PROVIDENCE, R.I. – The Credit Unions of Rhode Island recently presented a $95,000 donation to its charitable partner, Special Olympics Rhode Island. The organization provides more than 1,600 year-round sports training and athletic competition opportunities to over 4,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities as a means to achieve physical fitness, self-esteem and the life skills necessary to be productive, respected and contributing members of their communities.
The amount raised marks a 23-year total of more than $1.3 million raised by the state’s credit unions, members of the Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA). The Credit Unions of Rhode Island are the second largest corporate partner of Special Olympics Rhode Island.
In a time where social distancing and limited in-person gatherings are the norm, the check presentation included participation from Rhode Island Lt. Governor Daniel McKee; credit union CEOs and representatives from the safety of their remote locations as a “virtual” event live streamed that can be watched at CUs of RI Inspire Greatness Check Presentation. The agenda included via video a congratulatory message from CCUA President/CEO Ronald McLean and highlighted personal moments and memories from Credit Unions of Rhode Island CEOs.
“The Credit Unions of Rhode Island continue to be strong advocates for the athletes of Special Olympics Rhode Island,” said Special Olympics Rhode Island CEO Dennis DeJesus. “Their financial support ranks annual in the top 3 for corporate sponsorships based on giving levels. Through their generosity and support, we continue to provide athletic opportunities even during these most difficult times. We are proud of this partnership and thank each credit union in our state for their unwavering support of the greatest athletes in the world – the athletes of Special Olympics Rhode Island.”
Added Rhode Island Lieutenant Governor Daniel McKee, who was part of the Credit Unions of Rhode Island Inspire Greatness virtual check presentation with Special Olympics Rhode Island, “As Lieutenant Governor, I am privileged to have strong relationships with the Credit Unions of Rhode Island and Special Olympics. And while both groups provide very different services in our state, here is one thing that I have seen they have in common . . . they put community first. And for their commitment to our state and the people who call it home, I cannot thank them enough. This announcement of $95,000 could not come at a better time as we could all use some positive news these days! Now more than ever, local organizations like Special Olympics Rhode Island need our support. So, thank you to the credit unions for making this donation to Special Olympics Rhode Island.”
The donation was a collaborative effort by the Credit Unions of Rhode Island through a series of state-wide and local fundraising initiatives.
“The Credit Unions of Rhode Island through the Social Responsibility Committee do a tremendous job every year in their support of Special Olympics Rhode Island,” said CCUA President/CEO Ronald McLean. “Their efforts are a true testament to their dedication to the athletes who benefit from this donation. The courage, the determination, the strength and the achievements that Special Olympics Rhode Island athletes accomplish through the sheer joy of sports training and competition is the inspiration that drives the Credit Unions of Rhode Island to be part of a great cause with a powerful mission.”
According to Credit Unions of Rhode Island Social Responsibility Committee Chairman David Dupéré, “Our credit unions have developed a unique bond with Special Olympics athletes through our fundraising efforts and the Summer Games, as well as many of our own personal and family connections. Our committee has volunteered and raised more than $1.3 million over the years.”