When Gesa Credit Union expanded in 2019, it quickly became one of the largest credit unions in Washington State. But size isn鈥檛 the only thing that matters to Gesa. It鈥檚 how they use it to support students, families, and educators, especially during critical moments like the back-to-school season, when financial preparation meets educational opportunity.聽
Each fall, as students return to classrooms, Gesa partners with Communities In Schools (吃瓜tv) affiliates across Washington to help students start the year strong with the knowledge, supplies, and support, they need to build the lives they want. From school supply drives and block parties to community events across the state, Gesa鈥檚 efforts amplify connection and local engagement. These initiatives directly advance 吃瓜tv鈥檚 mission by surrounding students with a network of care, providing not only material support, but also the confidence and opportunities to navigate their educational journey with success.聽
Meeting Communities Where They Are聽
Over the past several years, Gesa has steadily built a statewide presence with a distinctly local touch, partnering with affiliates to meet students and educators where they are. The Gesa and 吃瓜tv WA network partnership touches nearly every corner of the state, and no two communities experience it in the same way. In Tacoma and Puyallup, it means co-hosted block parties and school supply drives that rally neighborhoods together. In Spokane, it鈥檚 a coffee truck serving free drinks to educators, where even the tip jar turns into a donation for 吃瓜tv.
Each effort, while seemingly small on its own, builds toward something more powerful: the understanding that education鈥攂oth financial and academic鈥攃reates lasting change.聽
鈥淕esa has come alongside us to provide essential supports to students and families in our community over the past eight years. We could not succeed in our work without them,鈥� said Joely Nye-Felt, Development Director, Communities In Schools of Benton-Franklin.
Eight Affiliates, One Commitment聽
Gesa鈥檚 support spans years-long relationships and brand-new collaborations:
- Communities In Schools of Benton-Franklin: An eight-year partnership, including annual sponsorship of the 鈥淧lanting Seeds for Bright Futures鈥� campaign, holiday toy drives, $1,000 in seasonal support, volunteerism at school events, and dedicated days of service.聽
- 吃瓜tv of Greater King County: A steadfast supporter since 2017, sponsoring everything from golf tournaments to breakfast fundraisers, wine and brew events, block parties, gift card drives, and this year鈥檚 hygiene drive.聽
- 吃瓜tv of the Blue Mountain Region: In their first six months as partners, Gesa donated $250 in holiday gifts for families and $1,000 in seasonal support, ensuring students had what they needed during the winter months.聽
- 吃瓜tv of Tacoma: A two-year partnership that includes event sponsorships, volunteering, and consistent presence at school events. Local Gesa representative Jayden has become a familiar face, bringing both energy and resources to the community.聽
Building for the Long Game聽
What sets Gesa apart as a partner isn鈥檛 just what they do, it鈥檚 how they do it. Their approach is rooted in long-term relationship building, not short-term transactions. They understand that real impact requires patience, consistency, and the wisdom to meet each community’s unique financial and educational needs.
Across the network, affiliates say the same thing: Gesa shows up. They contribute financially, volunteer their time, and adapt their support to meet each region鈥檚 unique needs. Because this is what it means to be a trusted lifelong financial partner.
And as this partnership continues to expand, the goal is clear: create more opportunities for students and families, and keep building trust through presence and action.
