Press
First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union Names Mark Cook 2nd Annual Model Citizen of the Year
Fairhaven, MA – November 19, 2012 — First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce Mark Cook as the winner of its 2nd Annual Model Citizen Award.
Mr. Cook is being recognized for his dedication and time spent helping those that are in need in the Taunton area. Mark spends his days finding residences, rehabilitation hospitals and securing the basic necessities including food, toiletries and clothing for the homeless. He also participated on Team Tom Brady for Best Buddies Challenge. Best Buddies is dedicated to creating opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Mr. Cook not only spends personal time helping the homeless but his personal finances as well to purchase sleeping bags and tents for those who are not able to find shelter.
“It is a privilege to be able to recognize Mr. Cook for his tireless dedication and service to our community” said Peter Muise, President and CEO. “Mr. Cook exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism that is alive and growing on the South Coast and we all benefit from his dedication and commitment to give back to the community. For that we thank Mark for all that he does.”
In his professional work, Mr. Cook is an active Program Director and volunteer of The Refuge, a non-profit that offers worship services, food and support services to the areas homeless and unemployed. He also serves as a committee member on Pride Workshops on the Human Rights and on the GATCH (United Way Coalition for Homeless). Mark is also currently being trained to become a drug addiction counselor. As the winner of the Model Citizen Award he will receive a trip to New York City including two tickets to a Broadway show.
The Model Citizen Award Program recognizes individuals in surrounding communities for their acts of kindness, volunteer work and efforts to make their community a better place. Several nominations were submitted during the 6-week program. Each individual was nominated through First Citizens’ Facebook page.
About First Citizens’
First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union is one of the premier financial institutions in southeastern Massachusetts. With corporate offices in Fairhaven, MA, First Citizens’ can trace its roots back to 1937 when it opened its doors as a credit union in Bristol County. Today, with over 55,000 members and assets over $550 million, First Citizens’ has full service offices in New Bedford, Raynham, Taunton, Mattapoisett, Falmouth, Mashpee, Hyannis and Orleans. The credit union offers a complete package of personal and business financial services as well as online and mobile banking. For more information, visit www.firstcitizens.org.