Monday proved to be a difficult, heartbreaking day forassociates at Arizona State Credit Union, as they learned thatseven of the 19 firefighters who died Sunday protecting their community from wildfires, were members.

“These brave men were great examples of giving their all to savetheir community. The cooperative nature of credit unions is foundedin this ideal, people helping people. In this case seven of ourmembers lived that motto and as a result gave their lives. Wecannot do enough to honor their memories and their sacrifice,” saidDavid Doss, CEO of the over $1.4 billion Phoenix-based creditunion, which operates five branches in and around the Prescott,Ariz., area.

The 19 men belonged to the elite 20-member Granite Mountain Hotshots from the small town of Prescott andtheir deaths were the largest loss of life in American wildfirefighting in 80 years.

Doss and Paul Stull, senior vice president of strategy and brandspent Monday in Prescott meeting with staff and localofficials.

“We are taking steps to contact the families of our members andoffer financial assistance,” said Stull. “Members of our staff arevery shaken by this loss and we are doing our best to offerassistance.”

The 128,000-member credit union is also accepting donations tobenefit the firefighters' families and others who have lost theirhomes in this tragedy. Arizona State CU will match donations up to$20,000.

In addition, the credit union is offering 90 days of skippayments, low rate emergency loans, the ability to restructureloans and assistance with insurance and other financial mattersneeded.

Stull and Doss also reached out to members in the communities ofYarnell and Peeples, Ariz.

“Nearly half of the homes in Yarnell were destroyed. We want toreach out to our members proactively rather than wait for them tocontact us,” said Stull.

Those also wanting to help can send donations to CEO Dave Doss,2355 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix AZ 85027.

“We have already heard from the Mountain West Credit UnionAssociation, which is sending a donation,” said Stull. “We aregrateful for any support that will directly help thesefamilies.”