At Excite Credit Union, being “the community's credit union” is more than a tagline; it’s our commitment to community development that goes well beyond providing financial services. As a designated CDFI (Community Development Financial Institution), we are a mission-driven financial institution, dedicated to providing financial services to meet the needs of economically disadvantaged individuals within underserved communities.  We do this by promoting financial literacy, supporting local nonprofits, and empowering individuals and businesses. We seek out and collaborate with like-minded nonprofits and organizations like Coastal Horizons and StepUp Wilmington to conduct financial literacy workshops that arm individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully navigate their financial journeys. By investing in these and other similarly inspiring organizations, we contribute to the betterment of the communities we serve. 

Another tool of community support is Excite's Mobile Branch, which isn't just a branch on wheels; it's a banking resource that travels within neighborhoods that may otherwise not have convenient access to financial services. We deploy the Mobile Branch to better cover these excluded communities as well as partner nonprofits, including the Food Bank of CENC Wilmington Branch and Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity, ensuring that banking services reach those who are underbanked and may have difficulty accessing traditional branches.

Excite's commitment to inclusivity is further reflected in our range of financial products and specialized checking products that offer early access to paychecks and no-cost ATM access. Our products and services were created to support the unbanked and underbanked, regardless of their financial history. Additionally, Excite helps individuals new to the U.S. navigate the financial system, offering safe, affordable, and relevant financial services, aligning with our mission to create economic opportunities and support community transformation.

Excite believes in the power of philanthropy. In 2023, Excite donated a total of $425,000 across 62 nonprofits, including our own Excite Foundation, which focuses on establishing and expanding sustainable Children's Savings Account (CSA) programs. Events like IMPACT Day, where our Team Members collectively contributed nearly 500 hours, help illustrate Excite’s commitment to volunteerism.

As the community’s credit union, receiving the CDFI designation helps validate our purpose and shines a light on our dedication to community development. Through financial literacy, support for local nonprofits, mobile banking outreach, diverse financial products, and a commitment to philanthropy, we aim to uplift individuals and communities across the Cape Fear Region. Please join us on this journey towards financial inclusion, equity, and well-being.