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.
Throughout the course of the conversation, Mr. Burniske learned that this sweet, spirited five-year old was fiercely fighting for her life. In a matter of mere minutes, he also learned that Julie loved princesses and dreamt of dancing with them at Disney World one day – when, as she said, "my tummy and my toes don't hurt from chemo."
"We have to do something," he said to himself as he waved goodbye and attempted to swallow the giant lump that had formed in his throat.
Throughout the next several months, Chartway organized its first golf tournament to send its very own member to Disney World. Thanks to the hard work of many and the proceeds raised that afternoon, Julie was able to enjoy a worry-free, week-long escape. At the happiest place on earth, she learned how comforting it feels to be hugged by her fairy godmother, how much better food tastes when dining with the Prince Charming, and just how sweet ice cream can be when served all day.
It was this brave little young girl who inspired us to dream big. Julie taught us that heartfelt acts of kindness have the power to deliver healing and hope to young patients battling deadly diseases. She showed us that sometimes, all it takes is a magical moment with a princess, an afternoon diving with dolphins, or the chance to ride in a big red fire truck to restore a child's will to keep fighting.
Since that time, we founded an internal charity, the We Promise Foundation, which has raised nearly $7 million to support charities that align with our mission of bringing smiles to the faces of children facing life-threatening illnesses. In fact, in 2014, our charitable arm was able to achieve a historic milestone: $1 million raised in a single year.
To ensure that the dollars we raise can be put to the greatest good, we carefully review grant applications. We measure how well the work of worthy organizations fits with our guidelines and how many children can be helped by assessing the average cost of a wish.
Our credit union family has discovered that there is truly no greater inspiration than seeing people unite to celebrate the spirit of our industry through social responsibility. It is a meaningful and sincere commitment that has shaped our organization, and we are honored to show the world what a remarkable difference credit unions make in their communities when people purposefully come together with hearts and hands eager to serve.
Heidi Worker is the corporate communication director at Chartway Federal Credit Union and its divisions. She can be reached at 757-552-1000 Ext. 43026 or [email protected].
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