“Hug” is the new mascot for the $314 million First Source FCU in New Hartford, N.Y., so supporting the Stevens-Swan Humane Society of Oneida County was a natural fit. The 32,000-member credit union played a major role in the organization's 19^th annual Wiggle Waggle Walk-a-Thon at New Hartford Town Park, helping the dogs put on the dog by dressing up like “Hug”. The CU volunteers also raised $1,200 of the $42,000 overall the event raised for the local humane society. Food and other supplies also were collected through the month of September at the credit union's branches in New Hartford, Utica and Herkimer. “We like to get involved in our community as much as possible and especially when the cause is near and dear to our employees. We feel strongly about helping our local Humane Society since they rely on community support for 100% of their funding and because of the loving care they give to more than 3,000 lost, abused and unwanted animals each year,” said Pamela Way, community relations specialist for First Source.

The pooches had to look their best for the big day, so First Source staff making their duds here are, from left, special projects specialist Sandy Sherman, call center representative Joyce Gouse, teller Stacey Dean and call center manager Lynn Riley.

Call center representative Joyce Gouse and her poodle were prepped to proudly parade after the “Hug” costume work was done.

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

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