Editor’s note: Each Wednesday, West Hawaii Today is publishing a story about individuals, groups or organizations that have helped make life better for others in our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union is proving there is nothing stronger than the power of community after raising $48,924 in donations during its annual Market Day events in October.
The funds will go to two nonprofit organizations making a significant impact in the community – HOPE Services Hawaii, Inc. and the Children’s Miracle Network.
“Our Hawaii Island community is driven by the true spirit of that word — community. No matter how tough times may be, or the challenges we face, we come together to help one another in big and small ways,” said HCFCU President and CEO Tricia Buskirk. “Coming together in times of need is fundamental to who we are and who we strive to be.”
HOPE Services Hawaii, Inc. — an outreach organization assisting the homeless and those displaced by personal or natural disasters — will receive $26,000.
While the COVID pandemic shifted the way in-person donations were collected, it did not diminish the generosity of participants. Local businesses donated 10% of a dedicated day of sales to HOPE Services Hawaii while others offered pre-sales on special items. Credit union employees sold commemorative ribbons to raise additional money.
Since 2018, Market Days events have raised more than $82,000 for the HOPE Services Hawaii Inc. This is the third and final year of the Triennial Social Responsibility Partnership between Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union and the nonprofit.
The dedication of the credit union’s immediate and extended ohana also resulted in a $22,924 donation to Children’s Miracle Network and Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children. Employees pledged nearly $20,000 during the credit union’s annual giving drive and raised another $1,000 on its “Miracle Jeans Day.” An additional $2,200 was matched by CO-OP Financial Services’ CO-OP Miracle Match program.
Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, federally insured financial institution owned by its 42,000 members. HCFCU has branches in Hilo, Honokaa, Kailua-Kona, Kaloko, Kealakekua, and Kohala. Additionally, HCFCU has Student Credit Unions in Kealakehe, Kohala and Konawaena High Schools.
Membership in Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union is open to all Hawaii Island residents. For more information, visit www.hicommfcu.com.
Know a Hometown Hero who should be highlighted next Wednesday? It can be anybody, from a youngster doing good for the community, to a professional helping with the COVID-19 pandemic, or even a kupuna! Please send your nominations to cjensen@westhawaiitoday.com with the subject: Hometown Heroes Nomination. Please include the hero’s name, contact information and what makes them a hero.
