2013
Dora Maxwell Social
Responsibility Community Service Award
and the
Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action
Member Service Award
Program Packet
Commonly Asked Questions
About the National Recognition Awards
Q:
Who was Dora Maxwell?
A:
Dora Maxwell was an early credit union pioneer. One of the original signers of CUNA's
constitution at Estes Park, Colorado, she worked as an organizer for the movement's
trade association (then called the Credit Union National Extension Bureau) and held
numerous volunteer positions at the local and national level. In addition to organizing
hundreds of credit unions, she developed volunteer organizer clubs and worked with
organizations on behalf of the poor.
Q:
Who was Louise Herring and why is the award named for her?
A:
Louise Herring was an active supporter, organizer and champion of credit unions. She
was the Ohio delegate to the 1934 national credit union conference in Estes Park,
Colorado, where she signed the original constitution for a national credit union
association. Louise Herring believed that credit unions should work in a practical
manner to better people's lives. She saw the credit union as more than just a financial
institution. In her own words, "The purpose of the credit union is to reform the financial
system, so that everyone can have his place in the sun."
Q:
What time period do the award entries cover?
A:
Leagues determine any qualifying time frames. In general, entries should cover
the previous year's activities, but there are no exact deadlines prescribed. A
good rule of thumb is that entries submitted by the August 2, 2013, deadline
should cover activities taking place between May 2012 and May 2013.
Q:
What's the difference between the Louise Herring Award and the Dora Maxwell
Award?
A:
The Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award is given to a
credit union or chapter/multiple credit union group for its social responsibility
projects within the community. The award is given for external activities.
The Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action Member Service Award is given to a
credit union for its practical application of credit union philosophy within the
actual operation of the credit union. It is awarded for internal programs and
services that benefit membership.
Q:
Can a credit union enter both competitions?
A:
Yes. Just be sure to clearly define which program the credit union is entering
and how the activities submitted meet the program guidelines.
Q:
Can a credit union enter the same entry in both competitions?
A:
No. Because each program has different objectives and requirements, entries
should be tailored to match the defined goals of the particular competition.
Q:
How do the Dora and Louise programs differ from the Desjardins program?
A:
Training teachers or lobbying on behalf of state personal finance curriculum
requirements are considered community service activities and would be eligible
for the Dora Maxwell award. Operating an in-school branch is considered a
member service activity and would be eligible for the Louise Herring award. All
-2-
activities to teach personal finance to people of any age are consider financial
education and would be eligible for the Desjardins award. (If you’re confused, call
800-356-9655, ext. 4234, and give Vikki Kinsler a piece of your mind.)
Q:
Can a credit union submit the same entry to more than one league for state-level
judging?
A:
No. A credit union’s entry may only be submitted to one league, even if the credit
union pays dues in more than one state.
Q:
Can a credit union submit more than one entry in either competition?
A.
A credit union should submit only one entry per competition. Each entry can list
the number of projects conducted in the timeframe established by the league, but
the credit union must select one project that best exemplifies the criteria for
each award. The questions on the entry form must be completed detailing the
one project that was selected.
Q:
Why must a credit union supply financial information with its entry in the Louise Herring
Philosophy-in-Action Member Service Award?
A:
A credit union must be in solid financial condition in order to provide the highest level of
service to its members. Sound financial management ensures a credit union's ability to
continue to provide that service, as well. Therefore, the entry must include current and
previous year’s (2 years total) balance sheets and income statements and/or NCUA’s
Financial Performance Report (FPR). Entries received without the financial information
will be disqualified.
-3-
Secrets of a Winning
Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award or
Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action Member Service Award Program
Entry
And now, a word from the Judges . . .
Did you ever wonder what the members of the CUNA’s Awards Committee are looking
for when they select the winners in the national recognition programs? Here's the
scoop:

Review the program entry form carefully and answer all of the questions relative to
the one unique project you selected in the original format provided. The scoring is
based on these elements, so the more information you provide in direct response
to the questions, the higher your score. Please answer all the questions on the form
and in order.

Read the rules, and make sure you're entering the appropriate competition.
Remember: Dora Maxwell entries should focus on community involvement, charity
work, or social responsibility programs external to the credit union. Louise Herring
entries should be based on your credit union's internal programs that benefit its
members, and provide examples of how you put philosophy into action for your
members.(Note: Teaching personal finance is the sole focus of the Desjardins adult
and youth financial education awards.)

Make your entry easy to read and easy to follow. Include the name of your credit
union on the front cover of the binder. Use a table of contents. Avoid handwritten
entries, and use standard fonts: no italic style or small print. Print items you want
read on white paper and refrain from printing on hard-to-read colors, such as
magenta, purple, or neon orange. Misspellings leave a bad impression, too.

Clearly identify who is involved in your project. Who did the work? Who were the
beneficiaries? How many people were reached? While giving donations is
admirable, the judges also look for strong volunteer involvement from staff within the
credit union at all employment levels.

Bigger isn't always better. Keep your entry to a manageable size. Keep it fresh:
include current activities only, not programs or events from several years ago. Put
all materials in an album, 3-ring binder or spiral-bound book.

Include samples or descriptions of the promotional materials related to the entry.
Share pictures from the event or the preparation. Include flyers or newsletters that
show how you communicated or got the word out about your project or initiative.
Please avoid electronic media.
Of course, only a limited number of entries can win at the state and national levels. By
heeding this advice, you can improve your chances of receiving recognition for your
good works.
-4-
CUNA Award Differentiation Chart
Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility
Community Service Award
Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action
Member Service Award
Recognizes model credit union efforts to
strengthen local institutions and
materially improve the lives of
nonmembers through community
outreach programs (other than personal
finance education). Examples:
Recognizes model credit union efforts to
materially improve members’ lives
through programs (other than personal
finance education). Examples:
 Special loan modification program
 Wealth-building or debt-reduction
incentive program
 Outreach to underserved population
 Student-run in-school or campus
branch
 Credit union difference campaign
 Predatory lending alternative
 Support for member ESL instruction
 Charity fund raising
 Support for public events
 Donation to social service programs
 VITA or EITC assistance
 Lobbying or advocacy on behalf of K-12
financial education
 Support for teacher training
-5-
Entry Fees
The fee for each entry submitted for judging is $50 made payable to CUNA, Inc. and should be
included with your entry sent to the New Hampshire Credit Union League by August 2, 2013.
The entry fee will be returned to credit unions that do not advance to the national competition.
-6-
The Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Program
Purpose
To promote social responsibility among credit unions by formally recognizing their community
service achievements.
Procedure
Prior to judging, ensure you verify the credit union’s asset size. Each league will select winners
from each of the following categories:









Less than $5 million in assets
$5 - $20 million in assets
$20 - $50 million in assets
$50 - $100 million in assets
$100 - $200 million in assets
$200 - $500 million in assets
$500 million - $1 billion
$1 billion+
Credit union chapter/multiple credit union group
Only the first place winner in each category will advance to the national competition. If
more than one has been chosen, please send just one for judging at the national level. If
more than one entry per asset size category is submitted for national judging, the entries
will be sent back to the league to determine one winner.
Plaques for state-level winners are available at cost to leagues. Credit Union National
Association (CUNA) will provide the plaques for the national winning award entries.
Enclosed is an entry form to reproduce and distribute to credit unions along with information
about the program. The program entry form included in the packet must be completed and
submitted with the entry. (Entries received at the national level without completed entry form
will be returned.) We also strongly recommend that the credit union completes and follows the
checklist that is provided.
Leagues determine any qualifying time frames.
Chapter/multiple credit unions groups’ entries should describe a project or activity that was
conducted as a chapter/multiple credit union group, not credit unions' individual contributions or
projects.
Submit only one entry form, even if there were multiple projects. If a credit union conducted
multiple projects, they must pick their most successful and/or unique project and complete the
entry form based on that one project. Providing promotional materials for that one project is
essential but additional materials for other projects can be included in the entry.
Eligible Activities
Credit unions could receive an award for involvement in almost any kind of activity that helps
other people or strengthens the structure of a community. This might include raising funds for
charity, educational activities, or community involvement projects, such as a volunteer fair,
building low-income housing, or loaning employees a few hours a week to work in hospitals,
-7-
retirement homes, schools, etc. In the resource section of this packet, a summary of 2012
national winners, which provides additional ideas, is included.
The Selection Process
Credit unions will submit their project binder, album or spiral bound book, along with a
completed, typed entry form (required). Support materials for the project should be included in
the binder, album or book. Please no electronic media. We also strongly recommend that the
credit union completes and follows the checklist that is provided.
Each league will appoint a selection committee. Some leagues have judged each other's state
entries. Leagues should judge the entries using the same guidelines. In addition to using the
enclosed standardized score sheet, the judges should also take into consideration the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
What were the goals of the project and how did they show social concern for the
community?
How did the project help support the needs of the community?
Were the project's target audience(s) defined, including who was involved and who
benefited?
What strategies were used to reach the project's goal?
How were the project's promotional materials targeted to the intended audience(s) and
how did they communicate the project's goals?
How is this project unique? How does it demonstrate extraordinary effort and devotion
of time and organization by the credit union?
Were the measurable or defined results of the project achieved?
Did the project demonstrate credit union values of mutual self-help, cooperation,
economic empowerment and volunteerism?
Submitting Winning Entries
Leagues then select winners in each category and prepare to forward their first-place
selections. First, the League Submission Sheet is completed and sent along with the winning
entries to CUNA at the address indicated on the sheet. Next an Entry Fee Payment Form is
completed and sent along with a share draft to CUNA at the address indicated on the form.
(Reminder: Only one first-place winner per asset category can advance to the national
competition. If multiple first-place awards are given at the state level, a tiebreaker must be
conducted. If more than one entry per asset size category is submitted for national judging, the
entries will be sent back to the league to determine one winner.)
In the national competition, CUNA’s appointed Awards Committee judges the entries.
-8-
2013 Entry Form for the Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility
Community Service Award
The Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award recognizes a credit union or
chapter/multiple credit union group for its social responsibility work and charitable projects that
support its community. This award is not for projects that are directed at and/or benefit a credit
union’s membership but rather focus on work in the community.




Please include significant promotional materials, descriptions and photos of
project/event with your entry form.
Submit materials in a three-ring binder, album, or spiral-bound book.
Follow the format of the entry form. Type your responses on the form provided.
Please no electronic media.
Contact Person
Title __________________________ E-mail address__________________________
Credit Union Name
Street Address
P.O. Box
City
State
Zip
Phone Number _____________________ Fax Number ________________________
Asset size: ___ Less than $5 million
___ $50 - $100 million
___ $5 - $20 million
___ $20 - $50 million
___ $100 - $200 million
___ $200 - $500
million
___ $500 million - $1 billion
____ $1 billion+
___ Chapter/Multiple Credit Union Group
Credit union’s field of membership: ________________________________________
Number of credit union branches: _________
Number of credit union members: __________
Number of credit union employees: __________
Number of credit union employees responsible for implementing the project:
__________
Answer the following questions (use additional paper if necessary):
a. If your credit union was involved in multiple projects, please list them here. If not,
proceed to the next question.
b. Describe the one project that was the most successful and/or the most unique -- the
one that best exemplifies the Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service
Award. (The ensuing questions must be answered based on this one project.)
-9-
1. What were the goals of your project and how did they show social concern for the
community? (Include measurable goals such as dollars budgeted, number of
people impacted, etc.)
2. How did the project support the needs of the community?
3. Define the project's target audience(s), including who got involved and who
benefited from the project.
4. What strategies were used to reach the project's goal?
5. How were the project's promotional materials targeted to the intended audience(s)
and how did they communicate the project's goals?
6. How is this project unique? How does it demonstrate extraordinary effort and
devotion of time and organization by the credit union?
7. Please describe the measurable or defined results the project achieved.
8. How does the project demonstrate credit union values of mutual self-help,
cooperation, economic empowerment and volunteerism?
Include this form with your entry and return to the
New Hampshire Credit Union League by August 2, 2013.
- 10 -
Checklist for Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility
Community Service Award Entries
The following checklist will ensure that Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community
Service Award entries are complete. Please include the completed checklist with your
entry form.
Does the entry include one completed, typed entry form listing the credit
union's name, address, FOM, number of members, number of employees,
number of employees responsible for implementing the project, a contact
person, and a description of one project (Question b)?
Does the entry form state that it is intended for the Dora Maxwell Award
program? Does the project fit within the description listed on the top of the
entry form?
Does the entry form reflect your credit union’s current asset size?
Are all materials either in a three-ring binder, album or a spiral-bound book?
Does the entry describe the measurable goals of the program, including
budgets, numbers of people involved, etc.?
Does the entry list the groups the program tried to reach and describe outreach
strategies?
Does the entry show how activities were promoted and include sample articles,
ads, flyers, brochures, descriptions and photos?
Does the entry include a timetable, budget, and results in the project
description? (Be sure and include dollars and numbers.)
Is the typed entry form concise and readable? (Remember, more isn't always
better!)
Include this form with your entry and return to the
New Hampshire Credit Union League by August 2, 2013.
- 11 -
The Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action Member Service Award
Purpose
To promote credit union philosophy by formally recognizing credit unions that demonstrate in an
extraordinary way the practical application of that philosophy for their members.
Procedure
Prior to judging, ensure you verify the credit union’s asset size. Each league will select winners
from each of the following categories:





Less than $50 million
$50 - $250 million
$250 million - $1 billion
$1 billion+
Credit union chapter/multiple credit union group
Only the first place winner in each category will advance to the national competition. If
more than one has been chosen, please send just one in each category for judging at the
national level. If more than one entry per asset size category is submitted for national
judging, the entries will be sent back to the league to determine one winner.
Plaques for the state-level winners are available at cost to leagues. Credit Union National
Association (CUNA) will provide the plaques for the national winning award entries.
Enclosed is an entry form to reproduce and distribute to credit unions along with information
about the program. The program entry form included in the packet must be completed and
submitted with the entry. (Entries received at the national level without completed entry form
will be returned.)
Leagues determine any qualifying time frames.
Eligible Activities
Credit unions could receive an award for programs or policies that demonstrate their
commitment to the practical application of the "People-Helping-People" philosophy. Some
examples of eligible activities are:
Provisions for the small saver or borrower.
Member programs for groups that are often economically challenged.
Internal programs or services that help to differentiate the credit union from other
financial services' providers.
Programs that do an extraordinary job of encouraging thrift and provide a source of
unbiased money management and consumer information, which would be difficult or
impossible to obtain elsewhere.
Evidence of an exceptional degree of service to members.
In the resource section of this packet, a summary of 2012 national winners is included which
provides additional ideas.
- 12 -
The Selection Process
Credit unions will submit to their league a project binder, album, or spiral bound book, along with
a completed, typed entry form (required), and 2 years’(current and previous year- required)
balance sheets and income statements and/or NCUA’s Financial Performance Report (FPR).
Support materials for the project should be included in the binder, album, or book. Please no
electronic media. We also strongly recommend that the credit union completes and follows the
checklist that is provided.
Before entries are judged, analyze the financial statements to determine whether the
credit union is operating in a safe and sound manner. This criterion must be met in order
for a credit union's entry to be considered for the award.
In addition to using the standardized scoring sheet, the following should be taken into
consideration:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Is the credit union operating in a safe and sound manner?
Did the credit union’s project help their members and demonstrate the credit union
philosophy?
How did the implementation steps allow the credit union to achieve its results in putting its
philosophy in action?
Did the credit union’s contribution go beyond what is normally expected of a credit union?
Was project different from day-to-day operations?
How well did the credit union educate its members about the program/project and
demonstrate that it showed true credit union philosophy?
Is it a program/project that will serve members on an ongoing, consistent basis?
Did the credit union show its commitment to credit union principles of democratic structure,
service to members, ongoing financial education, and social goals?
Did the credit union list the measurable and defined results achieved?
Submitting Winning Entries
Leagues then select winners in each category and prepare to forward their first-place
selections. First, a League Submission Sheet is completed and sent along with the winning
entries to CUNA at the address indicated on the sheet. Next an Entry Fee Payment Form is
completed and sent along with a share draft to CUNA at the address indicated on the form.
(Reminder: Only one first-place winner per asset category can advance to the national
competition. If multiple first-place awards are given at the state level, a tiebreaker must be
conducted. If more than one entry per asset size category is submitted for national judging, the
entries will be sent back to the league to determine one winner.)
In the national competition, CUNA’s Awards Committee judges the entries.
- 13 -
2013 Entry Form for the Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action
Member Service Award
The Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action Member Service Award is given to a credit union for its
practical application of credit union philosophy within the credit union. It is awarded for
extraordinary, internal programs that are focused on its membership and create services that
benefit its members. This award is not for charitable work that is directed outside or extended
beyond a credit union’s membership.




Please include promotional materials, descriptions and photos of project/event with
your entry form. Please no electronic media.
Current and previous years’ income statements and balance sheets and/or NCUA
Financial Performance Report must be included with the entry materials.
Submit materials in a three-ring binder, album, or spiral-bound book
Follow the format of the entry form. Type your responses on the form provided.
Contact Person
Title__________________________E-mail address __________________________
Credit Union Name
Street Address
P.O. Box
City
State
Zip
Phone Number ______________________ Fax Number _______________________
Asset size:
____ Less than $50 million
____ $50 - $250 million
____$250 million - $1 billion
____ $1 billion+
____ Credit union chapter/multiple credit union group
Credit union’s field of membership: _______________________________________
Number of credit union branches: __________
Number of credit union members: __________
Number of credit union employees: __________
Number of credit union employees responsible for implementing the project:
__________
Answer the following questions (use additional paper if necessary):
a. If your credit union was involved in multiple projects, please list them here. If not,
proceed to the next question.
b. Select and describe the one project that was the most successful and/or the most
unique -- the one that best exemplifies the Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action Member
Service Award. (The ensuing questions must be answered based on this one project.)
- 14 -
1. How did your project help your members?
2. Describe how your credit union implemented the project (i.e., explain the process).
3. How does the project differ from day-to-day operations? How could it be used
throughout the credit union system?
4. Explain how members were educated about the project/process and how it showed
true credit union philosophy.
5. How is this project going to be used to serve the credit union’s members on a
consistent basis?
6. How does the project show your credit union's commitment to the credit union
principles of democratic structure, service to members, on-going financial education,
and social goals?
7. Please describe the measurable or defined results the project achieved.
Include this form with your entry and return to the
New Hampshire Credit Union League by August 2, 2013.
- 15 -
Checklist for Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action
Member Service Award Entries
The following checklist will ensure that Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action Member
Service Award entries are complete. Please include the completed checklist with your
entry form.
Does the entry include one completed entry form listing the credit union's
name, address, FOM, number of members, number of employees, number of
employees responsible for implementing the project, a contact person, and a
description of one project?
Does the entry form state that it is intended for the Louise Herring Philosophyin-Action Member Service Award program? Does the project fit within the
description listed on the top of the entry form?
Does the entry include current and previous years' (2 years total) balance
sheets and income statements and/or NCUA’s Financial Performance Report
(FPR)?
Does the entry form reflect your credit union’s current asset size?
Does the entry include promotional materials, descriptions and photos of the
project and/or event?
Are all materials either in a three-ring binder, album, or a spiral-bound book?
Does the entry describe the program's goals and the actual results, including
budgets, numbers of people involved, etc.?
Is the entry form concise and readable? (Remember, more isn't always better!)
Does the entry explain how the program demonstrates credit union philosophy
in actual operations?
Does the entry show how the program went beyond what is normally expected
of a credit union?
Does the entry demonstrate how members were educated about credit union
philosophy?
Include this form with your entry and return to the
New Hampshire Credit Union League by August 2, 2013.
- 16 -
Sample Award Program Activities
The award programs differ in the following way: The Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility
Community Service Award recognizes credit unions for external activities within the
community; the Louise Herring Philosophy-in-Action Member Service Award honors
credit unions for exemplary internal programs and services.
The following examples help clarify activities appropriate to each award category.
Sample Dora Maxwell Award activities include, but are not limited to:

Helping solve core community problems, such as housing, transportation, hunger, or
literacy.

Food, clothing, or school supply drives for the needy.

Raising money on behalf of charitable organizations, such as the United Way or Credit
Unions for Kids®.

Helping an organization or agency with events or projects, such as coaching a Special
Olympics team.

Tutoring or reading to students at a local school.

Sponsoring a community volunteer of the year award.
Sample Louise Herring Award activities include, but are not limited to:

Services for members with unique financial needs, such as savings clubs for children or
discounts for senior citizens, or other extraordinary efforts to serve the membership.

Counseling for members facing financial difficulties.

Student-run, in-school or campus branch.

Efforts to educate members on the credit union difference.

Wealth-building or debt reduction incentive programs.
- 17 -
2012 Dora Maxwell/Louise Herring
Award Winner Summaries
DORA MAXWELL SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
Dora Maxwell (Less than $5 Million in Assets)
First Place
Renaissance Community Development Credit Union – Somerset, NJ
Renaissance Community Development Credit Union hosted a Bike-A-Thon to raise awareness
of prostate cancer. Cyclists and volunteers, some who had never volunteered before, came out
to support the ride, which consisted of 10, 30 and 45 mile options. As a result, 700 men,
including 400 who had not previously been tested, received free prostate cancer screenings,
and the credit union donated $1,000 to the Robert Wood Johnson Hospital Foundation,
Dora Maxwell ($5-$20 Million in Assets)
First Place
United Labor Credit Union – Kansas City, MO
In response to a call for help from the president of another credit union for one of its members in
dire need, United Labor Credit Union launched Operation: Maximum Impact, its version of the
television series Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. The home of a widowed mother of six, who
also is the caretaker of elderly parents suffering from Alzheimer's disease, had dangerous
structural problems and was in desperate need of major repairs. The credit union tapped its
membership of highly skilled labor for assistance and over a period of 18 months, garnered
more than $100,000 in labor, equipment, supplies, appliances and materials to address the
home's deficiencies.
Dora Maxwell ($20 to $50 Million in Assets)
First Place
Health Center Credit Union – Evans, GA
Health Center Credit Union leveraged the location of one of its branches to raise funds for the
Georgia Health Sciences Children's Medical Center. Its parking lot is convenient to the Evans
Towne Center Park, a concert venue. The credit union charges concertgoers $5 for parking and
donates the money to the Medical Center. Its employees volunteer to serve as parking
attendants. The credit union also participates in a number of other events and sponsorships in
support of children and families.
- 18 -
Second Place
American Partners Federal Credit Union – Reidsville, NC
American Partners Federal Credit Union's “Love My Credit Union” campaign to recognize one
World War II veteran by fundraising $500 for his Triad Flight of Honor got off to such a great
start the goal was bumped up to $2,500, enough to sponsor five veterans. During the month of
February, the credit union sold hearts on which donors could write the name of someone
special. Sales of hearts were so brisk that as February came to a close, American Partners was
only $86 short of the $2,500 goal. One member stepped in to cover the shortfall and the credit
union was able to honor five veterans by paying their expenses for their Triad Flight of Honor to
Washington, DC, where they toured the World War II and other memorials.
Honorable Mention
CrossRoads Financial Federal Credit Union – Portland, IN
A football theme resonated with the community enabling CrossRoads Financial Federal Credit
Union to exceed its original goal of raising $1,000 and collecting 10 boxes of non-perishable
items to stock the shelves at local food banks. Its “Tackling Hunger” campaign raised a total of
$2,576 and collected 15 boxes of food, enough to provide nutrition for 452 families. During
October, the credit union used a number of fundraisers, including collecting donations from
members, allowing employees to wear jeans for a $5 contribution, and stationing volunteers at
the town's main intersection for a “CrossRoads at the CrossRoads” collection from passing
motorists.
Dora Maxwell ($50 to $100 Million in Assets)
First Place
Rock Valley Federal Credit Union – Loves Park, IL
A credit union employee's attendance at a Rotary Club presentation sparked Rock Valley
Federal Credit Union's “Adopt a Camper” fundraising campaign, enabling 35 individuals with
special needs to attend summer camp. Initially, Rock Valley sought to raise $1,500 in order to
support the camp experience of 15 residents of MILESTONE, an organization providing group
homes and other services to people with developmental disabilities. Through blue jeans day,
water park ticket sales, a silent auction, a “Bears vs. Packers” coin jar collection and other
donations, the credit union raised $2,947. Rock Valley made an additional $553 donation to
bring the total to $3,500, enough to send 35 residents to camp, or more than double the original
goal.
Second Place
Michigan One Community Credit Union – Ionia, MI
Michigan One Community Credit Union sought to provide a boost to downtown Ionia local
businesses and area non-profits with its “Mingle & Jingle: Cool Communities Give” holiday
shopping event. Area non-profits were paired with the businesses, where they were able to set
up displays explaining their missions and services. Participating businesses donated 10 percent
of each purchase to the non-profit designated by the shopper. After visiting each business and
display, shoppers were invited to enjoy refreshments and enter for a chance to win a credit
union-sponsored $300 drawing as well as vote for their favorite non-profit. The non-profit with
- 19 -
the most votes received $300 from the credit union.
Honorable Mention
Carolina Postal Credit Union – Charlotte, NC
Carolina Postal Credit Union assisted the National Letter Carriers Annual Food Drive by
spreading the word about the need for food donations through billboards, social media, and
postcards. In contrast to results nationwide, where donations from the food drive dipped 8
percent, donations stayed the course in North Carolina, showing a slight increase over the
previous year. More than 700,000 pounds were collected in the credit union's target areas.
Carolina Postal also collected $16,000 in donations for a teen-age member injured in a rodeo
accident.
Dora Maxwell ($100 to $200 Million in Assets)
First Place
Mid Missouri Credit Union – Ft. Leonard Wood, MO
Mid Missouri Credit Union showed its support and gratitude for those who serve our country by
hosting its 6th Annual Military Appreciation Day at the Springfield Cardinals baseball game. Its
“Put a Soldier in a Seat” campaign raised more than $15,000, surpassing its goal of $14,000.
The funds, raised through jeans days, member donations, car washes and sponsorships,
covered the cost of 1,800 game day tickets for active duty military, reservists and retired military
and their immediate families, as well as a tee-shirt and vouchers for popcorn and a hot dog. By
exceeding its goal, Mid Missouri was able to purchase 100 VIP tickets that were distributed at
random to soldiers.
Second Place
Streator Onized Credit Union – Streator, IL
Streator Onized Credit Union lit up its community, both literally and figuratively, with its holiday
Animated Light Show and 31 Days of Giving initiative. Each day in December was matched
with a charity or social service organizations. The credit union far exceeded its initial goal of
raising $6,200 – roughly $200 for each of the designated charities – through fundraisers, such
as casual days, raffles, bake sales and bus trips as well as the donations from display visitors.
The credit union ultimately raised more than $14,000 allowing it to contribute to each of the 60
organizations that had applied to be part of the 31 Days of Giving.
Honorable Mention
SPC Credit Union – Hartsville, SC
SPC Credit Union raised funds for the March of Dimes as well as raised the esprit de corps of
the community by organizing and staffing A Taste of Marlboro County. The event brought 250
residents together to sample offerings from local restaurants and businesses and raised
$4,321.83 for the March of Dimes. SPC helped satisfy the residents' appetite for camaraderie as
well, as the dissolution of the local Chamber of Commerce had left it bereft of opportunities for
community-building events. The credit union also was active in other charitable activities
throughout the year, and introduced Cares2Share, a branded employee-giving campaign.
- 20 -
Dora Maxwell ($200 to $500 Million in Assets)
First Place
Alabama Credit Union – Tuscaloosa, AL
Free and reduced school breakfast and lunch programs help feed kids during the school week,
but many spend the weekend hungry, returning to school on Monday morning with growling
stomachs. Alabama Credit Union's Secret Meals for Hungry Children helps to fill that gap. Childfriendly, non-perishable, easily consumed and vitamin-fortified snacks and meals are slipped
into the backpacks of at-risk children. The secrecy is key to ensuring kids are not subjected to
ridicule or singled out by other students. Demand for the program is on the rise, with 1,100
children receiving Secret Meals last year, a 22 percent increase from the previous year.
Fundraisers, both large and small, at the credit union and in the community, help pay the
$132,000 grocery bill. Last year, the program surpassed that goal, raising $170,000.
Second Place
CASE Credit Union – Lansing MI
Through a team effort, CASE Credit Union is giving every child a chance to play ball. In
partnership with Dewitt Charter Township, the credit union's charitable affiliate, CASE Cares,
raised $669,000 in donations and grants to construct its Miracle Baseball Field designed for use
by those with cognitive and physical disabilities. The Miracle Field features a rubberized surface
with painted bases, allowing players with special needs to play ball in a barrier-free, safe,
inclusive and fun environment. Future fundraising is planned to add an announcer's booth,
lighting and an electronic scoreboard, bringing the total support to $1.1 million.
Honorable Mention
Merck Sharp & Dohme Federal Credit Union – Chalfont, PA
Merck Sharp & Dohme Federal Credit Union held an “udderly” successful fundraiser for two
local charities with its 12th annual Cow Plop. Teams of credit union employees sold three-foot
square property “deeds” for a $10 donation. On Cow Plop Day, the “owner” of the property
where the cow was “moo-ved” to heed the call of nature won a cash prize of 10 percent of the
funds raised, while owners of the two adjacent deeds shared another 10 percent. Eighty percent
– $24,000 – was divided equally between Manna on Main Street, an interfaith outreach
organization and The Shepherd's Shelf, an emergency food pantry. The event has raised more
than $200,000 since its inception in 2000 and enables the credit union to involve its staff in
helping others as well as have fun for a worthy cause.
Dora Maxwell ($500 Million to $1 Billion in Assets)
First Place
Credit Union ONE – Ferndale, MI
Credit Union ONE re-purposed a former office into a facility for FernCare, a local non-profit
organization that provides health care services to the uninsured or underinsured. In addition to
the space, the credit union donated staff time to coordinate the renovation process with
architects, engineers and contractors, as well as to secure the appropriate government permits
and provided much of the office furniture being used at the clinic. The lack of a permanent home
from which to provide care to its patients had constrained FernCare's effectiveness. With Credit
- 21 -
Union ONE's help, FernCare has been able to make a significant shift in operating expenses
from facilities to patient care.
Second Place
Kitsap Credit Union – Bremerton, WA
Kitsap Credit Union helped alter perceptions of what “poor” looks and feels like by co-hosting
“Life on the Edge in Kitsap County,” a day-long workshop, poverty-simulation, resource fair and
celebration of successes. The sold-out event was the first of its kind in the area – combining
education with an emotional, experiential learning opportunity in which participants spend time
in the shoes of those who live in poverty. During the simulation, the participants – elected
officials, local community leaders, educators, employers, social service providers, members of
the law enforcement and the faith communities – role played anyone from a single parent to
senior citizens to a store clerk to a pawn broker. Following the simulation, participants debriefed
and identified action steps that could be taken both as individuals and as a community to help
eradicate poverty.
Honorable Mention
Credit Union 1 – Anchorage, AK
Credit Union 1 created the One for All Alaska Fund as a way to help alleviate a statewide
hunger problem. Each branch office solicited donations from members, who were advised that
the funds collected there would be used within the local community. In addition, $5 of the $25
fee charged for the credit union's Skip-A-Pay service was contributed to the fund. At year-end, a
total of $14,152.72 was distributed to seven organizations located throughout Alaska that
provide food for the hungry.
Dora Maxwell (More than $1 Billion in Assets)
First Place
American Heritage Federal Credit Union – Philadelphia, PA
American Heritage Federal Credit Union's support of the Kids-N-Hope Foundation allows
hospitalized children to benefit from a Music Therapy Program at the Children's Hospital of
Philadelphia Children's Seashore House. The Music Therapy Program promotes healing and
rehabilitation through group and individual sessions. Music therapy helps children work through
their trauma and encourages the development of strategies for coping with hospitalization.
Exceeding its $75,000 goal, American Heritage raised $80,000 through fundraisers that included
a golf outing, gelatin olympics, antique and classic car show and through employee and
member donations, bringing its total donations in 15 years to $760,000.
Second Place
Desert Schools Federal Credit Union – Phoenix, AZ
Premium silent auction items including autographed sports memorabilia, a trip to Disneyland,
golf packages plus tickets to popular concerts and sporting events and more highlighted the
Desert Schools Federal Credit Union 14th Annual CMN Golf Tournament. The event attracted 45
foursomes and raised more than $290,000. The money was earmarked for the Phoenix
Children's Hospital's “1 Darn Cool School.” The school serves grades K-12 and allows young
- 22 -
patients to continue learning, which helps to lower their anxiety. The program provides
individualized instruction, homebound coordination, a liaison between hospital and school,
school re-entry program, inpatient/outpatient literacy programs and summer theme-based
enrichment programs.
Honorable Mention
Indiana Members Credit Union – Indianapolis, IN
Indiana Members Credit Union raised more than $75,000 for backpacks filled with school
supplies for 3,500 children in need. In its fourth year, The Backpack Attack ensures children
have the tools they need for succeeding in the classroom. Special events, such as a Bowl-AThon and a golf outing and numerous candy, yard and other sales helped raise the needed
funds and a coordinated volunteer effort assembled the backpacks and handed them out. The
Backpack Attack attracted local media attention as well as mentions in the credit union trade
press. Television coverage alone is estimated to have reached 468,029 people, with a total
publicity value of $21,187.
Dora Maxwell (Credit Union Chapters or Multiple Credit Union Group)
First Place
Pittsburgh Chapter of Credit Unions – Pittsburgh, PA
Kids visiting Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh for treatment now have less of a frightening
experience and more of an adventure, thanks to the Pittsburgh Chapter of Credit Unions. A twoyear fundraising effort culminated in the sponsorship of a pirate-themed Distraction Therapy
room, designed to divert young patients' attention and allay their fears and anxiety about their
treatments. The Chapter raised $30,000, exceeding its original goal by $5,000. It also was
awarded a Miracle Match grant of $10,000. Twenty-one credit unions took part in the campaign,
raising funds through a Miracle Jeans Day (which allowed employees to wear jeans in exchange
for a minimum $5 donation) as well as a number of other events culminating in an auction at its
holiday meeting.
Second Place
Indiana Credit Union League – Indianapolis, IN
The goal of the Indiana Credit Unions: Commitment to Change program is to track, promote and
communicate the difference credit unions are making in their communities. Developed over a
two-year period by working group from the League's “Ignite” initiative, the program features a
Web site that allows credit unions to share their community involvement stories and best
practices as well as collaborate on projects. The Web site also highlights the amount of money
and number of volunteer hours that credit unions in the Hoosier State have contributed to their
communities. This tally and the accounts of community involvement are important tools in the
league's lobbying efforts.
- 23 -
LOUISE HERRING PHILOSOPHY-IN-ACTION MEMBER SERVICE AWARD
Louise Herring (Less than $50 Million in Assets)
First Place
Syracuse Cooperative Federal Credit Union – Syracuse, NY
Syracuse Cooperative Federal Credit Union offers a Matched Savings Program, which provides
Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) for first-time homeownership, microbusinesses, higher
education and vehicle purchase. Members with low and moderate incomes are eligible to
participate in the IDA program, enabling them to accumulate savings for goals that previously
may have seemed unattainable. The Matched Savings Program combines education and
counseling with a structured savings plan. Once members reach their savings goals and
complete the educational requirements, all or part of their savings is matched, depending on
their goals. The credit union raised grant funds to use for the match, which serve to motivate
and leverage personal savings.
Second Place
Communicating Arts Credit Union – Detroit, MI
Communicating Arts Credit Union's “Auto Loan Bailout” program leveraged a grant from the
Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, allowing 123 members to save $520,000
in interest. The loan modification program offered members the chance to cut in half whatever
rate they were paying on their vehicle loans – some as much as 25 percent APR – and attracted
favorable publicity in local, state and national press. The program not only slashed loan
payments, but also served as an educational opportunity to help members understand the
importance of good credit and that the credit union offers an alternative to predatory lenders.
Honorable Mention
United Labor Credit Union – Kansas City, MO
United Labor Credit Union hosts an annual Union Retiree Financial Forum to educate union
members who are retired or about to retire on topics such as Social Security, estate planning,
consumer protection and earning income in retirement. The Forum, which is free-of-charge, also
features health and wellness screenings. As a trusted source of financial information for its
members, the credit union carefully selects speakers who are experts in their fields and are not
selling a specific product or service. The Forum is well-received by the participants who
appreciate the opportunity to get honest and straight-forward answers to the difficult financial
decisions faced in retirement.
Louise Herring ($50 to $250 Million in Assets)
First Place
St. Louis Community Credit Union – St. Louis, MO
St. Louis Community Credit Union partnered with Grace Hill Settlement House and the Better
Family Life’s MET Center, two social service agencies that provide resources to underserved
populations to open micro-branches within their facilities. The community organizations are
located within economically distressed areas where check cashers and payday lenders
dominate the financial services marketplace. By opening the micro-branches, the credit union
- 24 -
not only has a cost-effective way to provide a full array of financial services, but also secured a
platform from which it could gain the trust of those who may be wary of mainstream financial
institutions.
Second Place
GEMC Federal Credit Union – Tucker, GA
GEMC Federal Credit Union's HomePlus Energy Loan program attracted more than 2,500 new
members who took advantage of the program's zero percent financing to make energy efficient
improvements to their homes. The zero percent financing was made possible by a $3 million
grant from an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant, secured through a partnership
with a power supply cooperative, one of GEMC's Select Employee Groups. GEMC approved,
processed and funded the loans to members of Georgia's electric co-ops, who joined the credit
union when they applied for the loans and make loan payments as part of their utility bills. The
HomePlus Energy Loan program has funded nearly $13.5 million of home improvement
projects.
Honorable Mention
Public Service Credit Union – Romulus, MI
With the opening of its Focus: HOPE branch, Public Service Credit Union seeks to help one of
the lowest-wealth communities in Detroit, a city hard hit by the Great Recession. The credit
union is using word-of-mouth advertising to gain the trust of community members, many of
whom distrust mainstream financial institutions and pay to cash their checks at the party (liquor)
store on the corner and use predatory lenders for credit. Through classes, seminars and oneon-one counseling, the credit union is helping many residents understand the importance and
power of money.
Louise Herring ($250 Million to $1 Billion in Assets)
First Place
Commonwealth Credit Union – Frankfort, KY
Commonwealth Credit Union invited members and potential members to “Stop. $ave.” And,
indeed they did, reaping nearly $1.3 million in interest savings. The program provided a free
review of current bills and credit reports, including checking for fraudulent activity and for
interest rates the credit union could lower on loans financed elsewhere. If the credit union could
not offer a better rate, the member would be paid $25. Only 11 members collected the $25. In its
first-stage, 52 loans were identified saving members almost $129,000 in interest, including
slashing $15,695 in interest for one member. In its second stage, the project saved 85
members some $252,000 in interest on loans and 38 members more than $900,000 in
mortgage interest.
Second Place
DuPont Community Credit Union – Waynesboro, VA
DuPont Community Credit Union renovated a bank building for its newest branch, the Reservoir
Member Center. The branch features a barrier-free environment (no teller line, formal desks or
closed-in offices) conducive to engaging members in conversation about their financial needs
- 25 -
and goals and ways the credit union can meet them. A Member Advisor greets members at the
door and is empowered to provide immediate assistance, rather than handing them off to
someone else – be it taking a deposit or discussing home loan options. Members can try out the
latest in mobile devices at an “@ Your Service Bar,” where credit union staff demonstrate how to
conduct financial transactions online and on-the-go.
Honorable Mention
Michigan First Credit Union – Lathrup Village, MI
Michigan First Credit Union's Turning Point Home Loan allows members who need an
alternative to a traditional mortgage to achieve their dreams of homeownership. Michigan First
holds the mortgages so that members who may have a tarnished credit record or a previous
foreclosure can take advantage of low interest rates and home prices in the Detroit Metro area,
which has been hard hit by the economic downturn. The program also has served as a stepping
stone to the credit union's traditional mortgage offerings. The credit union offers seminars on
home buying throughout the year to help members better understand the process.
Louise Herring (More than $1 Billion in Assets)
First Place
State Employees' Credit Union – Raleigh, NC
Through its Estate Planning Essentials Program (EPE), State Employees' Credit Union seeks to
provide members with the tools needed to build a sound financial plan for the future and the
opportunity to gain peace-of-mind, knowing that their wishes will be carried out. The credit union
identified experienced estate planning attorneys who agree to prepare basic documents for the
fixed price of $250 for individuals and $350 for couples with substantially similar estate plans
prepared at the same time. Recognizing that even these prices might make an estate plan out
of reach for some of its members, the credit union offers a low-cost loan to cover the fees. In the
two years since EPE was launched, the credit union has helped more than 7,000 members
achieve their estate planning goals.
Second Place
Wright-Patt Credit Union – Fairborn, OH
A “You Save or We Pay” program saved members of Wright-Patt Credit Union more than $20
million in interest, or double the credit union’s original goal of trimming $10 million from
members' payments. The credit union invited its members to: “Give us 20 minutes. If we can't
find a way to save you money on your loans....we'll pay you $50.” Only 124 of the 1,683
members who took the credit union up on its offer and had their credit reports reviewed had low
enough loan rates somewhere else – they walked away with $50 for their time. The remaining
93 percent refinanced nearly $65 million in loans with the credit union.
Honorable Mention
TruMark Financial Credit Union – Trevose, PA
With the opening of its Eastern North Philadelphia branch, TruMark Financial Credit Union
brought affordable financial services to an impoverished community that has been devoid of a
financial institution for more than 60 years. The full-service branch offers bilingual brochures and
is staffed by bilingual, multi-cultural employees. The credit union conducted extensive research
- 26 -
and preparation, including partnering with APM, a Hispanic-based community and economic
development organization, to ensure it would gain the support of community members, who
previously relied on check-cashers and predatory lenders for their financial services. The credit
union actively promotes financial literacy in a variety of ways including one-on-one counseling,
seminars and raising money for the purchase of materials for schools with a “Kiss-A-Pig”
fundraiser.
Louise Herring (Credit Union Chapters or Multiple Credit Union Group)
First Place
Erie Chapter of Credit Unions – Erie, PA
In honor of its long-standing president, James J. DeDad, the Erie, PA Chapter of Credit Union
annually presents $8,000 in scholarships. Nearly 200 students entered the scholarship
competition, funded by donations from 11 credit unions in the chapter. Applicants were asked to
write a 500-word essay in response to the question: “Young people often find themselves
carrying large amounts of student loan and/or credit card debt upon graduation from college.
What can you do to prevent yourself from overspending in college?” The six winners received
scholarship awards ranging from $500 to $3,000. The scholarship program has awarded a total
of $123,000 since its inception in 1995.
###
- 27 -