HERNDON, Va. (2/3/16)--A Virginia-based credit union has figured out how to invest in the communities it serves and attract new members through one program.

Through its Community Partners Program, Northwest FCU, Herndon, Va., invites local nonprofits to become “Community Partner Groups.” The partnership gives the selected organizations access to resources they need to expand their work, at no cost.

Meanwhile, once Northwest approves a new nonprofit partner, it applies to expand its field of membership, allowing the nonprofits’ employees and its members to become members of the credit union.

“It’s about Northwest Federal, a not-for-profit credit union, helping nonprofits that share our commitment to enriching the community,” said Chris McDonald, Northwest FCU president/CEO. It’s important “to find organizations that matter to members, where they live, whether that’s here in northern Virginia, or areas like central Florida where 14% of our members reside.”

The credit union provides support to its partner organizations in many ways, including through sponsorships of local events. Northwest added nine new partnerships in 2015, including one organization that supports animal rescue and a trail conservation club.