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(A record-setting total for the 2017 Maine Credit Unions' Campaign for Ending Hunger was announced with help from 3-time Olympian, Devon Harris. Harris, Joann Bisson, Chair of the Maine CU League's Social Responsibility Committee, and Todd Mason, President of the Maine CU League, unveiled the record-setting check to a standing ovation.)
A screenwriter in Hollywood couldn't have written a better script. A packed audience of credit union representatives, a 3-time Olympian who inspired a blockbuster movie, and a highly-anticipated announcement! When the announcement came, it didn't disappoint as the 2017 Maine Credit Unions' Campaign for Ending Hunger revealed that it had raised a record-setting $740,000 for ending hunger in one year!
At the 2017 Ending Hunger Results Luncheon on Tuesday, February 6, the record-setting total was revealed with the help of Devon Harris, a 3-time Olympian with the Jamaican bobsled team and one of the individuals who inspired the Disney hit movie, Cool Runnings. On the 30th anniversary of the history-making appearance by Harris and his three teammates in the Winter Olympics in Calgary, Harris shared his story of hope, passion and gratefulness. "Giving back is one of the most altruistic and selfish things we can do. It's one of the rare things that we can do in life that makes you feel good and others feel good. Having been a child who grew up hungry in Jamaica, I can tell you that what you do truly makes a difference. The people of Maine are fortunate that you do what you do; but, be honest with me, it feels pretty good to do it, doesn't it? That's what giving back does - it makes you feel good."
"During his speech, Harris mixed in humor, humbleness and inspiration that left attendees with a better understanding of what it means to dream, to fail, and to, ultimately, succeed. From a campaign that started 28 years ago and fell short of its initial goal the first year to today when it again sets a new record, demonstrates the power of persistence," stated Jon Paradise, Vice President of Public Affairs and Engagement for the Maine Credit Union League.
Todd Mason, President of the Maine Credit Union League, added, "Harris' point of never waiting until everything is perfect to pursue something are words we can all take to heart. Yes, hunger remains today but less people are hungry in Maine because of what credit unions have done and continue to do."
Harris urged attendees to continue to set new goals but "don't worry about falling short. Making a difference is doing something - talking about making a difference is doing nothing. Do something!"
After Harris' speech, Todd Mason, Joann Bisson, Chair of the League's Social Responsibility Committee, and Harris unveiled the 'big check' with the record-setting total - $740,035.27! All in all, a pretty 'cool' day for everyone involved.