press releases

The Van Buren Branch in Arkansas donates to the Almost Home Shelter

ST. JOSEPH, Mich. – United Federal Credit Union (United) donated more than $14,200 to 54 different individuals and community organizations across six states during its 16th annual Pay It Forward initiative.

Every year, the Pay It Forward program provides $20 to every employee to give to a needy individual, family, or organization of their choice. Many departments and branches combined funds and even added their own financial contributions to create a more substantial donation, further demonstrating the passion Team United has for its members and communities.

The program began in 2008 with a request from employees that they use the money otherwise spent on internal holiday celebrations to help people in the community. In the first year, United raised $5,000.

United President/CEO Terry O’Rourke credited the company’s culture and the dedication to service by employees for the Pay It Forward program’s continued success.

“We love seeing how each individual and department plans out how these dollars can offer extra help in our communities during the holiday season,” said O’Rourke. “Each year, Team United finds a way to offer a helping hand and make sure our communities know how much we appreciate and support them.”

Employees in all United’s branches, corporate buildings, and support teams raised money to benefit a variety of institutions that help children, veterans, and animals or that aid in the fight against cancer, domestic violence, and hunger. The teams also identified individuals and families struggling with illnesses and other life-altering challenges and helped those people through direct contributions.

“The enthusiasm our employees have for Pay It Forward is inspiring to see. They demonstrate their caring nature by going above and beyond to find people and causes who need extra support this time of year,” said O’Rourke. “We live out the credit union philosophy of people helping people throughout the year, but especially during the holidays. I am so proud of the dedication Team United shows every year to find ways to support and improve the lives of our members and our communities.”

About United

United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. United consists of more than 194,000 Member/owners worldwide and manages assets in excess of $4 billion. Its corporate office and main branch are in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal opportunity lender. Equal housing lender. For more information visit UnitedFCU.com