The Credit Union aims to continue efforts for investment in the local community in 2022
Philadelphia Federal Credit Union (PFCU), a member-owned institution that invests profits back into the Greater Philadelphia community, strengthened its commitment to several local nonprofits and organizations in 2021 by donating a total of $40,000 to their efforts to support Philadelphia residents, including initiatives related to workforce development, adult education, inclusion, supporting people without housing, and more.
"As we enter a new year, it's important to take a moment to reflect on PFCU's ongoing commitment to our community," said Karen Eavis, Communications Specialist at PFCU. "Like the members we serve, we are invested in Philadelphia. And while times have continued to be challenging, the generosity of our employees and members has remained constant. Some of the contributions to these deserving organizations and programs wouldn't have been possible without them. We look forward to 2022 and the opportunity to continue these efforts, and hopefully expand upon them."
PFCU supported the several local nonprofits and organizations in the following ways:
- Beyond Literacy– On June 14, 2021, PFCU gave $4,275, covering the cost of 15 user licenses, to the Pre-Apprentice Program with Beyond Literacy, an organization that offers transformational services and classes to those seeking a way to a better life, and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), one of the largest American unions with active members and retirees who work in a wide variety of fields. This pre-apprentice program, focused on workforce development, provides many with advanced placement into the paid IBEW Electrical Apprenticeship program. Its focus is on reentry and helping people who have been negatively impacted by the criminal justice system.
In addition, on April 28, 2021, Erin Ellis, Accredited Financial Counselor at PFCU, attended a live virtual Spelling Bee fundraiser hosted by Beyond Literacy. PFCU sponsored the fundraiser by donating $1,000. The money raised at the fundraiser will support the organization in their missions to provide adults and families with free, high-quality education.
- Depaul USA– On September 23, 2021, PFCU sponsored the Depaul USA Fundraising Gala by donating $2,500. As a member of the committee, Ellis helped plan this year's festivities. Proceeds from the gala provided housing, case management, counseling, financial education, and job training to help individuals in Philadelphia exit homelessness. The event also supported the Dax Program at St. Joseph's House, which opened last year to support unhoused and housing-insecure college students.
- Episcopal Community Services – On December 17, 2021, PFCU employees participated in the annual Giving Tree Campaign, which supports a local nonprofit partner by buying presents for participants in their programs. The Giving Tree partner selected was the Episcopal Community Services (ECS) Out of School Time (OST) program, an afterschool enrichment program that offers project-based learning and 21st century skills for kids in elementary and middle grades. PFCU employees donated money to help OST reach its goal of providing gift cards for 600 children. The amount raised by employee donations was then matched by PFCU, and in total $6,000 was donated.
- Smith Memorial Playground– On May 15, 2021, PFCU sponsored Ellis's team at the Second Annual Slide-A-Thon at the Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse. Attendees were able to enjoy private and exclusive access to the historic Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide—more than 100 years old and 60 feet long—while competing for the highest number of slides during a given timeslot to support Smith. PFCU contributed $500, and those who participated with Ellis's team raised an additional $850.
- Salvation Army– On July 28, 2021, PFCU sponsored the annual Celebrate Hope Award Ceremony by donating $1,000. The Celebrate Hope Award Ceremony program honors community members who are dedicated to service, highlights Salvation Army programs and salutes the generous individuals and partners who make their efforts possible.
- Horizon House– For the sixth year, PFCU sponsored the Horizon House Annual Golf Outing by donating $1,800 and an additional donation of $1,000 later in the year. Horizon House is a non-profit organization located in Philadelphia and Delaware. Since 1952, the Horizon House has helped adults with psychiatric or developmental disabilities, drug and alcohol addictions, and/or homelessness by providing support, services, and community resource coordination.
- Michael's Giving H.A.N.D.– On October 21, 2021, PFCU sponsored the 5th Annual Michael's Giving H.A.N.D. Golf Outing by donating $2,050, as well as supported the Michael P. Donatucci Foundation by donating $1,000. Michael's Giving Hand is a charitable organization focused on helping teens, parents, counselors, and teachers recognize and understand anxiety disorders and depression to help erase the stigma associated with mental health.
In addition to the organizations outlined above, PFCU made dozens of donations totaling $40,000 to support several local nonprofits and organizations in the community. To learn more about PFCU's mission, services, and upcoming events, visit pfcu.com.
About Philadelphia Federal Credit Union
Founded in 1951, PFCU is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving Philadelphia and Columbia County, Pa. PFCU is among the top five credit unions in the Greater Philadelphia area, with 11 branch locations, more than $1 billion in assets, over 120,000 members, and more than 400 Partner Groups. PFCU returns its profits to members in the form of higher dividend rates, lower loan rates, better services, and investment in the community. For more information, visit www.pfcu.com and connect with PFCU on Facebook and Twitter.