The Credit Union launched the program in 2020 and has provided grant funding to 80 nonprofits in Connecticut and Western Massachusetts
Fourth Quarter Nominations Now Open to the Public
EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — October 19, 2026 — American Eagle Financial Credit Union (“American Eagle”), Connecticut’s largest community credit union, today announced $28,632 in grants to three Connecticut nonprofit organizations through its Cash Back to the Community program. Journey Found, Inc. , Bristol Brass & Wind Ensemble, and the Hartford County 4-H Fair each received a $9,544 Cash Back to the Community grant from American Eagle.
Cash Back to the Community turns American Eagle members' everyday debit and credit card purchases into local community grants by making a contribution for every card transaction in support of nonprofit or 501(c)(3) organizations making a meaningful difference and creating lasting impact in the communities American Eagle serves. Through a public nomination and voting process, American Eagle members and nonmembers alike select three standout organizations from those nominated to evenly split the funds accumulated each quarter.
Since Cash Back to the Community launched in 2020, American Eagle has invested over $715,000 in 80 organizations across Connecticut and Western Massachusetts through the program.
“Credit unions at our core are values-based, mission-driven, not-for-profit financial institutions dedicated to uplifting our members and the communities we serve,” said Simeon Chapin, Senior Vice President and Chief Community Officer at American Eagle Financial Credit Union. “Cash Back to the Community is a wonderful embodiment of the credit union movement, with our American Eagle members and neighbors collectively helping make this program so impactful since its inception. We are proud to support Journey Found, Bristol Brass & Wind Ensemble, and the Hartford County 4-H, and we encourage our members and the community to keep nominating other deserving organizations and voting on grant recipients.”
Headquartered in Manchester, Conn., Journey Found, Inc. empowers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through safe and supportive programs. Journey Found serves individuals through North Central and Southeastern Connecticut, helping each person build independence, develop connections, and realize their unique potential.
“This generous donation will help Journey Found continue its mission of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to become all they are capable of being and live meaningful, fulfilling lives in their communities,” said Mark Perkins, Chief Executive Officer at Journey Found. “These funds create opportunities that promote independence, inclusion, personal growth, and community engagement across Connecticut. As the need for services continues to grow, partnerships like American Eagles have a direct and lasting impact on the individuals and families we serve.”
L to R: Claudia Baumel, American Eagle Manchester Branch Manager; Ishia Lilburn, Journey Found; Mark Perkins, Journey Found; Jennifer LaCart, Bristol Brass & Wind Ensemble; Sarah DiVenere, Bristol Brass & Wind Ensemble; George Udal, Hartford County 4-H Fair Assoc.; June Zoppa, Hartford County 4-H Fair Assoc.; Jen Cushman, Hartford County 4-H Fair Assoc.; and Simeon Chapin, American Eagle Chief Community Officer.
The Bristol Brass & Wind Ensemble (BBWE) develops and promotes an appreciation of music through regular rehearsals and public concerts. Composed of over 50 members, BBWE has spent 30 years making free music for all to enjoy.
“This donation will help cover operating expenses such as space rentals, insurance, licensing fees, and concert materials printing, allowing BBWE to continue its mission of music that is free for all to enjoy,” said Sarah DiVenere, President of the Bristol Brass & Wind Ensemble.
The Hartford County 4-H Fair Association, Inc., is a youth-run fair that has operated since 1937. Through a weekend of livestock shows, children’s activities, and entertainment at Four-Town Fairgrounds in Somers, Conn., the fair brings the community together and helps forge meaningful relationships. This past August, the Hartford County 4-H Fair celebrated its 90th year supporting 4-H’ers who work year-round to plan the fair and prepare to showcase their projects.
“American Eagle Financial Credit Union’s support will make a meaningful difference to the Hartford County 4-H Fair Association and the youth we serve,” saidJen Cushman, Hartford County 4-H Extension Educator. “As a youth-led organization, the Hartford County 4-H Fair provides more than 250 young people each year with opportunities to demonstrate their 4-H project knowledge, receive valuable feedback, develop leadership skills, and share the 4-H experience with the greater community. This generous contribution will help offset the many costs of hosting the annual Hartford County 4-H Fair, which 4-H youth plan and run with the guidance and support of adult mentors. Thank you for investing in our youth and helping provide experiences that build confidence, leadership, and skills for the future.”
Fourth quarter 2026 Cash Back to the Community nominations are now open through November 8. The voting period will then run from November 30 through December 13, and the top three will be selected as grant recipients in early 2027. Visit www.americaneagle.org/advice-planning/community/cash-back-to-the-community for more information or to nominate an organization.
About American Eagle Financial Credit Union
Founded in 1935, American Eagle Financial Credit Union ("American Eagle") is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution with a nearly century-long track record of serving individuals, families, and businesses across Connecticut and Western Massachusetts. Originally established to serve Pratt & Whitney employees, American Eagle has grown into one of the region's leading credit unions while remaining rooted in its mission of member service and community impact. Today, American Eagle serves more than 166,000 members, manages over $2.6 billion in assets, and operates 16 branch locations throughout the I-91 corridor, offering a full range of personal and business financial services and digital banking tools. Headquartered in East Hartford, Connecticut, American Eagle is the largest credit union serving the Nutmeg State. Learn more at www.americaneagle.org.