ORLANDO, Fla. – For its efforts in establishing a comprehensive disaster preparedness program for its more than 300 employees, the mayor of Orlando has proclaimed Dec. 8th `Central Florida Educators' Federal Credit Union Day.' The credit union received an award from the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) during their recent annual conference here on the strong recommendation from the Office of Emergency Management for the City of Orlando. Mayor Buddy Dyer along with other officials were on hand to present the proclamation to CFEFCU President/CEO Joe Melbourne on Dec. 8. "We always had a disaster program in place but when Y2K came around, we started working on it to a greater degree," Melbourne said. "I'm so happy and proud of the (credit union's) staff because it took a lot of work to be recognized." The IAEM was impressed with the credit union's program saying it measured up to programs at major corporations, Melbourne said. What makes the employee guide stand out beyond being the typical reference point to facilitate recovery in the event of a disaster is its user-friendly appeal, Melbourne said. "We can honestly say that having the guide provides a sense of comfort in the event of a disaster," Melbourne said. "Every organization, not just credit unions, should have one in place." Likewise, having a solid disaster plan in place frees up Orlando's emergency staff to help others in distress, Melbourne explained. The Mayor's proclamation comes on the heels of the credit union's recent $100,000 donation to 10 Orange County schools to refurbish libraries in desperate need of new books and computers. Another $400,000 will be donated to more schools here over the next few years to replenish library shelves, Melbourne said. The credit union serves more than 100,000 members and has $775 million in assets.