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Jamie Mawhinney and Elise Baldacci.
Credit unions care deeply about their communities, supporting them day in and day out by uplifting programs and initiatives that give back to community members. In the credit union industry, this is demonstrated through our shared People Helping People philosophy. Each year at Elevate, our League honors one special credit union employee whose efforts shine bright—not because they want the recognition, but because it’s simply the right thing to do.
This year, we are proud to recognize Jamie Mawhinney, Chief Growth Officer at Atlantic FCU, as the recipient of the Diane L. Oceretko People Helping People Award, honoring her extraordinary leadership, unwavering commitment to community service, and transformative impact on hunger-relief efforts throughout Southern Maine.
For the past six years, Mawhinney has been the driving force behind Atlantic’s Campaign for Ending Hunger initiatives, turning passion into action and inspiring others to make a meaningful difference. Through her vision, dedication, and ability to bring people together, she has elevated Atlantic’s community impact and strengthened support for families facing food insecurity across the region.
When Mawhinney assumed leadership of Atlantic’s Ending Hunger Crew in 2020, the organization’s annual Sweepstakes Calendar fundraiser generated approximately $15,000 each year. Under her guidance, that effort has grown into one of Southern Maine’s most successful fundraising campaigns, now raising more than $45,000 annually. Through strategic planning, relationship-building, and hands-on leadership, Mawhinney helped secure more than $11,000 in annual cash prizes and cultivate a loyal network of sponsors who continue to support the cause year after year.
Her influence extends far beyond a single fundraiser. Mawhinney played a pivotal role in aligning the work of the Ending Hunger Crew with the Atlantic Foundation following its establishment in 2020. Together, these efforts now generate more than $140,000 annually for hunger-relief initiatives, contributing nearly $850,000 over the past six years. As a result, Atlantic has expanded its support network from existing pantry partners to include six additional programs, helping provide resources to 22 food pantries across Southern Maine.
Those numbers represent more than dollars raised—they represent thousands of meals served and critical support delivered to families and individuals facing hunger.
Mawhinney’s leadership style is defined by her ability to build both effective systems and strong teams. Each year, she welcomes a new group of employee volunteers to the Ending Hunger Crew, providing clear processes, guidance, and encouragement that empower them to contribute from day one. Although the Sweepstakes Calendar culminates in a single annual event, her work continues year-round as she keeps volunteers engaged, informed, and motivated throughout the fundraising cycle.
“Jamie is the heart of our Ending Hunger team,” said Atlantic FCU employee and Ending Hunger Committee volunteer Elizabeth Neptune. “During a shift volunteering at the Good Shepherd Food Bank, I saw her jump in with true hands-on leadership, packing boxes and doing whatever was needed without hesitation. She’s always the first to step up, quietly rallying others. Jamie’s compassion, reliability, and steady presence make our work stronger and our team better every single day.”
That same commitment to service can be seen in the relationships Mawhinney has cultivated throughout the community. Sponsors continue to return because she ensures they understand the tangible impact of their support. Through consistent communication and transparent reporting, Mawhinney has transformed sponsorships into long-term partnerships built on trust, accountability, and shared purpose.
In addition to leading Atlantic FCU’s Ending Hunger efforts, Mawhinney coordinates the credit union’s monthly volunteer service at the Saco Meals Program, where employees help prepare and serve meals to community members. The program provides more than nourishment—it offers connection, dignity, and a welcoming space for guests. Thanks to Mawhinney’s leadership, this volunteer initiative has become an important part of the credit union’s culture of service.
Mawhinney’s impact reaches beyond Atlantic as well. Believing that ending hunger is a collective mission, she has worked closely with the League to share Atlantic’s successful fundraising strategies and Sweepstakes Calendar tools with other credit unions across the state. By helping others strengthen their own hunger-relief efforts, she has expanded the positive impact of the credit union movement and helped more Maine families access essential support.
Through her leadership, Atlantic FCU has:
- Tripled annual Sweepstakes fundraising
- Raised nearly $850,000 to support Maine families
- Expanded support to 22 food pantries throughout Southern Maine
- Built sustainable volunteer systems that engage employees year-round
- Strengthened sponsor loyalty through transparency and stewardship
- Created a powerful partnership with the Atlantic Foundation
- Advanced statewide Ending Hunger initiatives through collaboration and knowledge sharing
Perhaps most importantly, Mawhinney has embedded community service into the fabric of Atlantic FCU. She has inspired colleagues to serve with purpose, demonstrated the power of compassionate leadership, and shown what is possible when dedication is paired with action.
Mawhinney embodies the spirit and purpose of the Diane L. Oceretko People Helping People Award. Her leadership elevates those around her, strengthens communities, and creates lasting change. We are honored to celebrate her remarkable contributions and the profound impact she continues to make throughout Maine.