KAUKAUNA, WI (April 30, 2020) — Unison Credit Union today announced their donation of $100,000 to the Fox River Boardwalk as a naming sponsor for the Trail Archway on the Little Chute side. The Boardwalk will create a contiguous riverside walkway for Heart of the Valley residents and eventually open access to recreational trails throughout the Fox Cities. The Boardwalk project will directly impact and benefit Unison’s members living in the Heart of the Valley, and according to Unison President and CEO Mark Hietpas, donating to this project is a great fit for them.
“Credit unions were founded on a ‘people helping people’ philosophy,” Hietpas said. “So, when we were approached with the opportunity to support a project that connects people in the communities we serve, we recognized it as an investment. It’s a chance for us to positively impact the health and well-being of our members and other folks in our area, now and for generations to come.”
The collaborative project between the City of Kaukauna and Village of Little Chute began in 2016, with a variety of planning phases and fundraising efforts along the way. Bob Jakel, director of planning and community development for the City of Kaukauna, said he is excited to have the support of Unison Credit Union along with a host of area businesses.
“The Fox River Boardwalk not only connects two municipalities but connects people to the river and the water amenities that provide such rich recreational and sporting opportunities,” Jakel said. “This is indeed a crown jewel in a linear parkway stretching the length and breadth of the Fox River Valley.”
Village of Little Chute Parks, Recreation and Forestry Director Adam Breest refers to Unison’s donation as the “cherry on top” for securing the funds needed.
“Union’s donation truly had a large impact on this project, helping us reach our goal as the budget stands today,” Breest said. “It is so wonderful to have a local business like Unison Credit Union that is located in both Little Chute and Kaukauna see the benefit that this project will have not only on the City and Village but on the entire region.”
Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau Marketing and Communications Director Beth Knapinski called the Fox River Boardwalk “a fantastic addition” to the Fox Cities trail system.
“This growing trail network connects our communities, attracts visitors who are interested in outdoor recreation opportunities, and enhances quality of life for locals,” Knapinski said. “Through its naming sponsorship, Unison Credit Union illustrates its collaborative, community-centered values and its ongoing commitment to enhancing the Fox Cities – the communities in which we will live, work, play, and enjoy.”
For over 88 years, Unison Credit Union has been serving community members in the Fox Valley region as a trusted financial institution. Unison Credit Union was founded in 1932, has assets of more than $230 million and currently serves more than 18,000 members in six locations, including Little Chute, Wrightstown, De Pere, Grand Chute and two branches in Kaukauna, Wisconsin. For more information, follow us on Facebook @UnisonCreditUnion or visit unisoncu.org.
Kelli Clussman
Vice President of Marketing
920.766.6000 Ext. 2225 | kclussman@unisoncu.org
