ST. JOSEPH, MI (December 19, 2024) |
United Federal Credit Union (United) donated more than $15,400 to 31 different individuals and community organizations across seven states during its annual Pay It Forward initiative. It was the most Team United has ever donated in the program’s 17-year history.
Every year, the Pay It Forward program provides $20 to every employee to give to a deserving individual, family, or organization of their choice. Many departments and branches combine funds and even add their own financial contributions to create a more substantial donation, further demonstrating the passion Team United has for its members and communities.
This year, employees were given the opportunity to donate to MANNA Food Pantry in North Carolina to help the communities impacted by Hurricane Helene in September 2024 and raised $8,500 to support the cause. United has five branches in western North Carolina. The Hendersonville South location was closed due to extensive flood damage and will reopen in a new location in spring 2025.
“We know the donations we are able to give to our local communities offer help during what can be a stressful time of the year,” said Terry O’Rourke, United President/CEO. “While not all of our employees and members were impacted by Hurricane Helene’s damages, it has been inspiring to see our employees come together to help those in western North Carolina needing an extra boost as the region continues the long road to recovery.”
United has been participating in Pay It Forward since 2008. United President/CEO Terry O’Rourke credited the company’s culture and the dedication to service by employees for the Pay It Forward program’s continued success.
Employees in all United’s branches, corporate buildings, and support teams raised money to benefit a variety of institutions that help children, veterans, and animals or that aid in the fight against cancer, domestic violence, and hunger. The teams also identified individuals and families struggling with illnesses and other life-altering challenges and helped those people through direct contributions.
“The enthusiasm our employees have for Pay It Forward is inspiring to see. They demonstrate their caring nature by going above and beyond to find people and causes who need extra support this time of year,” said O’Rourke. “We live out the credit union philosophy of people helping people throughout the year, but especially during the holidays. I am so proud of the dedication Team United shows every year to find ways to support and improve the lives of our members and our communities.”
