Fundraising Feature: Spectra Credit Union

Spectra Credit Union Finds a “Set It and Forget It” Way to Give Back

Spectra Credit Union is proof that creative thinking—and a little teamwork—can make giving back both easy and impactful. Based in the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region, with members all over the country, this spirited credit union of 27,000 members and just under $600 million in assets has found a sustainable and effortless way to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals through Credit Unions for Kids (CU4Kids).

Their secret? ATMs.

In 2022, after attending a CU4Kids webinar, Spectra’s CEO Kristin Shultz got inspired. Why not use something already in place—their ATM network—to raise funds without straining the budget?

The solution was simple but smart: increase the surcharge fee for non-members using Spectra’s proprietary ATMs by just $1. It’s a small change that didn’t affect ATM volume, didn’t disrupt income, and wasn’t even out of line with local market rates. In 2024 alone, this easy tweak raised $2,000 for CMN Hospitals.

Best of all? It didn’t require a complicated tech lift. Spectra worked with Velera, their ATM provider, to make the change. Then their marketing team designed a bright, colorful message for ATM screens so users know part of the fee supports CMN Hospitals—a simple, transparent way to connect the dots between fee and impact.

“It’s such an easy way to fundraise for children’s health,” Chief Operating Officer Kate Brennan said. “It’s a win-win. Just do what you can to create some room for the donation. And now it’s sustainable—a set-it-and-forget-it process.”

Giving back is nothing new at Spectra. Years ago, they launched a “Good Way to Pay” debit card campaign, where interchange income from card usage was donated to CMN. Their history with CU4Kids runs deep, and it’s a cause they’re proud to support. Not to mention their long-standing history with volunteering at the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Race in D.C., a CU4Kids signature event.

The culture of giving extends beyond fundraising too. Spectra offers 40 hours of paid volunteer time off (VTO) to every employee each year, a benefit the team deeply values. Whether they’re running an ATM program or manning a Gatorade stand at events (yes, they do that too—and bring the energy!), Spectra’s staff shows up with heart.

Fundraising doesn’t always have to be flashy to be effective. Sometimes, it just takes one good idea, a little collaboration, and a credit union that’s willing to try something new. Spectra Credit Union has done just that—and made helping kids easier for everyone along the way.