A Maine Savings Credit Union exclusive partnership with the University of Maine Athletics Department and Black Bear Sports Properties resulted in a $13,744 donation to the Black Bear Fund.

The Black Bear Fund provides scholarships to University of Maine student athletes.

Last year, in conjunction with its College Ave branch opening, Maine Savings announced a five-year partnership with Black Bear Sports Properties to provide members with a specially-branded University of Maine Black Bear Debit Card.

For every purchase made with the Black Bear debit card, Maine Savings agreed to contribute $0.05 to the Black Bear Fund, with a commitment to donating a minimum of $10,000 each year.

“The support our members have shown for Black Bear student athletes has been amazing,” said John Reed, president/CEO of the $296 million credit union based in Hampden, Maine. “We're proud to support the Black Bears and this program shows that our members are, too.”

According to University of Maine Director of Athletics Karlton Creech, the university has been “blown away” by the level of support from Maine Savings and its members in this inaugural year.

“Like most universities, we need to rely on partnerships like this to make our athletics program as good as it can be. Maine Savings is a terrific partner and we're delighted to have the Black Bear Debit Card hard at work for us,” Creech said.

Instant Insights /

University of Maine Black Bear Fund Scores

Related Stories

Recommended For You