when a nonprofit says our support helped them expand services, that’s what fuels us. This recognition reflects the heart of who we are.”
A national panel of judges selected this year’s finalists based on impact, ethical leadership, modernization, and commitment to service. For SELCO, these values have always guided our work in the community and with our members—whether we’re helping an educator bring a new project to life, partnering with a community partner, or creating opportunities for students dreaming of moving forward in life.
“The creative ways credit unions solve financial challenges inspire us every year,” said Credit Union Times Editor-in-Chief Michael Ogden. “It’s always an honor to recognize organizations helping create a better world in communities across the country.”
There is more work to be done even after this nomination. We are poised to continue our work in stepping up for our community, our members, and the areas we serve. Recognition is meaningful, but the real reward is in the work itself, and we’re just getting started.
Published September 4, 2025
