MILWAUKIE, Ore.–Clackamas Federal Credit Union has been awarded the 2022 1st place national Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Award for social responsibility in credit unions.
The 1st place national award recognizes Clackamas’ dedication to supporting and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the community and meeting the needs of the most vulnerable groups, the credit union said.
“Over the past several years, Clackamas has worked to create inclusion and opportunity for an often-overlooked segment of the population, individuals with cognitive disabilities,” CFCU stated. “There an estimated 16 million individuals in the United States that face the unique financial and societal circumstances associated with cognitive disabilities. The partnerships and programs Clackamas has formed seek to address the immediate and long-term needs of these individuals, provide opportunities for their inclusion and success in the larger community, and celebrate their remarkable achievements.”
One of the community partnerships that Clackamas has developed is with Exceed Enterprises, a local nonprofit serving Oregonians of diverse abilities through vocational, recreational, and personal development services.
“Clackamas’ support makes a major difference in the lives of hundreds of people with diverse abilities,” said former Exceed Enterprises CEO Stephen Achilles. “And this is just one of the many ways Clackamas makes our community better.”
The Accomplishments
Accomplishments that were considered:
- Fundraising. In 2021 and early 2022, Clackamas has raised more than $113,400 for organizations focused on supporting and empowering people with diverse abilities in our communities.
- Volunteer Hours. Clackamas staff have volunteered a total of 688 hours participating in fundraising events like Special Olympics Polar Plunge and Plane Pull, coaching Special Olympics athletes, and serving on Boards, Committees, and Young Professional Councils for organizations like Special Olympics and Exceed Enterprises.
- Financial Literacy Programs. In 2021 and early 2022, Clackamas staff has taught over 330 hours of financial literacy, including several sessions designed specifically for audiences with special needs. These hours were spent teaching in local K-12 schools, hosting member workshops, and presenting at local organizations.
- Financial Planning. Clackamas Investment Services works with families planning for the financial future of loved ones with special needs.