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As the 2017 Maine Credit Unions' Campaign for Ending Hunger enters its final two months, many credit unions are increasing their focus and attention on raising funds for the Campaign. To help provide ideas, best practices and a better understanding on the issue of hunger in Maine, the Maine Credit Union League's Social Responsibility Committee coordinated its Annual Ending Hunger Coordinator Information Rally at Good Shepherd Food Bank's headquarters in Auburn.
Nearly 40 ending hunger coordinators representing credit unions from Aroostook to York counties and nearly everywhere in between gathered for a session that included an overview of the impact that the Campaign has on ending hunger in Maine. "What you do is incredible and you are a tremendous partner to hunger organizations across Maine including our organization. Unfortunately, we have a ways to go before we end hunger in Maine but we wouldn't be nearly as far along with that effort without the support of Maine's credit unions," Kristen Miale, President of Good Shepherd Food Bank, told the group.
The session also included sharing ideas of successful fundraisers that credit unions have held, an overview of the many partnerships that the Campaign has to raise funds including candle sales, wooden rose, soaps and jams, chocolates and more. "We have a lot of turnkey fundraisers that don't take a lot of staff time to create and implement. We recognize that resources are limited so these are a great way to raise funds without having to struggle with staffing," remarked Jon Paradise, Vice President of Governmental and Public Affairs for the Maine CU League, which provides support and resources to the Campaign.
Joann Bisson, President/CEO of Trademark FCU and Chair of the League's Social Responsibility Committee, said the "enthusiasm, passion and cooperation that comes from the ending hunger coordinators to support the Campaign is impressive. I learned a lot myself today, and look forward to taking an even bigger role in the Campaign."
In addition to learning, many of the coordinators spent time sorting and packing food in the Good Shepherd Food Bank's warehouse. "What a great experience to actually put food together for food pantries and families," said one participant. Another added, "This is my first time being involved in the Campaign so I am really excited to get more involved."
All donations to the 2017 Campaign are tax-deductible and can be made online at www.mainecul.org. The results will be announced in February.