ROME, NY – DECEMBER 17, 2024: AmeriCU Credit Union is pleased to announce the winners of its first-ever Community Giving Contest! As part of a $20,000 initiative, ten outstanding organizations from Tompkins County have each been awarded $1,000. This contest was designed to support nonprofits in Tompkins and St. Lawrence counties, helping them fulfill their missions and create meaningful connections to make our communities stronger.

The contest is a testament to AmeriCU’s commitment to generously give back to the community. Through this initiative, AmeriCU aimed to recognize organizations that work tirelessly to improve their communities, ensuring vital resources and services reach those who need them.

“We’re local, and we’re proud to be part of the communities we serve,” said Ron Belle, AmeriCU’s President & CEO.  “We believe in the power of giving back, and supporting those who work hard to create positive change.  Our community organizations play a crucial role, and we are honored to contribute to their missions.

This Community Contest reflects AmeriCU Credit Union’s dedication to its mission of enhancing the financial well-being of its members, while investing in the strength of local communities. Winners were selected from all eligible entries by a panel of judges chosen by AmeriCU Credit Union.

Congratulations to the Tompkins County Winners!

1. Women’s Opportunity Center of Tompkins & Onondaga Counties – Enhancing the delivery of health and human services.
2. Center for the Arts at Ithaca, Inc. dba Hangar Theatre – Teaching and mentoring the next generation of theatre artists through theatrical productions.
3. Tompkins Connect – Fostering networking and community engagement among young professionals.
4. Human Services Coalition – Enhancing community well-being by providing health and human services planning.
5. Foodnet Meals on Wheels – Providing nutritious meals to older adults and vulnerable individuals.
6. SPCA Tompkins County – Protecting companion animals by preventing animal cruelty and overpopulation.
7. Community Foundation of Tompkins County – Creating a more equitable county by providing grants and fostering philanthropy.
8. Hospicare – Providing compassionate care to individuals facing terminal illness.
9. Fingerlakes Independence Center – Eliminating social barriers to empower people with disabilities.
10. Family and Children’s Service of Ithaca – Providing mental healthcare to individuals battling mental illness.

The Community Giving Contest reflects AmeriCU Credit Union’s dedication to its mission of enhancing the financial well-being of its members, while investing in the strength of local communities. While the contest may be over, AmeriCU continues to support organizations in our community, year-round, through volunteerism and donations.

For more information on AmeriCU Credit Union’s community involvement, or to submit a request form, visit www.AmeriCU.org.

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About AmeriCU

As a credit union, AmeriCU is a not-for-profit financial institution owned by our members. Serving 24 counties in New York and beyond, AmeriCU provides you with all the products and services you need – often with low or no fees, and better rates. The organization has been serving the local community for over 74 years and, in that time, has grown to more than 167,000 members, 20 financial centers, and $2.7 billion in assets. AmeriCU is located in Central New York and is among the State’s largest, full-service financial cooperatives. For more information, visit www.AmeriCU.org.