Awards

Texas Credit Union Foundation, Farmers Branch, Texas, awarded its Focus Awards in four categories: individual, project NEFE network, credit union and credit union chapter to honor commitment to financial education. Phillip Crocker, director of business development at Resource One Credit Union was given the individual focus award. A+ Federal Credit union was given the credit union focus award. The Forth Worth Chapter of Credit Unions was given the credit union chapter focus award. Larry Heitzman from Generations Federal Credit Union and Robin Garrison of Cooperative Extension Service were given special achievement awards in the project NEFE network focus award category.

Afena Federal Credit Union, Marion, Ind., was awarded the diamond award for community service/PR programs from CUNA from the second consecutive year. Afena was given the award in the category of credit unions with assets of less than $100 million. President Sheila Burkhart challenged each member of the management, staff and board of directs to get involved in as many community groups and charitable organizations as possible. Afena also enlisted the services of marketing communications agency HG Ad Group in Chicago to support its overall rebranding and community relations program.

Capital Communications Federal Credit Union, Albany, N.Y., honored three teenage members during its annual meeting recently with the making a difference award. Each member received a monetary award and Capital Communications made a $100 donation in their name to the charity of their choice. Jessica Abel received the first place award and $1,000 for her volunteer work at Albany Medical Denter Hopsital, Double H Ranch, the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, the Regional Food Bank, Habitat Humanity and Military Moms in Action. Margaret O’Mara received the second place award and $500 for her volunteer work at Wildwood Programs at the Capital District Flower and Garden Show, Wildwood Recreation Teen Center program, the Culinary Cornucopia to benefit Living Resources, the Regional Food Bank of Northeast New York and the Crossgates Mall Holiday Hunger appeal. Katie Dartt received the third place award and $300 for her volunteer work as an arts and crafts teacher at a summer camp for inner city children, Empty Stocking Project, Youth 2 Youth, and teaching swimming lessons for younger children.