Hamilton, ON – May 2026 – The Ontario Credit Union Foundation (OCUF) is proud to recognize PenFinancial Credit Union as the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Corporate Achievement Award in recognition of their exceptional and sustained commitment to community investment.
The award recognizes organizations whose investment in the community exceeds normal expectations through impactful projects, long-term community engagement, or innovative new initiatives. As an active member of OCUF, PenFinancial was selected for its ongoing and deeply embedded commitment to improving lives and strengthening communities through its Truly Local Commitment (TLC).
Since formally launching TLC in 2018, PenFinancial has reinvested more than $1.7 million into local communities, supported more than 120 grassroots organizations, and contributed over 6,000 volunteer hours in the past three years alone. Their community impact spans charitable giving, employee-led volunteerism, financial education initiatives, environmental responsibility, and accessible community partnerships.
“PenFinancial exemplifies what it means to live the cooperative values of the credit union system,” said Rea Vriends, Executive Director of the OCUF. “Their commitment to community is not occasional or transactional – it is woven into the culture of the organization and demonstrated consistently.”
Among the initiatives highlighted in the nomination were the Truly Local Ambassador volunteer program, the Truly Local Grant Program, the Bob Watson Community Room, their participation in the Each One Teach One financial education initiative, and the recent launch of a Community Referral Program that gives back directly to local charities.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition from OCUF,” said Kerry Ould, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, PenFinancial. “Supporting our communities has always been central to who we are as a credit union. This award reflects the passion of our employees, the support of our leadership and Board, and the incredible organizations we are privileged to work alongside every day.”
The Ontario Credit Union Foundation congratulates PenFinancial Credit Union on this well-deserved recognition and thanks them for their continued leadership in strengthening communities across Ontario.