The power of one voice.

Through our role as a credit union, we recognize our responsibility to advocate for our members’ financial wellbeing. To do this, our Advocacy & Action team works to support policies and laws that advance the greater good.

A young boy sits on a toy tractor by his parents
There’s power in creating connections. In sharing our work. And in building a network of supporters. As advocates for credit unions and Michigan residents, we work to educate and inform policymakers of the overall state of financial wellness and wellbeing in our state. We keep a close eye on current legislative proposals and advocate for policies focused on creating more opportunities in our communities.
WORKING TOGETHER

The credit union difference.

WORKING TOGETHER

The credit union difference.

As a credit union, we are a nonprofit cooperative owned by its members. Together as an industry, we work with other local institutions to enhance financial wellbeing and provide safe, regulated financial alternatives to those who may have been turned down by banks.

Though credit unions are tax exempt at a federal level, they are still responsible for local and state taxes. Using the savings from their tax-exempt status, credit unions bring value to their members in the form of lower rates and fees, more favorable savings rates, and reinvestment in local communities instead of distributing profits to shareholders (as banks do).1 As of 2024, credit unions served 60 percent of state residents in Michigan.1

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ADVOCACY

Working to make a positive impact.

ADVOCACY

Working to make a positive impact.

By working with government officials at the local, state, and national level, we create awareness around how credit unions enhance financial wellbeing for individuals, families, and small businesses. We’re not affiliated with one specific political party because we recognize that progress happens when policies and issues are examined on an individual, non-biased basis.
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Supporting Lake Trust’s CDFI status.

Lake Trust is one of only a few Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) in Michigan. This means that Lake Trust is recognized by the U.S. Department of Treasury as a financial institution that is expanding economic opportunities in low-income communities. This designation allows us to receive grants and participate in specialized programs that support local communities. Our Advocacy team works with others in the organization to support initiatives and programs that align with our CDFI designation.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CDFI
ADVOCACY WORK

Affordable housing initiatives.

ADVOCACY WORK

Affordable housing initiatives.

Everyone deserves the chance to experience the power of home. And that’s why we’re outspoken supporters of affordable housing initiatives and projects. As the driving force behind Michigan HB 4812, we advocated for home buyers working with Habitat for Humanity of Michigan to have their property taxes calculated at a reasonable rate. To support this effort, we now offer a unique home loan solution for individuals working with the nonprofit.
A Lake Trust team member speaks at a podium
IMPACT IN ACTION

Additional income for Michigan families.

IMPACT IN ACTION

Additional income for Michigan families.

As part of a collective advocacy group, we recently worked to increase the amount refunded to low- and moderate-income families through the Earned Income Tax Credit. Additional income for the Michigan households that need it most could increase the number of meals on the table, help pay down debt, provide necessities for children, and more.
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1Michigan Credit Union League. (2025). Michigan Credit Union Impact Report. Retrieved from https://www.mcul.org/client/MCUL/2025-MCU-Impact-Report/

Noteworthy News

Together with our members, business partners, and community supporters, we're working to make a positive impact in Michigan. Learn more about our latest projects, community wellbeing efforts, and initiatives to create stronger neighborhoods right here in Michigan.

Five Individuals Receive Career Support Through Lake Trust Foundation Scholarship Program

Meet the 2024 Lake Trust Foundation Scholarship recipients and learn more about their plans to make an impact in Michigan.

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9 Ways to Have a Fun and Cheap Family Vacation

If you’re ready to break down the cubicle walls it might be time for a getaway. Here’s tips on how to travel on a budget.

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One Act. Big Impact. The Raffle That Gives Back.

You could win up to $20,000 in the Lake Trust Credit Union Foundation Raffle AND help support wellbeing initiatives in Michigan communities.

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Helping others on their self-care journey.

Sylvia's Sudsery, LLC of Lansing offers artisan soaps, bath bombs, foaming sugar scrubs, and more. But, the heart of Sylvia's Sudsery is to create an accepting and inclusive space that supports others on their self-care journey.

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