BALTIMORE — This year marked several milestones for the African-American Credit Union Coalition and the group said it plans to stay on track to do even more over the next year.

For starters, 108 members joined the AACUC this year. The coalition, under the guidance of Hubert Hoosman, AACUC treasurer and president/CEO of Vantage Credit Union in Bridgeton, Mo., has encouraged credit unions and others in the industry to raise nearly $1 million towards the building of a national memorial that will honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Hoosman is convinced the industry can raise another $1 million towards the memorial, which is scheduled to open in 2008. Working with the World Council of Credit Unions, for the second consecutive year, the AACUC will provide funding for African credit unions to participate in the African Congress in Kenya Oct. 30-Nov. 2.

The AACUC's internship program continues to thrive while mentoring smaller credit unions remains a mainstay of the group's mission. Three college students were awarded the coalition's Pete Crear Scholarships totaling $6,000 bringing the total to 12 students who have received the financial assistance over the years.