North Island Credit Union First to Donate to 49er Quarterback Alex Smith's Foundation

SAN DIEGO - North Island Credit Union is helping area foster teens by donating $10,000 to the Alex Smith Foundation. The donation marks the first public contribution to former San Francisco 49er Quarterback Alex Smith's organization. The credit union's relationship with Smith began last year during an Extravaganza Golf Tournament and Gala benefiting the South Bay Family YMCA. North Island CU was the presenting sponsor and Smith was the event host. Smith recently visited the credit union's corporate headquarters to present his insights on teamwork to staffers. While employees received autographs from the former NFL rookie, Smith received a check for $10,000 - the first public contribution to his newly formed Alex Smith Foundation. "North Island Credit Union and Alex both feel a strong affinity with organizations that are dedicated to improving the quality of human life and to help all people realize their fullest potential," said Mike Maslak, president/CEO of North Island CU. "As such, we were honored to help the South Bay Family YMCA and felt similarly compelled to support the Alex Smith Foundation in its efforts to help teenagers transitioning from the foster care system to independent living." The primary mission of the Alex Smith Foundation is to provide foster teens with the tools and resources needed to successfully transition into adulthood. The foundation's goal is to fund programs to help increase graduation rates among foster care children and help them after they turn 18, the age at which government programs stop rendering assistance. Smith was the first player selected overall in the NFL draft by San Francisco 49ers in 2005. He recently completed his first season with the 49ers.