What A Difference A Day Makes for Tsunami Victims

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Early credit union fundraising efforts have led to some big results to benefit tsunami victims. In Eugene, Oregon Community Credit Union’s 14-hour joint telethon with Cumulus Broadcasting and the American Red Cross has helped raise over $60,000 for Tsunami relief efforts. All of the money raised will be earmarked to help those affected by the Tsunami and will be given to the American Red Cross International Response Fund. It took more than 200 staff hours as employees manned the all-day phone bank at corporate headquarters with an average service level rating of 98.84%. In addition to accepting donations, the telethon included an all-day auction of items ranging from restaurant gift certificates and helicopter rides to dining room sets and chiropractic services that were donated by a variety of local businesses and organizations. “We have been honored to have been a part of raising money for such a worthy cause. We join Cumulus in thanking all the companies that donated auction items, people who volunteered, and the individuals who have been so generous in helping to fill this need.” said OCCU President/CEO Gordon Hoerauf. Pasedena, California-based Wescom Credit Union also found success with its New Year’s Day collection efforts during the 91st Annual Rose Bowl Parade. The effort was in collaboration with the San Gabriel Chapter of the American Red Cross, and netted $27,109.10 in donations. Wescom’s participation was coordinated through the credit union’s WeCare Foundation.