CUs in the News

Aspire Credit Union celebrates Minot’s local food scene, while First Community Credit Union launches a new foundation to expand charitable giving and strengthen communities for generations.

CUs in the News is a spotlight series celebrating the incredible work happening across our Dakota credit unions. From standout promotions and community giveback efforts to innovative programs and member-focused initiatives, this series will showcase how our credit unions live out the “people helping people” philosophy each and every day.
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Aspire Announces New Downtown Event
Minot's local food scene will take center stage as Aspire Credit Union presents Minot's Best Bites which will debuts on Thursday, August 27, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. in Citizens Alley, Downtown Minot. The inaugural event is designed to celebrate the local restaurants, bakeries, and specialty food businesses that help shape the community.

Guests will have the opportunity to sample a signature dish from participating vendors for just $2 per sample, making it an affordable way to discover new favorites, reconnect with longtime local staples, and experience the diverse flavors Minot has to offer. Proceeds from each sample will benefit Independence Inc., reinforcing the event's commitment to strengthening the local community.

"When we choose to support local businesses, we're investing in our neighbors, our local economy, and the future of our community," said Rianne Kuhn, Director of Marketing and Community Impact at Aspire Credit Union. "This event is about showcasing the people who pour their passion into serving our community every day. We hope Minot's Best Bites inspires residents to discover a new favorite restaurant, revisit a local classic, and recognize the incredible talent we have right here in our own backyard."

Created with a community-first mindset, Minot's Best Bites aims to become an annual tradition that celebrates local entrepreneurship, strengthens connections between businesses and residents, and highlights the value of keeping dollars local. The event will feature a local DJ, Tol1ver. Information on pre-sale tickets, and the release of each vendors signature dish will be coming soon. Be sure to track updates at minotsbestbites.com, and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MinotsBestBites.

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Introducing the FCCU Community Foundation.
First Community Credit Union (FCCU) is proud to announce the launch of the First Community Credit Union Foundation, a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to expand FCCU's long-standing commitment to strengthening the communities it serves.

Guided by FCCU's mission to strengthen community by helping members grow and thrive, the Foundation will invest in programs and partnerships that create lasting impact across North Dakota and western Minnesota. Through strategic giving and community collaboration, the Foundation will focus on three key pillars: Community Enrichment, Education, and Health & Stability.

The Foundation has been years in the making. For more than a decade, FCCU President & CEO Steve Schmitz envisioned a way to deepen the credit union's investment in the communities it calls home by creating an organization dedicated solely to charitable giving and community impact.

"This foundation isn't just about giving," said Schmitz. "It's about multiplying the impact we can make. It's about going beyond one-time contributions and creating something lasting that reflects who we are at our core and our vision to strengthen community by helping members grow and thrive."

While community involvement has always been central to FCCU's mission, the Foundation creates a lasting framework to expand those efforts for generations to come. FCCU has already committed initial funding to launch the Foundation, with additional fundraising and community support to help grow its impact over time.

The Foundation will focus its giving in three key areas:

• Community Enrichment – Supporting programs, organizations and facilities that enhance the vibrancy, connection and quality of life within local communities.
• Education – Investing in learning opportunities that empower individuals of all ages to build brighter futures.
• Health & Stability – Strengthening organizations and initiatives that promote physical, emotional and financial well-being.

Grant applications are expected to open in January 2027 and will be reviewed quarterly by the Foundation's Board of Directors. Eligible nonprofit organizations and community initiatives that align with the Foundation's funding priorities will be invited to apply.

To celebrate its launch, the Foundation will host its inaugural fundraising event, Dueling for a Difference, on Saturday, September 26 in Jamestown. The evening will feature entertainment by Fun Pianos!, live and silent auctions, dinner and opportunities for community members to support the Foundation's mission while enjoying a memorable night together.

"The Foundation is a reflection of who we are as a credit union," Schmitz said. "By investing in our communities today, we're helping create stronger, healthier communities for generations to come."

For more information about the First Community Credit Union Foundation, visit myfccu.com/foundation.


Aspire Credit Union has proudly served the Minot area communities for over 88 years. As a non-profit and member-owned financial institution, its goal is to provide the best possible service, products, and rates to meet the unique needs of its members. Serving several counties in North Dakota, including Bottineau, McHenry, McLean, Mountrail, Renville, and Ward, Aspire Credit Union is committed to the well-being of its community. Plus, with federal insurance by NCUA, you can trust that your money is in good hands.

First Community Credit Union (FCCU) is a member-owned financial cooperative serving more than 46,000 members across North Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota. With $1.5 billion in assets and 27 locations, FCCU provides a full range of personal, business, mortgage, and digital financial services. Since 1939, FCCU has remained committed to helping members and communities thrive through trusted financial guidance, local decision-making, and a people-first approach. Learn more at myFCCU.com.

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