Credit Union Donates Over $1,100 to Burn Camp
July 21, 2014
KALAMAZOO, Mich.� Educational Community Credit Union (ECCU) has donated $1,154 to the Great Lakes Burn Camp (GLBC) to assist more than 60 Michigan kids attending the summer session, August 9-15, 2014, at Pretty Lake Vacation Camp, Mattawan. Children ages 6 to 17 who have survived traumatic burns can relax at camp, have fun and connect with one another. Funds were raised by ECCU staff during a recent pay to wear jeans week and will be used to support a variety of camp activities.
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GLBC was formed in 1995 by firefighter Mike Longenecker and burn survivor Chris Klavon, who had visited a similar camp in Minnesota. "Our mission is to bring together children whove suffered similar injuries for friendship and fun," says Longenecker, who now serves as Camp Director. "Here, kids feel comfortable and realize theyre not alone with their scars."
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Kids will enjoy swimming, water skiing, kayaking, arts and crafts, archery, and a special drive-in movie night with a giant 40 by 30 inflatable screen. Mental health professionals will also be on-hand to oversee the campers emotional well-being. Unique to GLBC is registered therapy dog, Lady, a burn survivor herself who plays with the kids and creates a positive bonding experience.�
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ECCU became acquainted with the camp through ECCU member, Bub Sherwood. "Weve supported the GLBC through Bub for several years," says Financial Services Representative Lisa Blankenship. "This year, staff raised funds by wearing jeans to work to help Bub reach his goal." Sherwood raised additional funds, nearly $9,000 total for the GLBC, by sponsoring a classic car show, raffle, and other activities at the Texas Corral Restaurant Backyard BBQ on June 29th.�
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Sherwood, who owns Bub Sherwoods Auto Repair in Galesburg, has been an ECCU member since 2001. "The credit union always supported the GLBC through Comstock Daze and theyre still behind the camp and community 100 percent. Theyve always been there for me and my family, too."�
This year marks GLBCs 20th Anniversary, with many campers returning each year and some becoming camp counselors. "Building lifelong relationships is why so many of us believe in and work for the camp," adds Longenecker.
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ECCU supports the GLBC and a variety of causes close to the hearts of members and staff. "Do the Right Thing is a core value for us and part of our mission in giving back," concludes Blankenship.�
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With seven convenient locations, ECCU is a full service financial institution serving anyone who lives or works in a 21-county area in West Michigan. For details on credit union membership, visit www.eccu1.org.