Share Newsletter: Spring 2026

In this edition of Kindred's Share newsletter:

• Kindred in the Community
• Wealth and Investment Webinars
• Kindred Charitable Fund Recipients
• Financial Tips for Grads
• Our Annual General Meeting
• The Money Wellness Score Calculator
• Fraud Prevention
• Calendar Reminders

Kindred in the Community 

Kindred builds strong relationships with community organizations, something we know our members value deeply. Since our last Share newsletter, we’ve been making a meaningful impact in our communities! Here’s an update of what we’ve been up to.

MEINZINGER PARK MICRO-FOREST
In the fall, Kindred team members gathered to plant 100 native trees and shrubs in Meinzinger Park in partnership with Sustainable Waterloo Region. This micro-forest will play a key role in building a climate-resilient community by capturing carbon, supporting local wildlife, and serving as a symbol of our commitment to environmental sustainability.

MCCO MEAT CANNERY VOLUNTEER DAY
Since 1947, MCC has been a trusted provider of canned meat for people caught in conflict and disaster. For decades, a mobile cannery served communities in the United States, Leamington, and Elmira, drawing together the passion and generosity of local churches. Over time, regulatory challenges made it increasingly difficult to continue this tradition across the U.S./Canada border and the COVID-19 pandemic added further complications. These setbacks sparked an inspired idea: to build a permanent, stationary cannery—an investment that offers a long-term solution to meet the growing need from MCC partners for canned meat in response to disasters and food insecurity.

FOOD DRIVE VOLUNTEERING
Kindred is also dedicated to improving access to healthy food here at home. This year, our team volunteered at The Food Bank of Waterloo Region, helping sort food for families in need. Our efforts helped provide over 6,500 meals to those experiencing hunger.

FOOD DRIVE
In November, our members, team members, and branch communities came together to donate a total of $60,200 to community organizations working to combat hunger. Donations exceeded expectations, with a 47% increase in the number of contributions from the previous year. Thanks to Kindred’s matching donations up to $3,000 per branch, and additional gifts like $4,200 for the Food Bank of Waterloo Region’s Milk Program, this year’s food drive was a resounding success.

WEALTH AND INVESTMENT WEBINARS

At Kindred, financial literacy is important to us. We’ve partnered with Aviso Wealth* to offer a series of free webinars on important financial topics that matter most to our members. This year, we invite you to attend one of these free sessions: 

Learn more about all the upcoming 2026 webinars by visiting www.kindredcu.com/webinars for information or to register. 

KINDRED CREDIT UNION CHARITABLE FUND ANNOUNCES 2026 GRANT RECIPIENTS

Kindred Credit Union is pleased to announce the Kindred Charitable Fund 2026 grant recipients. After reviewing 90+ applications requesting over $800,000 in funding, the committee thoughtfully selected 18 organizations across our branch communities to receive a total of $168,637 in funding. Each selected recipient organization actively inspires peaceful, just, and prosperous communities within our social impact themes: 

Including the 2026 recipients, the Kindred Charitable Fund has allocated over $1.7 million in support of 209 congregations and charitable organizations since its inception in 1999. These organizations have used the grants to support 426 projects that positively impact people and communities across Ontario. Learn more about this year's recipients and their projects. 

Graduating this Spring?
Some Financial Advice for New Grads 

Graduation from university or college marks an exciting new chapter with new opportunities, new responsibilities, and new financial decisions.

While the future may feel wide open, a few thoughtful steps now can help set you up for long-term financial wellbeing.

1. Build a simple budget you can live with.
   Your first paycheque can be empowering, but it’s easy for expenses to grow just as quickly. Start with a clear picture of your income and essential costs, then intentionally decide how you’ll use what’s left. A good budget isn’t restrictive; it’s a plan that reflects your values and priorities.
   
   
2. Start an emergency fund.
   Life happens. Aim to set aside a modest emergency fund. Ideally, it should grow over time to three months of essential expenses. If that feels daunting, begin with a small, regular contribution. Consistency matters more than the amount.
   
   
3. Tackle debt with a plan.
   Student loans and credit cards can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to define your future. Know what you owe, the interest rates, and repayment timelines. Paying more than the minimum, when possible, can save you money and stress down the road.
   
   
4. Use credit wisely.
   Credit can be a helpful tool when used thoughtfully. Pay balances in full when you can, avoid carrying high-interest debt, and keep your credit usage low. Building healthy credit habits now supports future goals like buying a home or car.
   
   
5. Begin saving for the long term.
   Retirement may feel far away, but time is your greatest ally. Even small contributions to a savings or investment account can grow significantly over the years thanks to compound growth.
   
   
6. Ask for guidance
   You don’t have to figure this out alone. A trusted member of our Wealth and Investment team can help you align your money choices with your values and life goals.

Graduation isn’t an ending. It’s the beginning of making adult decisions about your financial life. With intention, patience, and support, you can build a future that’s both financially healthy and exactly what you’ve worked for.

Join us for our
Annual General Meeting 

WHERE:
▶ Wilmot Centre Church 2463 Bleams Road, Petersburg, ON N0B 2H0
▶ Online Zoom

WHEN:
▶ Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. 

As a member-owner, you have an equal voice in how the credit union is run. For six decades we’ve been blessed to have thousands of Ontarians choosing to bank with us, entrusting us with their money and selecting us to help steward their personal and business finances. While we’d love to see you in person to enjoy refreshments and a time of connection, along with special draws and giveaways, there will also be an option to join us online. Please visit www.kindredcu.com/agm for registration and more details. 

Kindred’s Financial Health Score is now the Money Wellness Score!

Kindred’s Financial Health Score Calculator has had a makeover! We’ve taken the opportunity to revise and add new questions to help you better understand your current financial picture, with our new Money Wellness Score!

This tool continues to be part of Kindred’s commitment to values-based banking, aiming to guide you toward financial confidence. Whether you’re just starting out, preparing for retirement, or anywhere in between, the Money Wellness Calculator can provide valuable insights.

There’s no pressure or obligation. Use it as often as you like to monitor your progress over time.

Kindred’s Wealth and Investment team is here to help and provide advice, so feel free to book an appointment and take your next best step toward financial well-being today.

Try the Money Wellness Score Calculator and take the next step with confidence 

Engaging in Governance of Kindred Credit Union – Join Kindred’s Council of Members

Are you interested in contributing to the governance of your credit union? Your expertise and input are vital to growing Kindred into the future!

As a representative of the Council of Members, you will work alongside other members from our Kindred branches, responsible for finding suitable and qualified candidates to serve on the Kindred Board of Directors. This important Council meets twice a year (April / November) as they work together to support the future success of our Credit Union.

Speak to your Branch Manager about this position today! 

Did you know that Kindred offers no-fee banking for congregations and charities?

Not-for-profits can also benefit from 50% off their service fees! At Kindred, we deeply value the positive impact these organizations have in our communities, and we’re here to support that good work. If you’re part of a church or community group, or know someone who is, let them know how a Kindred membership could help them make the most of their resources.

March is Fraud Prevention Month: Protecting Yourself from Fraud in the Age of Technology

Technology is making everyday life more convenient, from faster customer service to smarter budgeting tools. Unfortunately, fraudsters are also using technology to make scams more convincing than ever. They do this by creating fake emails, videos, photos, websites, and other content that trick people into believing that they are a trusted agency, company, or individual. The good news? A few practical steps can go a long way in helping you protect yourself and your finances. 

• Phishing, smishing, and vishing often shows up as highly realistic emails, text messages, phone calls, videos, and photos. You might receive a message that appears to be from your credit union, a trusted business, or even a family member, asking you to act quickly or share personal information. These messages are designed to create urgency and bypass your better judgement. When you are being asked for personal information, or to make a decision quickly, be VERY skeptical.
  
  
• A helpful first step is to slow down. Fraudsters rely on pressure. If a message asks you to click a link, open a suspicious file, move money, or update payment details, pause and verify the request before responding. When in doubt, contact the organization directly using a trusted phone number or website you already know. Do not use the contact details provided in the message.
  
  
• Be cautious with personal information. Legitimate organizations, including Kindred Credit Union, will never ask for your password, PIN, or one-time security codes. If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your instincts. They’re often your first line of defence.
  
  
• Always maintain strong security practices: Keep your devices and apps updated, use strong and unique passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication where available. Avoid using public Wi-Fi to do your online banking (libraries, hotels, cafes, etc.). These small steps make it harder for fraudsters to gain access.
  
  
• Finally, remember that you’re not alone. If you suspect fraud, reach out to Kindred right away. Acting quickly can limit harm and help protect others in the community as well.

By staying informed, attentive, and connected, we can look out for one another and continue building a safer, more secure financial community together.

Reminders

Kindred’s Annual General Meeting
April 28, 2026
Register to attend!

Holiday Closures:
All branch and head office locations, including our  Member Contact Centre will be closed in recognition of the following dates:  
Good Friday: Friday, April 3, 2026
Victoria Day: Monday, May 18, 2026
Canada Day: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Civic Holiday: Monday, August 3, 2026
Labour Day: Monday, September 7, 2026 

 As a reminder, you can access your account online or at one of our 24-hour ATMs.