WATERLOO, IA (November 26, 2013) -- Veridian Credit Union hosted the Annual Mike and Leona Adams Thanksgiving Dinner on Monday, November 25 at the United Auto Workers 838 Union Hall. Volunteers prepared a feast for more than 600 people seeking a free hot meal and companionship. The Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging delivered another 300 dinners to its current Meals On Wheels recipients.
Former Veridian board member Mike Adams and his wife Leona established the free annual meal in 1982 when tough economic times were impacting many Iowans. More than 30 years later, though both Mike and Leona have passed, the tradition that still bears their name has grown. Those who attended this year were also offered a free haircut from Clip Art Corner and blood pressure check from Cedar Valley Hospice. Free transportation was provided from anywhere within Black Hawk County was provided by Metropolitan Transit Authority.
“This event has become an anticipated tradition in our community and an important part of Veridian’s history,” said Jean Trainor, President and CEO of Veridian. “We’re grateful for the many hands that help bring it together and are proud to join them in the effort.”
An event that benefits so many also requires support from many. Businesses involved include: Veridian Credit Union, United Auto Workers 838 Union Hall, Anderson Erickson Dairy, Cedar Valley Hospice, Clip Art Corner, Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, Hobart Sales & Service, The Women’s Auxiliary of UAW Local 838, Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., Metropolitan Transit Authority of Black Hawk County, Myers-Cox Co., Special Occasions Party and Event Rental and University Hy-Vee.
Veridian Credit Union, founded in 1934 in Waterloo, Iowa, is a not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members. The credit union offers a full range of consumer financial services and employs more than 575 Iowans throughout 26 branches, including 13 in the Cedar Valley. For more information, visit www.veridiancu.org or call (800) 235-3228.