Press
United Federal Credit Union gives $2,500 to the St. Joseph public schools foundation for its annual American Girl fundraising event
ST. JOSEPH, MI (November 27, 2013) — United Federal Credit Union (UFCU) donated $2,500 to the St. Joseph Public Schools (SJPS) Foundation, sponsoring its recent American Girl® Fashion Show fundraiser. Approximately $25,000 was raised from the two-day event held at St. Joseph High School. Only 65 organizations nationwide are selected to host the event, and, as required by American Girl®, 100% of net proceeds are used to support student initiatives.
More than 900 people attended three shows, which featured 75 young ladies from across Michigan modeling clothes from the retailer’s Christmas catalog. A myriad of fashions were represented, including historical and contemporary styles. Attendees also enjoyed refreshments, special drawings, and learned how clothing has changed to reflect history, culture, and individual style. SJPS Foundation spokesperson and event co-chair Christine Waterhouse is grateful for the local support, “Without businesses like United Federal Credit Union, it would be impossible to bring this fabulous event to our city.”
Like many concerned residents, Waterhouse has a vested interest in the St. Joseph Public Schools. “This is my hometown. I’m an alumni, and now my two children attend school here.” She wants to see the schools and kids thrive while having more opportunity.
UFCU has supported the American Girl® event for four years, and it continues to be the largest fundraiser for the foundation. Proceeds this year will be used to finance a new math curriculum intertwining technology with textbooks. “Students learn in new ways today, and access to technology has a huge impact on their learning experience,” added UFCU President/CEO Gary Easterling.
“Nearly all schools in Michigan are seeking alternate sources of funding,” continued Easterling. “Our goal is to ensure students have the tools they need, like enhanced technology, to help them succeed and learn.”
With 22 offices nationwide, UFCU serves communities, schools, and teachers throughout the U.S. It currently partners with several school districts to fund local initiatives, increasing opportunities for children everywhere.
About UFCU
United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. UFCU consists of more than 120,000 Member/owners worldwide, and manages assets in excess of $1.57 billion. Its corporate offices and main branch are located in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, and Ohio. UFCU has been named the Michigan Credit Union League Outstanding Credit Union of the Year 2013. UFCU has also been named the National Federal Credit Union of the Year 2013 by the National Association of Federal Credit Unions.
About the St. Joseph Public School Foundation
Independent of the school district, the SJPS Foundation was established in 1996 by a group of passionate citizens. It is wholly run by volunteers, with a mission to raise, steward, and distribute resources to enrich the education of students in the St. Joseph Public Schools. To learn more, visit http://www.stjosephpublicschoolsfoundation.org/.