In 2016, the National Credit Union Foundation organized its first DE Day of Service. To take place on the second Wednesday in June annually, the day is meant to encourage Credit Union Development Educators (CUDEs) across the country to work individually or collectively to complete a project to improve the lives of others. DEs across the country have donated needed supplies and prepared meals for local community children’s homes, participated in local tournaments to raise funds for charity organizations, and conducted youth financial education training seminars for children 12 and under.
Over the years, DE Day of Service has expanded to not just DEs but a day of service for the credit union system. I had the pleasure of having a conversation with Christopher Morris, VP of Member Councils at America’s Credit Unions, on the Foundation’s Empowering Impact podcast. We talked about how important Development Educator (DE) projects are and the difference they can make in our communities and members’ lives.
One of his projects for the last 11 years has been coordinating group volunteer efforts in the Madison, WI area. “People love to volunteer but they just need someone to say hey, show up at the food pantry at 2 o’clock on Thursday, let’s go and most people will do it. I think people get overwhelmed and are busy. I’ve been the connector in making sure people have the opportunity.” Morris noted. Morris has coordinated monthly volunteer outings including helping Dane County’s busiest food pantry, River Food Pantry, coordinating birthday supplies for Box of Balloons, and packing diapers for a local diaper bank to name a few.
The National Credit Union Foundation and DE community are here to help. Not only does this network of leaders from all levels provide you with connections and ideas, they are also the best ones to connect with to put your project ideas into action.
Credit unions, large and small, have a unique opportunity to showcase the true purpose and passion of the credit union difference. Keep that flame burning brightly and share the stories of how you are impacting your members’ lives. Together, we can unite to make all the difference in people's financial lives!
How will you make an impact on June 11?
Visit https://www.ncuf.coop/development-education/day-service/ for more information and ideas on DE Day of Service.
