United Federal Credit Union employees pay it forward to help local communities

United Federal Credit Union (UFCU) was pleased to donate more than $800 to local families and organizations across North Carolina during the 2017 Pay It Forward initiative. As part of the Pay It Forward program, UFCU provides $15 to every employee to give to a needy individual, family, or organization of their choice. Many times, departments and branches combine funds to create a more substantial donation.

The program began in 2008 with a request from employees, that they use the money otherwise spent on internal holiday celebrations to help people in the community. In the first year, UFCU raised $5,000. In 2016, UFCU raised more than $11,000. 

At every conclusion of Pay It Forward, UFCU gathers its entire staff to hear more about how each department utilized the charitable funds. In 2017, that meeting occurred on Dec. 20, 2017.

North Carolina and Arkansas Market Vice President Lee Beeson says it’s something employees look forward to every year. “We talk about Pay It Forward for weeks in advance. Giving and doing what we can within the community is a big part of our culture. You can see in the thoughtfulness of our donations how personal each contribution is to our team.” 

This year, employees in Asheville, Fletcher, Hendersonville, and Statesville, North Carolina raised money to benefit two local families struggling with challenges and other employees sponsored three children during The Storehouse’s “Blessings in Boxes” initiative. 

UFCU President/CEO Terry O’Rourke explains that the Pay It Forward Program is highly anticipated and regarded by employees and the Members they serve.

“The Pay It Forward Program is part of our commitment to serve each community in which we reside. Every year, we pause and celebrate our ability to affect change and aid where it’s needed most and every year I’m touched at the level of caring and generosity expressed in these meetings. It’s difficult to get through the presentations without getting emotional and feeling proud to be a part of this team of caring individuals.”

In 2017 through the Pay It Forward initiative, UFCU collectively donated more than $13,000 to 46 different individuals and community organizations across the six states where branches are located.