RCU and SSU: A Partnership to Strengthen Communities

Redwood Credit Union (RCU) is in its third year of partnership with Sonoma State, supporting many campus needs and programs ranging from the Green Music Center, School of Education, first generation college students and their parents, and Latino families, to student athletes, SSU alumni, and future teachers.

The partnership with RCU provides funding for diverse artistic experiences enjoyed by communities across the North Bay, as well as deep engagement with artists off the stages of the Green Music Center – in classrooms and community centers throughout the region.

In particular, RCU sponsored Mwenso & the Shakes, who returned last week to the Green Music Center’s Weill Hall with a message of “love will be the only weapon.”

RCU chose to support the performances of Michael Mwenso because his work offers messages of acceptance, hope, understanding, and empathy, which is important in the multicultural world in which we live. RCU understands the vital need for communities to come together and learn from each other through art.

The credit union’s support of SSU also provides critical technology to first generation college students, and funds financial literacy offerings for many audiences on the Sonoma State campus, and in K-12 schools in the area.

The broad scope of RCU’s support on campus impacts students in the various stages of their studies and demonstrates the credit union’s commitment to higher education and the performing arts.

“We’re very impressed with what Sonoma State University and The Green Music Center have done, particularly through the pandemic, to focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in terms of accessing education and the arts,” said Brett Martinez, President & CEO of Redwood Credit Union. “RCU shares these values, and we’re proud to partner with Sonoma State University to make our communities better for everyone.”

RCU and SSU are both large regional organizations collaborating to make our communities stronger and more resilient in the face of great challenges. Together, the organizations are finding the best ways to make an impact in the face of the global pandemic, racial injustices, and fires. This includes offering in-person educational and arts opportunities, as well as virtual offerings, that attract broader audiences.

For more information on the partnership or to learn how to get involved, contact marge.limbert@sonoma.edu or call 707-664-3814.