PARCHMENT, Mich.—Over the past few months Advia Credit Union said it has been helping to sustain the local economy in the regions it serves by donating $50,000 to 67 organizations in Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois.
Local branch managers and staff have been busy presenting checks totaling over $19,000 to area schools and over $30,000 to charitable organizations through its Community Advantage Program.
Check recipients are appreciative of the visits and donations.
“Advia is helping to turn elementary students into high school and college graduates,” said Dr. Michael Rice, superintendent of Kalamazoo Public Schools, Kalamazoo, Mich.
Advia said it makes annual donations through its Community Advantage Program on behalf of its members who are given the opportunity to designate one of many charitable organizations or schools to earn donation dollars. Donations made in 2016 are based on points earned by members in 2015 and are allotted according to the financial services they use each month.
“As a not-for-profit financial cooperative, we are committed to giving back to the communities that support us and to use our resources to improve the lives of our fellow neighbors and residents,” said Cheryl DeBoer, Advia president and CEO. “Our foundation was built on the People Helping People philosophy, which includes our cooperative structure, support of financial education, and active engagement within our communities.”
The CU said the donations are a “welcome shot in the arm” for many organizations.
“For example, the Port Huron School District, who received a $1,024 donation, said they appreciate community partnerships that support their students and district programs. Dr. Robin Buchler, superintendent of Mattawan Consolidated Schools, is earmarking their district’s $590 CAP donation towards their STEM program – which promotes and teaches science, technology, engineering and mathematics so that students are better prepared for an ever-changing local and global world,” the CU stated.