“Hug” is the new mascot for the $314 million FirstSource FCU in New Hartford, N.Y., so supporting the Stevens-SwanHumane Society of Oneida County was a natural fit. The32,000-member credit union played a major role in theorganization's 19^th annual Wiggle Waggle Walk-a-Thon atNew Hartford Town Park, helping the dogs put on the dog by dressingup like “Hug”. The CU volunteers also raised $1,200 ofthe $42,000 overall the event raised for the local humane society.Food and other supplies also were collected through the month ofSeptember at the credit union's branches in New Hartford, Utica andHerkimer. “We like to get involved in our community as much aspossible and especially when the cause is near and dear to ouremployees. We feel strongly about helping our local Humane Societysince they rely on community support for 100% of their funding andbecause of the loving care they give to more than 3,000 lost,abused and unwanted animals each year,” said Pamela Way, communityrelations specialist for First Source.

The pooches had to look their best for the big day, so FirstSource staff making their duds here are, from left, specialprojects specialist Sandy Sherman, call center representative JoyceGouse, teller Stacey Dean and call center manager Lynn Riley.

Call center representative Joyce Gouse and her poodle wereprepped to proudly parade after the “Hug” costume work wasdone.

Here's a lineup of some of the participants in the Wiggle WaggleWalk-a-Thon.

And, of course, the presentation of the big check. From left areFirst Source community relations specialist Pamela Way, Jerry Krausof Stevens-Swan Humane Society, call center manager Lynn Riley andsales and service manager Chris Dovi.