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MANCHESTER, NH – In late 2017, when Members First Credit Union learned of an anticipated refund from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) corporate stabilization fund to all credit unions nationwide, it was compelled to give it away.
“Receiving this refund is like winning the lottery – we didn’t expect it,” said Bruce Leighton, president and CEO, Members First Credit Union, upon receiving word of the impending rebate. “We feel the best course of action is to use the funds to deal with issues happening right outside our very own doors. Everyone, including our members, will stand to benefit from this.”
Embracing the credit union philosophy of ‘People Helping People’ Members First proudly fulfilled its pledge to donate the $109,300 refund in 2018. Contributions included a $50,000 donation to Manchester Safe Station, helping individuals struggling with addiction find a path to recovery, and a $50,000 donation to Manchester Police Athletic League (MPAL), furthering the bond between Manchester police officers and at-risk youth. Members First added a corporate contribution of $20,700 to the remaining $9,300 from the rebate to purchase a van for Granite Pathways, an organization that supports individuals with mental illness and substance use disorder. The van will primarily be used to transport youth receiving treatment at the facility.
This didn’t stop Members First from making other planned donations throughout the year. In total, using funds already earmarked for charitable contributions along with the NCUA refund, Members First gave $190,000 to non-profit organizations in 2018.
“We’re proud supporters of our local community and the organizations that work tirelessly to support individuals fighting substance use disorder and provide a safe place for at-risk youth,” said Leighton. “When we learned of the rebate, we immediately realized the impact it could have on the communities in which we live and work and didn’t hesitate to pay it forward.”
