A member rewards program launched during the height of atroubled economy when auto financing was hard to come by, recentlycrossed a major threshold: the sale of the 500,000th vehicle.

Invest in America was launched in 2008 after a conversationbetween General Motors executives and representatives from theMichigan Credit Union League & Affiliates led to itscreation.

The program is administered by CU Solutions Group, a leagueaffiliate. Members nationwide receive savings on products andservices offered by partnering U.S. companies, including GeneralMotors.

Nearly 3,500 credit unions across the country, representing over80% of credit union members, now support Invest in America, according to the Michigan league.

Teri Vollmar, a member of the $1.4 billion Genisys Credit Union stepped behind the wheel of a GMC Terrainpurchased through the program at a recent commemorative ceremony atGenisys' Auburn Hills, Mich.-based headquarters, which marked thesale of the 500,000th vehicle sold through Invest in America.

“As our nation emerges from tough times, credit unions continueto do everything they can to support the American economy,” MCUL& Affiliates CEO David Adams said. “Invest in America reflects what it trulymeans to support American products, American workers and theAmerican economy.”

Jeff Edwards, GM director of retail planning and incentives,said the company is grateful to credit unions across Michigan andnationwide for their support.

“GeneralMotors and Michigan credit unions share a common goal, andthat's providing the best products and services at the best pricesfor hard-working consumers. Programs like Invest in America helpall of us reach this goal,” Edwards said.

Genisys President/CEO Jackie Buchanan said the credit unionparticipates in Invest in America because it benefits members andthe credit union movement.

“Through this program, we have yet another opportunity tohighlight the credit union difference and offer our memberssuperior service and great value,” Buchanan said. “Combining thecredit union member discount from GM with credit unions'historically low interest rates means that our members save evenmore.”