Scott Credit Union Launches “Community Heroes Loan Program” to Recognize Local Service Professionals Ahead of America’s 250th Anniversary

Edwardsville, IL — July 2, 2026 — As the nation reflects on 250 years of American history, Scott Credit Union (SCU) has launched a meaningful initiative to honor the everyday heroes shaping our future. The new Community Heroes Loan Program is now available, offering a specialized suite of lending benefits and exclusive financial discounts designed to support local service professionals.

This program is available to educators, healthcare workers, first responders, and active or veteran military members. By easing the path to homeownership and reducing borrowing costs, SCU is giving back to those who dedicate their lives to strengthening and protecting our communities.

Who Qualifies for the Community Heroes Loan Program?

• Educators (teachers and school staff)
• Healthcare workers (nurses, EMTs, paramedics, medical professionals)
• First responders (police, firefighters, public safety)
• Military (active duty, veterans, retired)

“While much of the country looks back at America’s 250-year history, Scott Credit Union is focused on the people shaping the next chapter of our communities,” said Frank Padak, President & CEO of Scott Credit Union. “The true backbone of our nation isn’t found in history books; it’s found right here in our communities. Our local educators, medical professionals, first responders, and military personnel show up for us every day. This program is our way of giving back to them.”

The Community Heroes Loan Program reflects Scott Credit Union’s commitment to a different kind of banking experience, one rooted in its philosophy of Members. Value. Community. The initiative delivers meaningful financial support where local families need it most, including:

• Exclusive Mortgage Solutions: Low down payment solutions and reduced closing costs to help make home ownership more attainable for community heroes.
• Built-In Loan Discounts: An interest rate discount on auto loans and personal loans to make transportation and personal projects more affordable. 
• Simplified Experience: A streamlined, easy-to-navigate application process available at  scu.org/community-heroes-loans.

“We wanted to create something that goes beyond a simple thank-you,” added Padak. “By reducing the financial barriers to purchasing a home or securing reliable transportation, we’re investing directly in the people who keep our communities safe, healthy, and moving forward.”

Local service professionals can check their eligibility, explore program details, review available discounts, and apply online by stopping by any regional Scott Credit Union branch or visiting scu.org/community-heroes-loans.

ABOUT SCOTT CREDIT UNION

Scott Credit Union is a full-service financial cooperative. When someone opens an account at the credit union, they become a member and an owner. Because of its structure, Scott Credit Union has given back millions of dollars to members through a bonus dividend and loan interest rebate over the years.

Scott Credit Union currently has 23 locations; 22 locations in metro St. Louis including: Affton, MO; Ballpark Village in St. Louis, MO; Belleville, IL (two branches); Breese, IL; Collinsville, IL; Columbia, IL; Crestwood, MO; Edwardsville, IL (two branches); Fairview Heights, IL; Ferguson, MO; Highland, IL; Ladue, MO; Lebanon, IL; Mascoutah, IL; O’Fallon, IL; Trenton, IL; Troy, IL; Scott Air Force Base in Illinois; Waterloo, IL; and Wood River, IL; and one branch in the Chicago area in Evergreen Park, IL.

For details on opening accounts at Scott Credit Union, visit www.scu.org.