Social work students strengthen partnership with Honor Credit Union’s Community Connection Center

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Students in Western Michigan University’s macro social work course, SWRK 4010: Task Groups and Organizations, continued their partnership with Honor Credit Union’s Community Connection Center during a field visit on Nov. 17, 2025. The experience supported the course’s focus on understanding how organizations operate and how social workers contribute to community-centered systems.

Honor Credit Union: A Model of Community Investment

Honor Credit Union demonstrated how financial institutions can serve as active community partners through its recent initiatives, including:

• Economic Empowerment: $1.9 million distributed in interest and dividends to members.
• Housing Support: Assistance with 602 mortgages, helping families secure stable housing.
• Educational Advancement: 3,000 academic scholarships awarded and $20,000 in classroom supplies donated to local schools.
• Community Collaboration: Support for 489 local organizations and hosting 225 community events across the region.

Located in downtown Kalamazoo, the Community Connection Center remains a valuable public resource—open to everyone regardless of membership. The space offers quiet study areas, financial tools, and hosts community events such as the monthly Art Hop. Its close proximity to the State Theatre and Helping Hands Wellness Center reinforces its role as a hub for creativity, connection, and well-being.

Learning Through Engagement

The visit, guided by instructor Christopher Hodshire and his team, highlighted the importance of experiential learning in social work education. Students engaged in:

• A guided tour of the Community Connection Center
• Conversations with Honor staff about organizational structure, logistics, and outreach
• A brief walking tour of downtown Kalamazoo to observe local strengths and challenges
• Warm hospitality, including snacks, hot cocoa, and gift bags

Students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to interact with professionals who are actively shaping community well-being. Many noted that Honor Credit Union exemplifies how organizations can move beyond financial services to become meaningful partners in community progress.