Many credit unions have lived up to the 2014 International Credit Union Day theme of "Local Service, Global Good" by expanding charitable efforts this year.

For example, the $200 million 1st Financial Federal Credit Union in Wentzville, Mo., has focused on serving the St. Louis area in a greater capacity this year by launching the Helping People 1st Grant program in February.

The program highlighted different local nonprofit organizations making a difference in housing, financial literacy, job training and education, the credit union said. Each month, employees helped to promote a nonprofit, raise funds and volunteer during work hours to help that month's organization.

As of Oct. 10, 1st Financial said it raised more than $13,000 and donated over 220 work hours to benefit these charities: Gateway 180 – Homelessness Reversed, O.A.S.I.S. Food Pantry, P.A.K.T. Community Center, Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County, North Grand Neighborhood Services, Willows Way, KidSmart-Tools for Learning and Connections to Success, the credit union said.

This year, 1st Financial also formed served as a financial partner for the young adults employed by the City of St. Louis as a part of S.L.A.T.E.'s Summer Youth Employment and Financial Capability Program.

Credit union staff volunteered to teach financial literacy programs, and to open up checking accounts designed to eliminate overdraft fees and to combat financial threats to the under-banked population of St. Lous for all S.L.A.T.E. attendees, the credit union said.

By continuing the S.L.A.T.E. partnership and creating new programs such as the Helping People 1st Grant, 1st Financial has actively helped to improve its community, the credit union said.