Brett Smith presenting Make-a-Wish Vermont’s portion of the $15,000 raised. The remaining $3,500 goes to Make-a-Wish New Hampshire. (Left: James Hathaway, President & CEO of Make-a-Wish VT. Right: Brett Smith Make-a-wish VT Board chair and CEO of One Credit union.)
Vermont Business Magazine Brett Smith, President and CEO of One Credit Union, has presented the Credit Union’s annual donation to James Hathaway, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Vermont. Through member donations and employee contributions, One Credit Union raised $7,000 for Make-a-Wish in 2021. Traditionally, the Credit Union matches all contributions to Make-a-Wish. Given the difficulties of the last couple years, One CU decided to put a cherry on top, for a grand total of $15,000 to Make-a-Wish.
Donations were raised during branch events, on the One CU website, and from employees through an optional payroll deduction program. “The giving happens all year in various ways and provides a great deal of support by the end of the year,” said Smith.
These funds will go to grant wishes for critically ill kids in Vermont and New Hampshire. Wishes impact everyone involved – starting with wish kids, and spreading to parents, volunteers, donors, and our communities at large.
Smith knows this firsthand. “I am the uncle of a wish kid. Some 22 years ago, my then 14-year-old nephew was granted a wish when he was being treated for cancer. While it did not cure him, the impact was incredible on him and his family for the short period of time he had left.”
Smith goes on to explain how special the relationship between One CU and Make-a-Wish is. “The philosophy for credit unions is ‘People Helping People.’ Our role is to help our members through every financial aspect of their lives. This is especially true when ‘Life’ happens. A blown furnace, a car repair, or any other unforeseen financial road bump – we’re here to help. Make-a-Wish is dear to us because they support our community members when they are suffering. When the worst of ‘Life’ is happening to them, Make-a-Wish is there to help. Together, we can make a difference”
About One Credit Union
One Credit Union, headquartered in Springfield, VT, is a member owned financial institution with branches in South Barre, Chester, Essex, Springfield, Vergennes, VT, Claremont and Newport, NH. One CU provides a full range of financial solutions for consumers and small businesses. Learn more.
Source: Shelburne, VT – One Credit Union 2.7.2022