About the Foundation
Originally established to promote financial literacy initiatives in our communities, the Wings Financial Foundation has expanded its mission to include supporting our communities in times of need.
Founded in 2010
In the years since, the Foundation has grown steadily to expand its programs and reach a wider range of individuals.
A Non-Profit Organization
The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, where contributions directly fund Foundation initiatives.
Investing Time & Money
In addition to Foundation-led programs, we support local organizations through monetary donations and volunteering.
The Foundation's Mission/Vision
The Foundation's focus is aligned with our core value of supporting and meeting the needs of the communities we serve.
Our Mission: Empower individuals in the communities we serve through education and support in times of need.
Our Vision: Create an environment where people realize their financial dreams and communities thrive.
Our Core Values
Servants Heart
Support and meet the needs of the communities we serve.
Honesty and Integrity
We do the right thing, even when it’s hard and no one is watching.
Creativity
Continuously look for new and innovative ways to support the communities we serve during times of hardship.
Diversity and Inclusion
We embrace the power of diverse opinions and perspectives to fulfill our mission.
Who Can Apply
Wings provides funding to various nonprofits that fall into any of the following impact categories:
- Youth: Primary program impact focuses on children and young people, with an emphasis on early childhood development, mental and behavioral health, and access to essential needs such as stable housing and nutritious food.
- Education: Primary program impact supports financial education and lifelong learning at all levels, with a focus on programs that equip individuals, especially high school and college students, with the knowledge and tools to build strong financial futures. This includes support for scholarships at colleges and universities.
- Community: Primary program impact addresses major community issues with a focus on community enrichment, attainable housing, food insecurity, homelessness and/or poverty.
- Legacy: Primary program impact does not fit into any categories above but may continue to receive support based on our heritage.
The Application Process
To apply, you must submit an application through Wings’ online grant portal. Requests and/or applications submitted through email and mail will not be accepted.
The funding application includes, but is not limited to:
- Nonprofit details and program information
- Geographic impact
- Community impact if funding is given
- Volunteer information for Ent employees
- Prior exposure and/or relationship with Ent
For assistance navigating the application portal, please contact the Community Impact Team at communityadvocacy@ent.com.
Evaluation Criteria
Funding requests are reviewed by the Community Advocacy Decision Committee on a quarterly basis. Collectively, the committee reviews the application and scores the application based on Wings’ guidelines, impact categories (see step A above) and a decision matrix to determine an amount to award the requester, if any. The decision matrix includes criteria such as:
- Geographical reach
- Due diligence and impact if funding was awarded
- Volunteer opportunities available
Once the Decision Committee meets, nonprofit organizations will receive an email from Wings regarding their decision. If awarded, a check will be delivered through Benevity.
Have a question?
Click the link below and our knowledgeable team will get back to you as soon as we can.
If you have questions regarding membership or other Wings Credit Union Products, please email info@wingsfinancial.com.