Last summer's volunteer "Our House Garden" project has garnered United Credit Union a first-place award.
The Dora Maxwell Award, given to credit unions with $100-200 million in assets, was awarded recently at a governmental affairs conference in Washington, D.C., organized by Credit Union National Association.
United Credit Union employees, including those from the Fulton branch, partnered with Our House - the homeless shelter in Fulton - along with other businesses and organizations to plant a raised garden last summer. Produce not used to feed Our House clients was donated to SERVE, Inc., which operates food programs including a pantry in Fulton.
The garden bed frames were donated by the Callaway County YMCA, while volunteer firefighters from Callaway County moved the frames and provided equipment. Organic compost was donated by Bluebird Composting, and more than 100 plants were donated by Bonnie Plant Farm in California. The group, "Because Every Mother Matters," also provided volunteers in addition to UCU members and staff.
In 2014, Our House and affiliated groups hosted 3,078 people in need, and many benefited from the garden project.
The Dora Maxwell award recognizes model credit union efforts to improve and strengthen their communities through inclusive outreach programs. Each United Credit Union branch is involved with service projects and events in their communities. Their mission is to serve the under served through financial services and active volunteering.
