A group of credit unions and co-ops in Bellingham, a northwestWashington State city of 85,000, is celebrating the InternationalYear of Cooperatives by sponsoring a full day of activities.

The “Day of Action,” as it is called, is slated for nextSaturday at a Bellingham aquatic park, North Cascades National Parkand the Bellingham Food Bank Farm, the group said.

The efforts designed to “demonstrate the power of co-operation”is aimed at building co-op/CU awareness in Whatcom County and toshowcase the work of volunteers in community betterment, the groupsaid in a statement.

“To bring together 10 area cooperatives and organize a volunteera day of action, demonstrates the collaborative strength in ourcommunity,” said Katie Zowada, president/CEO of the $53 millionGaPac Community FCU, one of the “Day of Action” organizers.

Volunteers and employees from area credit unions will bespending the day pulling weeds, spreading fertilizer and performingother chores, packing up canned foods and other chores, capped offwith an evening BBQ in one of the city parks.

“We started working on this back in February and we posted 500yard signs around the county announcing our plans,” said LindaSant, marketing director at GaPac.

Radio spots were also placed announcing “Day of Action” andencouraging community participation.

At least 60 volunteers from three area credit unions areexpected Saturday, Sant said.