The History of America's Credit Unions
Community West Credit Union has proudly served its members for more than 50 years, growing from its roots as a small, employee-focused financial cooperative into a trusted community partner. Built on the credit union philosophy of people helping people, Community West is committed to providing accessible financial services, personalized support, and meaningful community impact. With a focus on financial well-being, member trust, and local engagement, Community West continues to empower individuals and families to achieve their goals while staying true to its not-for-profit mission.
History
Community West Credit Union has proudly served the community for more than 50 years, beginning in 1967 as Steelcase Employees Credit Union. Originally operating out of a small office inside Steelcase’s Desk Plant under CEO Robert Seino, the credit union quickly grew alongside its membership. By the 1970s and 1980s, it expanded into multiple locations, including its first official branch on Eastern Avenue, a 40th Street building, and the Panel Plant branch known as “The Cage.” Leadership transitioned to Diana Nash in 1987, and continued growth led to the establishment of the Kentwood branch.
In 2000, Charles Rea became CEO, guiding the credit union through a period of expansion that included the Ramblewood (Wyoming) branch and a pivotal rebrand in 2004 to Community West Credit Union, reflecting a broader community focus. The organization continued evolving with new locations, including Hudsonville and Grandville, while adapting to changing needs by closing and relocating branches. In 2011, Jon Looman stepped into the CEO role, leading major mergers in 2015 with Founders Community Federal Credit Union and Rockford Community Federal Credit Union, significantly expanding the credit union’s footprint.
Growth continued with additional mergers, new branch developments, and the construction of a centralized Kentwood headquarters, completed in 2021 despite pandemic-related delays. In 2022, Heidi Hunt was named President and CEO, ushering in the next chapter of leadership and innovation. With strategic updates, including a new Middleville location and the closure of the Hudsonville branch in 2024, Community West remains focused on evolving to meet member needs while staying rooted in its mission as a trusted, local financial partner.
First Location
Headquarters
Community West Credit Union Team 2024