WATCH: 2023 Credit Union Hero of the Year

Amanda Merz has deep ties to the nonprofit community in the Sacramento, Calif., area, and these relationships provide deep insights into community needs.

Merz is community impact manager at $4.6 billion asset SAFE Credit Union in Folsom, Calif.—and Credit Union Magazine’s 2023 Credit Union Hero of the Year. She works with a range of organizations that focus on SAFE’s three pillars of philanthropy: education, health care, and veterans.

“Amanda Merz takes a holistic approach to her work,” says Publisher Michelle Willits. “She has a well-rounded focus on the physical, mental, and financial health of members and the community. She knows the smallest actions can make the biggest impact.”

In this video, Merz’s colleagues commend her efforts to connect with people and organizations to benefit the community.

Credit Union Heroes demonstrate leadership through community initiatives, movement advocacy, exceptional member service, and a dedication to credit unions' people-helping-people philosophy.

Also honored as 2023 Credit Union Heroes are:

• Michael Ray, vice president of business development at $291 million asset PAHO/WHO Federal Credit Union, Washington, D.C.
• Amanda Swan, vice president of community engagement and philanthropy at $3.5 billion asset Numerica Credit Union, Spokane, Wash.
• Joanne Todd, president/CEO at $112 million asset Northeast Family Federal Credit Union, Manchester, Conn.

Credit Union Heroes demonstrate leadership through community initiatives, movement advocacy, exceptional member service, and a dedication to credit unions' people helping people philosophy. The readers of Credit Union Magazine and CUNA News select the Credit Union Hero of the Year via an online poll.

Learn more at news.cuna.org/cuhero.