Ascend Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in Middle Tennessee, sponsored multiple charitable projects to support relief efforts for the tornadoes that struck Middle Tennessee on March 3. Over the last several weeks, employees raised $5,200 and donated blood, while the credit union gave 750 pairs of Bombas socks to those in need.
Beginning March 6, Ascend hosted collection days every Friday and Saturday throughout the month, during which employees were invited to donate money to support victims of the devastating tornadoes. For a donation of at least $5, employees could dress in blue jeans as an additional incentive. The $5,200 raised was divided equally among The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee Emergency Response Fund and the Cookeville-Putnam County Tornado Relief Fund.
The credit union also hosted an employee blood drive at its 520 Airpark Drive corporate headquarters to support the Blood Assurance facilities in Putnam and Davidson Counties, two areas greatly affected by the storms.
“Middle Tennessee is Ascend’s home, and when it hurts, we hurt with it,” said Caren Gabriel, president and CEO of Ascend. “It’s especially important for us to support our neighbours in their time of need. I’m very proud to be part of an organization where the employees value contributing to our community when it needs it most.”
In addition, Ascend purchased and donated Bombas socks, a brand which gives a pair of socks to community organizations supporting homelessness for every pair purchased. Bombas mailed its contribution directly to Ascend, totalling 750 pairs of socks donated to Nashville Rescue Mission.
“Sourcing new socks is typically a challenge for organizations supporting those in need, but new and gently used items are especially important in times of crisis,” said Cheryl Chunn, senior director of development at Nashville Rescue Mission. “We’re very appreciative of Ascend’s contribution which helps us better serve Nashville’s hungry, homeless and hurting.”
left: Cheryl Chunn, senior director of development at Nashville Rescue Mission; right: Tosha Price, business development officer at Ascend