SEATTLE — The AACUC's Pete Crear Fund is moving forward at a steady pace since its launch nearly two years ago.

Launched in 2004, the fund now has $9.5 million invested. Administered through the National Credit Union Foundation, it helps the AACUC with a number of projects including assisting credit unions impacted by Hurricane Katrina; sponsors several credit union executives in Africa to attend training institutes in Nairobi, Kenya; and helps offset costs for the coalition's internship program, which has seen the placement of 40 interns this summer.

According to Hubert Hoosman, AACUC treasurer and president/CEO of Vantage Credit Union, the fund has become the second or third largest donor-designated fund in the credit union industry. Hoosman said plans are to double the fund by this time in 2007.

“We're not asking just to give money but to share interest,” Hoosman said, adding NCUF has been pivotal in ensuring the fund's success.

In 2005, the fund distributed more than $33,000.