GRIFFITH, Ind. United Federal Credit Union (UFCU) donated $1,000 to Northwest Indiana Cancer Kids Foundation, or NICK, to assist parents and families with children fighting cancer. Cash has been needed in lieu of gifts during this holiday time, when parents are struggling to find ways to pay bills or travel to be with children receiving treatment.
NICK not only provides financial assistance but connects families with similar experiences for support during a difficult time. Special services offered by NICK include home cleaning through hospital stays, help with out-of-state travel, and private benefit coaching for family members or friends that may want to raise funds for the family.
UFCU learned of NICK this past summer through its co-founder, Donna Criner. With many of the same common goals for children, UFCU has since collaborated with NICK offering financial support, participation in its Kids in Capes Walk & Run, and help in its retail store with UFCU employee involvement.
"After seeing the Criner family journey and the work of NICK, I knew it was something United Federal Credit Union should be a part of," said UFCU Griffith Branch Manager Sylvia Torbica.
The Criners story of pediatric cancer is that of their grandson, Drew, who was diagnosed with Stage IV Neuroblastoma in 2007. At the time of Drews illness, the Criners realized there was nothing like having someone to turn to who had truly been there. Their story is one of triumph and hope.
"We strive to give that same hope to newly-diagnosed families in our community," elaborated NICK co-founder Donna Criner. "With help from compassionate businesses like United Federal Credit Union, were also able to raise money to fund pediatric cancer research."
Additionally, UFCU employees volunteer at the NICK retail store, located in Schererville. 100% of store proceeds go to the NICK Foundation and the families it serves. "To date, more than 45 families have received help," added Torbica.
To encourage community involvement, all UFCU staff are able to volunteer for their preferred charities or organizations on company time. "Each employee receives up to 8 hours of paid time off to volunteer each year," explained Torbica. "It not only spreads community goodwill but also sends a terrific message to staff."
United Federal Credit Union President/CEO Gary Easterling added, "Weve all been witness to the ravaging effects of cancer. We want to support our employees and the work NICK does, to serve kids with cancer, and ultimately, help find a cure for this terrible disease."
With 21 branches nationwide, UFCU develops strong roots in every community it serves.
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About UFCU
United Federal Credit Union has served its Members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. UFCU consists of more than 120,000 Member/owners worldwide, and manages assets in excess of $1.57 billion. Its corporate offices and main branch are located in St. Joseph, Mich., with additional branches in Arkansas, Indiana, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, and Ohio. UFCU has been named the
Michigan Credit Union League Outstanding Credit Union of the Year 2013. UFCU has also been named
the National Federal Credit Union of the Year 2013 by the National Association of Federal Credit Unions.
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About NICK
Northwest Indiana Cancer Kids (NICK) is a 501c3 charity founded by the Criner family. Its goal is to offer emotional and financial support to families struggling with the unimaginable stress of a child with cancer. To learn more or make a donation, visit
http://www.nwicancerkids.org/index.php.
