Message to Our Members – August 2026

(3 Minute Read) — August is here, and many of us are preparing for a new season sending children back to school, starting college, or revisiting goals that matter to us. Whatever this season brings, Unitus is here to walk alongside you with care, guidance, and support for the moments ahead.

Oregon Financial Wellness Scorecard

The recent Oregon Financial Wellness Scorecard highlights the challenges many households know well: preparing for the unexpected, managing financial pressure, and protecting against fraud. These realities can feel big, but every positive step, no matter the size, can help build confidence over time.

Read: Financial Wellness at Unitus

The Scorecard also points to the everyday pressures many Oregonians are navigating right now. Nearly three-quarters of Oregonians report cutting back on other expenses to keep up with rising housing and food costs, and more than half had trouble paying bills in 2025. For many households, that can make saving feel difficult, especially when unexpected expenses arise.

That is why small, practical steps matter. Building even a modest emergency cushion, checking in on your budget, exploring support when debt feels overwhelming, and reviewing your credit report regularly can all help strengthen your financial foundation. These actions may not solve every challenge overnight, but they can help create more clarity and confidence one decision at a time.

At Unitus, our role is to make those next steps feel accessible. From savings options that can help you build momentum through everyday habits, to financial coaching and education through Rise, to fraud prevention reminders that help you stay alert, we are here with resources designed to support real life.

We’re Your Financial Partner

Whether you are building savings, reviewing your budget, paying down debt, or planning for what comes next, you do not have to take those steps alone. We are committed to being a partner through life’s defining moments, with empathy, expertise, and unwavering support.

That partnership also includes helping members stay informed and protected. Monitoring your accounts, reviewing your credit report, and knowing the signs of fraud are simple habits that can make a meaningful difference for you and your family.

Community Matters

We are also proud to invest in education and opportunity across our communities. This year’s Unitus scholarship recipients remind us what is possible when young people are supported in pursuing their goals, and we are honored to be part of their journey.

As we look ahead to fall, I encourage you to think of August as an opportunity for a fresh start. Whether you’re focused on saving more, reducing financial stress, protecting yourself from fraud, or preparing for the school year ahead, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Thank you for being part of the Unitus community.

Steven Stapp
President and CEO
Unitus Community Credit Union