NuMark Credit Union's recent random act of kindness was a welcome surprise for the Helping Hand Center.

The $194 million credit union based in Joliet, Ill., presented the nonprofit with a $500 Abt Appliances & Electronics gift card.

The gift card will be used to purchase a kitchen appliance for the Center's new Aging Program space. Developed by Marcy Minshall, aging coordinator at the nonprofit, which serves some 750 children and adults with developmental disabilities, the new program was created to help meet the needs of senior clients.

“The program is designed for our senior clients to age gracefully in the company of their friends, family, and staff in an enriched, dynamic, yet, slower paced environment. We're so excited NuMark Credit Union is supporting this program by generously donating the Abt gift card so we can purchase a kitchen appliance we are in great need of,” Minshall said.

The Helping Hand Center offers programs and services ranging from outpatient therapies, early intervention, and a school for children with autism, to high school transition, residential homes, employment services, adult developmental training, behavioral services, special recreation programs, and an aging program.

According to Helping Hand Executive Director Mary Beth Hepp, NuMark CU has been a supporter of the nonprofit for years.

“Their Random Acts of Kindness fits perfectly with their culture of giving to their local community.  We are thrilled to be a recipient of their kindness,” Hepp said.