Corporate responsibility, regardless of industry, is on the minds of consumers more than ever. The very nature of our position as a credit union with member/owners means that we have the unique opportunity to shine a light on what it means to make a difference in the lives of others, both financially and philanthropically.

That's why, every day in every way, we focus on helping our members reach their goals and enrich our hometown communities in times of prosperity and need. But with so many worthy charitable organizations in need of aid, how do we determine which groups receive philanthropic support?

The answer came to us in the most unexpected of ways. Nearly 16 years ago, Ron Burniske, our president and CEO, met a young girl in the lobby of our Newtown Road branch. She and her mother were standing in front of him in the teller line. So, when the little girl peeked back at him, he knelt down to say hello. Sporting a shy grin and a pink baseball hat, she politely shook his hand and told him her name was Julie.