Impact Stories

Over the last several years, housing costs have risen significantly across Montana, and homeownership has become out of reach for many Montana families—too many, according…

Sometimes, destiny comes along thanks to necessity. That’s how Clearwater Credit Union got its start. Eight Missoula police officers pooled their resources and established a…

When Jason Nuckolls was 12, he knew he wanted to work for himself — most likely inspired by his great grandfather, who built a lucrative…

Without access to traditional banking options, something as simple as grocery shopping or paying bills can seem overly complicated and out of reach. The people…

Nathan and Ann visited Clearwater Credit Union for an Energy Efficiency Loan because, like us, they believe in living sustainably—and powering a brighter tomorrow for Montana. Nathan…

ORI has a straightforward mission:  Supporting persons with disabilities in enhancing their quality of life. Clearwater Credit Union applauds and supports their cause. Working Together Towards Independence…

How financial institutions can give “unbankable” people a way to get back in the game — and a place to belong The words “inclusive” and…

The affordable housing crisis prompts Clearwater to finance Kalispell ROC to provide security to mobile home owners. One of the most important things we can…

A refugee family moved to Missoula from Eritrea, Africa. Thanks to the credit union, they had the help they needed. On average, it takes a…

In this story, we talk to Paul Herendeen, Director of Impact Market Development, about the focus of our very first Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). An…

Over the past 30 years, nearly 24,000 manufactured homes have found their way to Montana families in need of affordable housing*. Clearwater Credit Union recently…

As Montana developers withdrew during the recession, Clearwater ventured into uncharted waters to keep the dream of affordable housing alive in Ravalli County. 2011 was…

When the contract for a full city block on Cooley Street fell through, and the owner posted a “For Sale” sign on the property, Homeword…

University students open a campus food pantry to debunk the myth that being broke and hungry is a normal rite of passage while attending school.…

With the approval of the Board of Directors, Clearwater Credit Union announced a $25,000 donation to the Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) during the 2020…

When Sean told us about his goal of a zero-waste Missoula by 2050, we were there with a small business loan—and our business. Along with…

Clearwater and Missoula College provide a hands-on learning opportunity for students to use sustainable building technology. In the spring of 2018, Clearwater Credit Union partnered…