The credit union was founded on the principle of “People
Helping People.” We are an organization where people are valued over money. Not only do we strive to make that part of our business foundation, but we aim to carry that out into our community. GECU has a long tradition of being a good neighbor. We enjoy helping local schools, charities, and worthy organizations with financial donations and volunteers from our staff.
Each year, GECU provides different opportunities for our employees to volunteer
and support organizations within our community. With the majority of our employees participating,
the response is overwhelming. Here are a few ways GECU and its employees have committed to the betterment of the
those within our community:
Cunningham Memorial Scholarship This scholarship was created in 1998 to recognize graduating, college-bound high school seniors who embody the spirit of volunteerism.
This spirit, fostered by Robert A. Cunningham during his 30 years of volunteer service to GECU,
with his love of children’s sports and his commitment to scholastic achievement and collegiate education,
is the reason for these annual scholarships. Mr. Cunningham served as a board member of the credit union from 1966-1995. During his 30 years of devoted service, he sat on the supervisory committee for ten years and served three terms as
Chairperson of the Board. He helped mold this credit union into what it is today.
Starting in 1998, we began awarding $7,500 to five college bound seniors to
help cover the cost of their college education. In 2007 we increased this award
amount and began offering $10,000 in scholarship money to the five recipients. To qualify for the scholarship, applicants need to be
a college-bound high school senior with a strong academic record and an active
member of GECU. And, most importantly, they have to exemplify the spirit of volunteerism fostered by Robert Cunningham. The deadline for the scholarship application is typically in mid-January;
applications are available at the credit union and online from this website starting in October. The five
recipients of the scholarship are notified in early spring and are highlighted
in Bright Horizons in our April edition.
United Way The credit union and its employees are yearly contributors to the
United Way campaign. Over the years, GECU has continuously reached its goals in
supporting the United Way and its efforts to help those in need within our
community. To date, GECU and its employees have pledged over $196,300 to the
United Way, with contributions in 2006 reaching over $13,500. And, with a little over $.90 of every dollar going to local
organizations that help our community, GECU and its employees continue to
generously give to help this wonderful cause.
St. Rita Fest
GECU is a proud sponsor of the annual St. Rita Fest, and our employees volunteer their time to help manage multiple booths
throughout the festival weekend. Their enthusiasm and dedication to the cause
really is exemplified every year at St. Rita Fest. In fact, because of
the generosity of the credit union and its employees, we have made the St. Rita
Fest an annual volunteer opportunity.
American Diabetes Association's
"Walk for Diabetes"
Each year, credit union employees raise funds for the American Diabetes
Association and volunteer their time at "America's Walk for Diabetes." Over the
years, the credit union has raised over $16,000 for the American Diabetes
Association. These funds help people with diabetes lead a healthier life by
funding research, education programs, and advocating the rights of those
affected with diabetes. GECU is proud to participate in this annual event.
The Lymphoma & Leukemia Society's "Costumed for a Cure" This annual event, held every Halloween, has been
a tradition of GECU for many years. GECU employees participate in "Costumed
for a Cure" by dressing up in their favorite Halloween costume for the workday.
All donations to participate in the event are donated to the Lymphoma & Leukemia
Society.
Partnership in Education GECU has partnered with Mason High School to better educate the students,
faculty, parents, and community on financial choices that help in achieving a
successful financial future. Since 2004, we have sponsored a program, the School
Fees Program, that provides
assistance and pays school fees for those students who cannot afford to on their
own. To date, we have assisted over 35 students with this program. We have also sponsored many other activities including:
programs, ads, special events, and scholarships.
Local Area Schools The credit union philosophy of "People Helping People" is visible at GECU by
the countless sponsorships and volunteering that is seen throughout many local
area schools. From after-prom sponsorships to mentoring students, the credit
union is known for helping numerous local schools and communities.
Chamber of Commerce Membership
GECU participates in several area chambers to enhance
and support our local community and build strong ties with other area businesses. GECU belongs to the following Chambers of Commerce:
