Associated Credit Union hosts traditionally overlooked students for college tours & sports camps with star athletes
Financial institution and its Foundation partnered with UGA Football’s Malaki Starks & Emory Volleyball’s Kate LaRocco to inspire the students to dream big
PEACHTREE CORNERS, GA (April 24, 2024) — Associated Credit Union (ACU) and the Associated Credit Union Foundation hosted traditionally overlooked middle and high school students for college tours and sports camps in partnership with the nonprofits Next Gen and Salvation Army on April 20.
In Athens, male high school students from Next Gen toured the University of Georgia and participated in a football camp led by All American football player Malaki Starks. In Atlanta, female middle school students from Salvation Army toured Emory University and participated in a volleyball camp led by Outside Hitter Kate LaRocco.
The university-led tours introduced the students to campus life, while the camps involved them in drills and simulated game situations with instruction from the standout college athletes and assistance from numerous ACU volunteers. The day concluded with lunch at an on-campus cafeteria.
“Associated Credit Union is honored to partner with these two tremendous student-athletes to inspire the youth to consider college and be active in sports,” said ACU President and Chief Executive Officer, C. Lin Hodges. “We believe the campus tours and sports camps provided a fun environment to inform these students and open their minds to the numerous possibilities for their future.”
Next Gen builds bridges for students who have been traditionally overlooked to prepare them for success after high school graduation. Through exposure to college and career options and consistent support from mentors, Next Gen opens doors and makes connections to help students discover their full potential.
Salvation Army helps fill the gap between formal education and home life by offering specialized youth programs for kids 6-18 years old. The program supports the students overall physical, emotional and spiritual well-being, as well as addressing life skills and character development in a safe setting.
Based in Peachtree Corners, ACU serves over 158,000 members across Atlanta, Augusta, Carrollton and Dawsonville. With a history spanning more than 90 years, this not-for-profit organization consistently ranks among the top six credit unions in Georgia. Membership is open to all Georgia residents.
For more information about ACU or the ACU Foundation, please visit www.acuonline.org.
About Associated Credit Union
Associated Credit Union, a $2 billion financial institution that serves more than 158,000 members at 18 locations in Atlanta, Augusta, Carrollton and Dawsonville, offers members financial products that fulfill their needs, service that exceeds their expectations and relationships that inspire their trust. The Associated Credit Union Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, provides fundraising and volunteer opportunities for employees and members to support charitable organizations. For more information about Associated Credit Union, visit acuonline.org or like and follow @AssociatedCU on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
