NEEDHAM, Mass.– Direct Federal Credit Union has named the 24 winners of its Acts of Kindness Awards Program, which was introduced this Spring.
As part of the credit union's initial response to COVID-19, Direct Federal said it used the program to highlight positivity happening in its community and to reward and recognize selfless, hardworking, and compassionate individuals throughout Norfolk and Middlesex counties. During a time of increased financial hardships, the credit union said it wanted to spread kindness by setting aside $10,000 for deserving individuals.
Direct Federal solicited nominations through social media for people who were deserving of a random act of kindness.
The credit union selected 23 winners and said it was so moved by one of the nominators, it rewarded her as well. In total, Direct Federal distributed $11,000. The nominators of each winner assisted in the coordination of surprise presentations.
Winners of the Acts of Kindness Awards are as follows:
- Caroline and Elle Conquergood, Needham
- Nathan Warner Dorval, Newton
- Susan Altman, Boston
- Jessica Nizzari, Wellesley
- Ronal Slager III, Cambridge
- Laquisha Gebhard, Lowell
- Pat Flaherty, Norwood
- Patricia Doyle, Needham
- Jean Higgens, Needham
- Julie Gage, Woburn
- Kerri Moore O'Leary, Westwood
- Tilly Appiah, Boston
- Heidi Scott Wolfe, Needham
- Jenn Shambaugh, Salem
- Alicia Santamaria and Gemma Joyce, Needham
- Maxwell Surprenant, Needham
- Pamela Wohl, Wellesley
- Mikey Fanning, Needham
- Jennifer Briggs, Braintree
- Dan Mcmann, Needham
- Cara Soulia and Kristen Collins, Needham
"We are thrilled to recognize these 24 outstanding, selfless members of our community. Along with many others during this pandemic, these people embody the notion that a life spent serving others is a life well spent," said Joe Walsh, president and CEO of Direct Federal Credit Union.