The CUNA Mutual Group Foundation celebrated 50 years of philanthropic giving in 2018 and is now poised to move forward with new leadership and a refined focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.

Founded on the philosophy of “people helping people,” the company enjoys a strong history of giving in support of the communities it serves and has increased its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion over the past three years, said Cedric Ellis, CUNA Mutual Group Foundation president, and executive vice president, chief enterprise services officer.

“Our company’s purpose is to help people achieve financial security, but without access to basics like food, affordable housing, and educational opportunities, people can’t feel financially secure,” said Ellis. “We seek to reduce educational and economic disparities and ultimately ensure a brighter financial future is accessible to all.”

The CUNA Mutual Group Foundation, now under the direction of Ellis and Angela Russell, who serves as the foundation’s vice president, will more intentionally focus on supporting organizations that address and seek to solve educational, economic and racial disparities.

Alexandra Shade, CUNA Mutual Group’s new director of corporate social responsibility, will work to support that mission.

“Alex will lead strategy and execution of our corporate social responsibility programs and initiatives, including philanthropic giving, employee volunteering, environmental sustainability, and community relations,” said Ellis. “She will also lead and manage the CUNA Mutual Group Foundation portfolio and investment strategy, building strategic partnerships throughout the communities we serve.”

To learn more, visit the CUNA Mutual Group Foundation’s website.