ICU Day spirit alive and well

I was interested to read Mike Welch’s take on International Credit Union Day and the lack of enthusiasm many in our movement show (“Hired guns, single sponsors, ICU Day, and more”, CU Times, Sept. 4, 2002). I want you to know that there are still some of us who believe we have a reason to celebrate. Several years ago, as a new CEO at Industrial Credit Union (also ICU), I encouraged staff to come up with something meaningful that not only celebrated the credit union difference but also helped our community. Together we came up with the idea of a food drive to support the local food bank. We gathered the support of our local radio stations, grocery stores, car dealerships and the local transit authority. We encouraged school participation and business challenges. The first ICU Food Drive, always held during International Credit Union Week, filled the back of two pickup trucks. Each year we made changes to add to the excitement, including a cross-country drive by the morning talk show hosts with donations to cover the vehicle, gas and accommodations. Last year our efforts produced 65,000 pounds of food and over $8,000 in cash. As we go into our sixth year, ICU Food Drive 2002 will be just as special, just as much fun, and just as rewarding. Every day employees and volunteers will man the five drop-off points. We will say hi to old friends and make many new ones. We will thank the community for their donations, and we will continue to take the opportunity to talk about and celebrate the credit union difference. Happy International Credit Union Day! Terri McKee President/CEO Industrial Credit Union Bellingham, WA