TRENTON, N.J.– Visions FCU is reporting it has made a third installment toward Project Education, a $1-million pledge to the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA).
The $100,000 donation will support the NJEA’s Office of Human and Civil Rights, Equity and Governance and fund the Visions Grant for Social Justice through the Hipp Foundation, according to the Endwell, N.Y.-based Visions FCU.
Project Education is a 10-year commitment that will total $1 million by 2030. Previous installments helped to establish and support the Office of Human and Civil Rights, Equity and Governance, which oversees statewide initiatives that impact educators, public schools, and the community.
“If we want to shape our communities, it starts with our children and their education,” said Visions President/CEO Ty Muse. “By providing public schools with a strong network of educators and awareness of social justice, we’re having a profound impact the students’ lives.”
In partnership with the Hipp Foundation, Project Education has funded two recipients of the Visions Grant for Social Justice. The grants, up to $10,000 each, are intended for educators and staff of public schools who propose innovative ideas to support social justice.
Last year’s recipient was Lisa Hirkaler, an educator in Vernon Township, N.J., whose Social Justice Book Club for middle school students was funded. Her book club uses multicultural literature to highlight connections between art, art history, and current topics of social justice.
Visions Community Development Manager Hanna Mitchell oversees Visions Cares, the credit union’s charitable giving program.
“Listening to the true-life stories of Lisa and other educators brought me to tears,” said Mitchell. “Many have overcome unbelievable obstacles as educators and continue to give back to children and the community. These are true heroes we’re honored to serve and support.”
Partnering with the NJEA, Visions reported it also provides free financial wellness opportunities to high school students throughout New Jersey. Their free in-person and virtual classes encourage financial literacy and help students to approach the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or other sources of financial aid for higher education.
“From the time students enter the school system and through their college applications, NJEA supports their journey,” added Muse. “We’re here to make it even stronger.”