Melchionda Honored at Celtics Game

WOBURN, Mass. – Unless you’re an NBA player, not many people get to stand at center court of the Fleet Center, home of the Boston Celtics. But EasCorp President/CEO Jane Melchionda recently had that unique opportunity. Melchionda was honored with the Celtics’ Heroes Among Us award for 2005. She was given the award at a game between the Celtics and the Chicago Bulls on Jan. 19. The award honors those who make an overwhelming impact on the lives of others, according to the Celtics. The Celtics started the award program in 1997, and since it has been duplicated by other NBA teams. Melchionda was chosen for her efforts in helping children. Melchionda was behind the formation of Credit Unions of Massachusetts Kids at Heart program. The group’s primary goal is to raise money for the Children’s Hospital Boston, a renowned pediatric hospital. Credit Unions of Massachusetts Kids at Heart was created eight years ago by EasCorp and a few other credit union sponsors, and today it boasts 55 credit union participants. The hospital plans to open a new patient/family lounge and nutrition center next fall using funds provided by Credit Unions of Massachusetts Kids at Heart program. The program has raised more than $1.6 million for the hospital to date.