During June, Central Willamette was one of 12 credit unions in Oregon and Southwest Washington that united for a collaborative Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids) fundraising campaign. Each credit union shared an online link to local stories about children who have benefited from Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals. For this campaign, Central Willamette chose to support OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland.
As part of the fundraising effort, a call for support went out to all 10 CWCU branches. At the Corvallis branch, Lisa Conner eagerly responded. She came up with an above-and-beyond way to lead the effort—raising $500 for the cause.
“I have worked with CWCU long enough to know our members well,” Lisa said. “I’ve built lasting relationships with them, and they feel almost like friends. They are so wonderful and kind—whenever I ask about helping our community, they never hesitate to contribute.”
Lisa has been a teller at the Corvallis branch for more than six years. Whenever a fundraising campaign is announced, she makes it a point to include it in her conversations with members. She knows who she can ask and always remembers her most generous donors.
Lisa expresses her gratitude to everyone who donates, regardless of the amount. For the past three years, she has sent thank-you cards—signed by her entire team—to those who give a little extra.
“Anyone who donates more than $20 receives a card,” she said. “If they’re willing to help, they deserve a thank-you card from me. We hand them out to members when they come in.”
For donors Lisa doesn’t see in person, she mails their cards. This time, she had 14 cards to distribute.
Lisa enjoys branch fundraisers because they bring the community together and encourage other frontline team members at all branches to start conversations with members.
“Every transaction is an opportunity to help people,” Lisa said. “If I can help someone, that’s the best reward for me. I’m passionate about educating people, especially young people, about money, homebuying, credit scores—everything related to money.”
Raising extra funds for the community allows Lisa to extend her list of passions to further help others in need.
CU4Kids is one of the leading fundraisers supporting CMN. Donations help fund critical pediatric cancer research, life-saving treatments, financial assistance for families, and improved care for patients at CMN Hospitals.
By the end of 2025, Central Willamette is set to donate $17,350 to CU4Kids. Lisa’s extra efforts for this fundraiser alone account for roughly 2.9% of that total.
Thank you, Lisa, for all you do. We appreciate you.