Rooted in Education, Invested in Memphis: Orion Financial Sponsors the Teach901 Back-to-School Bash

In 1957, a group of Memphis City Schools teachers pooled their money and stored it inside a piano bench at East High School. Their goal was simple: to help fellow educators access the financial support they needed.

That fund became Memphis Area Teachers Credit Union and, ultimately, Orion Financial—a full-service, member-owned financial institution serving individuals, families, and businesses across the region. Nearly 70 years later, its founding purpose of helping people build greater financial security remains at the heart of its mission.

That history makes Orion Financial’s role as title sponsor of the Teach901 Back to School Bash especially meaningful.

Taking place August 20, the annual celebration brings Memphis educators together to connect, recharge, and be recognized before the new school year begins. For Orion Financial, the event is more than a sponsorship. It is a return to the organization’s roots and an extension of its commitment to those shaping the next generation of Memphians.

We spoke with Orion Financial about its investment in educators, its approach to community partnership, and why Memphis remains central to its mission.

how does Orion Financial show up for MEMPHIS?

“For Orion Financial, showing up begins with listening. A meaningful community partnership should respond to a genuine need, strengthen the work already underway, and create value beyond a single event.

“That can mean providing financial education, volunteering, investing in local organizations, or connecting people with resources that create greater stability and opportunity. It also means giving our members access to competitive financial solutions and trusted guidance throughout every stage of life—from opening a first account to purchasing a home, growing a business, or preparing for the future.

“We measure our impact by more than visibility. We want Memphis to be stronger because Orion Financial is part of it.”

Why did Orion Financial choose to sponsor the Back to School Bash specifically?

“Education is not simply an area Orion Financial supports- it is where our story began. We were founded by Memphis teachers who believed they could create something better by working together.

“The Back to School Bash gives educators an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and feel the appreciation of the community before returning to their classrooms. That mission is especially meaningful to Orion Financial because it reflects the same spirit of support that inspired our founding nearly 70 years ago.

“Orion Financial is proud to help create an experience that reminds teachers how much their work matters to Memphis.”

What does supporting Memphis teachers mean to your organization?

“Supporting Memphis teachers is personal because Orion Financial would not exist without them. Our organization began when local educators recognized a financial need among their colleagues and created a solution together.

“That history gives us a responsibility to serve today’s educators in meaningful and practical ways. Orion Financial recently introduced financial solutions designed specifically for educators and school employees. These include free checking without monthly fees or minimum balance requirements, high-yield savings options, competitive auto financing, and a home loan requiring a low down payment with no private mortgage insurance.

“These are tools designed to remove barriers and help educators move forward with greater confidence—from managing everyday expenses to saving, purchasing a vehicle, or buying a home.”

What drew Orion Financial to Teach901's mission, and why does investing in educators matter to you?

“Teach901 understands that educators need more than professional opportunities. They also need community, practical support, encouragement, and recognition. Its commitment to helping teachers stay, grow, and build meaningful careers in Memphis strongly aligns with the values of Orion Financial.

“Teachers influence far more than academic achievement. They help young people recognize their potential, strengthen families, and shape the workforce and leadership of tomorrow.

“When Memphis attracts, supports, and retains talented educators, the benefits extend across the entire community. Strong schools create opportunity, strengthen neighborhoods, and give families more reasons to establish roots here. Investing in educators is an investment in the long-term future of Memphis.”

Why is giving back to Memphis important to Orion Financial as a company?

“Giving back is not separate from the work of Orion Financial—it is part of who we have always been. Orion Financial was founded by Memphis teachers who saw a need and chose to meet it together. Their example continues to guide us today.

“As Orion Financial grows, we want that growth to create greater opportunity for the city that built us. We do that through meaningful partnerships, accessible financial solutions, community investment, and support for the people and organizations doing important work throughout Memphis.

“What began with $300 in a piano bench has grown into a financial institution helping thousands of people pursue their goals. The setting may have changed, but the purpose remains the same: helping people build stronger financial futures and helping Memphis thrive.”