Generations Group Home, a nationally-accredited residential group home for at-risk boys, received a $10,000 Micro Community grant from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF). The funds will enable Generations to purchase and install security gates and fencing for their campuses.

Generations Group Home, founded in 1991 by Kathleen Reynolds, houses up to 58 boys ages 10-19 who are caught in a cycle of abuse and who are exhibiting inappropriate behaviors. Generations believes that every person deserves to be treated with care, respect, and fairness; and that one should be held responsible for personal choices and behaviors through a model of trustworthiness and good citizenship. Generations has treated more than 600 boys since it opened, and reports a 98% success rate during that time.

One key to success in the programs offered by Generations is an environment where the residents and employees feel safe and secure. Providing security gates and fencing around the campuses will serve to increase the sense of security and trust that many of these young men have been lacking and which is so crucial to their continued success.

“The Foundation is pleased to provide the support necessary to help this outstanding program,” said CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “As credit unions, it is in our nature to care about our communities. These are wonderful young men who just need a chance. So working with Generations Group Home to help them provide a safe and supportive environment for these boys as they learn and grow is a wonderful opportunity for credit unions to be true to the values that make us different and help these young men thrive and become productive members of society.”

Micro Community Grants allow credit unions in North and South Carolina to partner with local non profit agencies to bring community benefit. The Generations grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Piedmont Chapter of the SC Credit Union League and Greenville Federal Credit Union. The Piedmont Chapter is made up of more than 30 Upstate credit unions. Since it began in late 2005, the Micro Community Grant program has awarded more than $750,000 to agencies throughout the Carolinas.     

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded a $17,500 Micro Community Grant to the Billy Hardee Home for Boys located in Darlington, SC.

The Billy Hardee Home for Boys is a 24 bed residential program for boys ages 12-17 from various social, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. The BHHB is a therapeutic treatment center for boys who are abandoned, neglected, abused or delinquent. In addition, the center offers a Clinical Day Program in conjunction with the Darlington County School District. This program provides boys with the best educational environment to meet their needs while addressing problematic behaviors.

The Billy Hardee Home for Boys provides full meal services for all the residents and young men who attend the Clinical Day Program. This facility serves over 30,000 meals per year. The grant will allow the BHHB to replace the primary stove and freezer in the kitchen improving meal preparation and utility efficiency.

 “Cooking for growing teenage boys is a big enough challenge,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “Providing three meals a day for 25+ teenagers on old equipment is not acceptable.” said Slack adding, “We are appreciative the Billy Hardee Home is here for these young men and glad that credit unions are able to help.”

Micro Community Grants allow credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina to partner with local non profit agencies to bring community benefit. The Billy Hardee Home for Boys grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Pee Dee Chapter of Credit Unions and SPC Cooperative Credit Union.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded a $15,000 Micro Community Grant to the Lucy Daniels Center for Early Childhood Development to fund the Lucy’s Book Club Program.

The Lucy Daniels Center for Early Childhood Development is the largest nonprofit providing mental health services exclusively to children in the Triangle, serving between 500 and 600 children and families annually. The Lucy’s Book Club is a mental health program for children ages birth to six and their parents. This educational outreach program has been designed in response to the growing need to provide children with strong social, emotional, and self-regulation skills. The Center aspires to help as many young children as possible have the best opportunities to grow into emotionally strong, well-adjusted and resilient teenagers and adults.

 “Reading and being read to are extremely critical factors in developing creativity, imagination, as well as healthy social and emotional skills in children.” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “Helping families’ select developmentally appropriate books to share with their children will help establish a life long love of reading.” said Slack adding, “We are glad the Lucy Daniels Center is there for them and credit unions are able to help.”

Micro Community Grants allow credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina to partner with local non profit agencies to bring community benefit. The Lucy’s Book Club grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Tarheel Chapter of Credit Unions and Local Government Federal Credit Union.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded an $11,000 Micro Community Grant to Children First/Communities in Schools of Buncombe County on Wednesday, December 3, 2008. The funds will be used to purchase furniture, supplies and equipment for their Project MARCH homework clubs.

Children First/CIS Project MARCH supports disadvantaged children with the basic necessities such as food, safety and education by providing an opportunity for children and youth to have a safe haven to complete homework, exercise and socialize after school until parents/guardians are available.

 “Providing these kids with a safe, structured place to continue the learning process in a supportive environment is a wonderful endeavor,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “These young people are working hard to learn and become the best they can be,” said Slack adding, “we are just glad Project MARCH and Children First/CIS is there for them and credit unions are able to help.”

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded a $15,000 Micro Community Grant to Hope for the Warriors on Thursday, December 4^th during the Southeast Chapter of Credit Unions Meeting at Mike’s Farm in Beulaville, NC. The funds will be allocated to the Warrior’s Wish Program to fulfill grant wishes to severely injured service members in an effort to restore hope in the eyes of a hero and to have experiences above and beyond their immediate needs.

Hope for the Warriors enhances the quality of life for US Service Members and their families nationwide who have been adversely affected by injuries and death in the line of duty. Hope for the Warriors actively seeks to ensure that the sacrifices of wounded and fallen warriors and their families are never forgotten nor their needs unmet, particularly with regard to the short and long term care of the severely injured.

 “We are so very grateful for the sacrifices our soldiers make to protect our country,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “With so many military members and families located in southeast NC, the sacrifices made by the few to protect the many are keenly felt here. This grant is just a small representation of the deep appreciation credit union staff and members feel for the service, dedication and sacrifice made by these brave men and women.”

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded a $20,000 Micro Community Grant to the Tender Hearts Ministries in York, SC on Tuesday, December 2, 2008. The funds will be used to purchase a fire suppression hood and stove for the residence building and partially fund upgrades to the electrical and HVAC systems.

Tender Hearts Ministries exists to help individuals in need receive food, clothing, shelter, access to local human services agencies, educational opportunities and compassion. Tender Hearts operates a thrift store to provide food and clothing to families in need. They also operate a safe haven for women and children in crisis.

 “Families in crisis need help accessing basic needs like food, clothing, shelter and help getting back on their feet,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “Tender Hearts is a place where caring people help families during this time of need. With the holiday season approaching and the economy struggling there are many families out there in need,” Slack noted “and we are glad to be able to assist Tender Hearts in their mission of providing basic needs, education and compassion as families deal with these situations. The credit union philosophy of giving people a hand up not a hand out is right in sync with Tender Hearts efforts.”

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded a $7,765.00 Micro Community Grant to the Family Shelter, an organization that provides temporary emergency housing and supportive services to homeless families in order to enable them to transition to permanent housing and a stable family life. Family Shelter is the only shelter in the Midlands area exclusively serving families.

Although Family Shelter is one of the least known agencies in Columbia, it has quietly been one of the most effective. Shelter programs have a three-fold purpose to:

1. Provide a secure, structured environment where families can regain a sense of stability and perspective.
2. Respond to identified client needs with a variety of supportive services, which enhance the individual’s employment and housing status, educational level, medical care, and personal growth.
3. Promote healthy, stable, families who are connected to a network of community supporters and opportunities.

“Family Shelter is doing some remarkable work in the Midlands of South Carolina,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “They’re a key agency that homeless families look to for guidance and support as they make the journey from homelessness to independence.”

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded a $7,765.00 Micro Community Grant to Next Step Ministries, a domestic violence shelter for women in Kernersville, on Wednesday, November 5, 2008. Next Step Ministries will use the funds to repair the roof in addition to other improvements to their facilities.

Next Step Ministries provides a place where victims of domestic violence can go for food, shelter, guidance, and safety. To date in 2008, over 80 women have been victims of domestic violence related homicides in NC. There are many more who continue to live in fear for their safety and the safety of their children. Truth of the matter is that no woman should have to live in an environment where she consistently fears for her safety. Neither should she have to fear for the well being of her children.

Next Step Ministries operates a thrift store in Colfax to provide income for operations and much needed items for their residents. “We are very thankful there are kind, caring people out there to help women and children who are trying to escape abusive situations,” Slack noted. He added, “It’s our pleasure to help by providing a safe place for women who are trying to escape domestic violence.” 

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded a $15,000 Micro Community Grant to the Fusion Warehouse in Anderson, SC on Monday, December 1, 2008. The funds were used to construct a skate park to provide positive experiences for young people and a safe place to exercise and socialize.

Located in a former Wal-Mart in Anderson, the Fusion Warehouse is the result of the leadership and commitment of founders Randall and Joy Brown. The Browns created Fusion Warehouse, which is a social meeting place and gang alternative for young people in Anderson. “The Browns are visionaries. Their charismatic leadership with the help of many great people in the community has ushered this wonderful facility into existence,” said CCUF President/CEO John Slack.

The Warehouse is a truly unique gathering place for Anderson young people. The facility includes a pool hall, recording studio, game room, restaurant, two movie theatres, and a laser tag room among many other offerings. “Keeping kids off the streets and giving them a safe, structured place to socialize and learn is a wonderful idea,” says Donna Metz, President of Upstate Federal Credit Union. The Fusion Warehouse also has classrooms where students can get information on financial education, drug prevention and awareness, and anti-gang messages.

The skate park will allow for the young people to be in a positive, safe environment where they are off the streets and able to exercise, learn and socialize. “We are very excited to be back at Fusion Warehouse to help them accomplish their goal of providing young adults with a positive place to socialize and learn. This is such a wonderful resource for the community,” Slack noted, “and since we are part of the community it makes sense for credit unions to be involved.”

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded a $6,000 Micro Community Grant to Homes for Life in Spartanburg on Monday, December 1, 2008. The funds will be used to replace an aging HVAC system in this residence home for young men.

Homes for Life is a residence home providing basic needs and life skills education for homeless young men, ages 16 to 21, in the Upstate area of South Carolina. Research has shown a great need among our young people who leave the custody of the state’s foster care program at age 18 without support or guidance. Often these young people will become involved in risky behaviors which lead to unproductive consequences such as criminal behavior, unemployment and even incarceration all of which have a negative impact our communities.

 “Providing these young men with a transitional residence where they can learn the life skills necessary for them to become productive members of our community is a wonderful endeavor,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “These young men are working hard to learn and become the best they can be,” said Slack adding, “we are just glad Homes for Life is here for them and credit unions are able to help.”

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded $20,000 in Micro Community Grant funding to the Beaufort Marine Institute (BMI) on August 27 at 1:00 pm. The BMI grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Charleston Chapter of Credit Unions.

BMI will use the grant funds to construct a floating classroom and offer the young men the opportunity to receive training and a marketable skill in a range of maritime careers, including welding, carpentry and environmental sciences. “This is a great opportunity for the Foundation and credit unions in South Carolina to step up and help meet the needs of young men who are putting their lives back together,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack.

BMI is a non-profit residential facility that serves as an alternative to prison for juvenile offenders ages 14-17. BMI provides a second chance for young men who would otherwise be sent to jail for their non-violent offenses.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded $15,232 in Micro Community Grant funding to the North Augusta Cultural Arts Council (NACAC) on Tuesday, September 9, 2008 at 11:00 am. The NACAC grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Columbia Chapter of Credit Unions.

NACAC will use the grant funds to build a roof and provide electricity to the stage at Maude Edenfield Park. “This is a great opportunity for the Foundation and credit unions in South Carolina to step up and help a great agency enhance cultural life in North Augusta,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack.

NACAC is a non-profit agency that promotes the cultural arts in the North Augusta community. The organization sponsors and coordinates concerts and events throughout the year, including the Music in the Park Series, an annual Veteran’s Day Concert, as well as plays and performances, art shows and other festivals.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded $10,000 in Micro Community Grant funding to HORSEPOWER, Inc on Thursday, September 4 at 9:00 am. The HORSEPOWER grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the North Piedmont Chapter of Credit Unions.

HORSEPOWER, which also received a Micro Community Grant in 2006, will use the grant funds to renovate its barn. “This is a great opportunity for the Foundation and credit unions to step up and help meet the needs of HORSEPOWER’s clients,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack.

HORSEPOWER's mission is to promote and enhance the welfare of individuals with disabilities by providing a program of therapeutic, educational and recreational value, and further, to empower individuals who are mentally, physically, emotionally and/or socially challenged through the use of horses, while providing therapeutic benefits in a safe and controlled atmosphere.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) awarded $18,000 in Micro Community Grant funding to the Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital in Columbia. A grant presentation was held Thursday, August 28, 2008 at 10:00 am on the Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital campus. The hospital grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Columbia Chapter of Credit Unions.

Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital is the first free-standing children’s hospital in SC. The hospital, which serves all 46 SC counties, serves some 82,000 infants, children and adolescents each year in its inpatient and outpatient specialty clinics. 

The CARE House of Florence Receives Credit Union Foundation Grant

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) is pleased to announce it is awarding nearly $15,000 in Micro Community Grant funding to the Child Abuse Resource & Evaluation (CARE) House of Florence.  The funds will be used to purchase medical and other equipment in order for the agency to better serve their young clients.

The CARE House is a child advocacy center that provides direct services (physical exams, forensic reviews, counseling, multidisciplinary team decision making and follow up referrals) for maltreated children and their families. Since opening in 2006, the CARE House has assessed more than 1,000 children in Florence County who have been physically or sexually abused.

The grant funds will be used to purchase medical equipment for the examination room, plus computer equipment in order to help CARE House better assess the children being served by the agency. “CARE House is doing some exceptional work with some kids who really need someone who cares about them,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. 

Girl Scouts of Eastern SC Receives Credit Union Foundation Grant

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) is pleased to announce it is awarding a $10,200 Micro Community Grant to The Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina.  The funds will be used to purchase two docks and other water equipment for the Sandy Ridge Camp located in Bennettsville.

The Girl Scouts of Eastern SC, which serves 21 Low Country counties, is dedicated to helping girls build character and skills for success in the real world in an accepting and nurturing environment. In partnership with committed adults, girls develop qualities that will serve them all their lives-like strong values, a social conscience, and conviction about their own potential and self-worth.

The grant funds will be used to replace two docks that have deteriorated at the Sandy Ridge Camp. These docks allow the girls to participate in fun water activities such as canoeing and fishing. “The foundation grant is also funding the purchase of two kayaks, two paddle boats and 24 personal floatation devices,” said CCUF President/CEO John Slack.

Family Care Center of Catawba County Receives Credit Union Foundation Grant

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) is pleased to announce it is awarding a $9,605 Micro Community Grant to Family Care Center of Catawba County. The funds will be used to purchase security and other types of equipment for the housing and administrative units of the facility.

Founded in 1988, Family Care Center serves homeless families with dependent children through an emergency and transitional residential program. The agency offers physical, emotional, social and educational services to assist families in the transition to becoming self-sufficient. The Center ministers to all persons without discrimination.

“Family Care Center is doing some remarkable work in Catawba County,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “They’re a key agency that homeless families in Catawba County look to for guidance and support as they make the journey from homelessness to independence.” 

The Family Care Center is currently involved in a $600,000 capital campaign to build a new administrative facility and open additional housing units. The grant funds will be used to purchase surveillance equipment in order to maintain security at the housing units, as well as equipment that will be used in education programs … including important financial education programs for the center’s clients.

Boys & Girls Homes Receives Credit Union Foundation Grant

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) is pleased to announce it is awarding a $18,000 Micro Community Grant to The Boys & Girls Homes of North Carolina, Inc. in Lake Waccamaw.  The funds will be used to renovate and expand the portion of the Lang Center that houses the Family Foster Care and Adoption Program.

The mission of the Boys & Girls Homes of North Carolina’s is to provide residential and foster care/adoption programs for neglected, abused and hurting children that emphasize academic and Christian education to address their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs in a homelike, Christian setting.

The children placed in the Family Foster Care Program range in age from birth to twenty-one. By expanding to Family Foster Care, Boys and Girls Homes serves a population of children who need a less restrictive out-of-home placement than residential care.

The grant funds will be used to renovate the downstairs portion of the Lang Center to include a play area for the children, a counseling room, a small kitchen area, a lobby and some small offices. The funds will also be used to renovate the heating system. “It is our privilege to help the Family Foster Care program as it provides vital help to kids and foster families who are facing some difficult times,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. 

Children’s Attention Home

The Children’s Attention Home consists of three residence facilities and a new administration building. There is a boy’s dormitory, girl’s dormitory and a long-term foster facility which houses children who have not been reclaimed by parents or family members. The facilities are staffed at all times.

“Like many foster care facilities we have helped, the Children’s Attention Home struggles with providing clothing for the children,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. “Some of these kids arrive in the middle of the night with little more than the clothes on their backs. These grant funds will help the home’s newest residents have a smoother transition,” Slack added. Despite a limited budget, the Children’s Attention Home staff takes the children shopping for basic necessities as soon as possible after they arrive.

The Rock Hill agency originally requested $10,000 for clothing, which was approved. In addition, the CCUF allocated an additional $3,000 for the home to purchase duffle bags and pajamasfor the children.

Credit Union Representatives from Sharonview FCU, Founders FCU, Family Trust FCU and 1^st

Patriots FCU present the Micro Community Grant check to Libby Sweatt-Lambert, Executive

Director of Children’s Attention Home in Rock Hill, SC.

Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry

The Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry was recently awarded a grant from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation. A check in the amount of $10,000 was presented at CCM on Wednesday, Feb. 27. Among those present were N.C. State Rep. Mark Hilton and Hickory Mayor Rudy Wright.

The money will be used by CCM to purchase donor database software and a digital security system.

“We are extremely pleased to be receiving funding from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation,” said Roger D. Baker, Ed.D., CCM Executive Director, “We are pleased the foundation saw our need and approved our request for funding. The security system will allow CCM staff to manage loss prevention and client safety by providing state-of-the-art cameras inside and outside the ministry.”

“The donor database software will greatly enhance our ability to manage its financial resources as we seek critical support from area businesses, individuals and foundations,” said Kim Gilliland, CCM’s Director of Development and Public Relations. “As we are in the midst of a three-year endowment campaign, the ability to obtain this critical software package couldn’t have come at a better time.”

Greenville’s Homes of Hope Receives $15,500 Credit Union Foundation Grant

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) is pleased to announce it is awarding a $15,500 Micro Community Grant to Homes of Hope in Greenville, South Carolina. The funds will be used to refurbish two modular homes, as well as provide partial funding for a planned Spring Information Fair.

Founded in 1998, Homes of Hope provides safe, affordable housing for homeless and lower-income families and individuals, while also providing job skill training and mentoring for men overcoming drug and alcohol addiction. Since it was founded, Homes of Hope has built or developed 228 homes, and provided job training and mentoring for 171 men. 

“Homes of Hope is doing terrific work in Greenville County,” noted CCUF President/CEO John Slack. He added that credit unions in Greenville County had been very supportive of the agency in the past. “Credit unions care about the communities in which they operate, and the Foundation is pleased to further their commitment to Homes of Hope through this grant.”

The grant funds will be used to help refurbish two modular homes to be used in transitional housing in the agency’s Samaritan Village. Interns in the Overcomers Program will complete the refurbishment of these homes. The funds will also help to underwrite a Spring Information Fair, which will provide educational sessions on topics such as budgeting, credit repair, preparing for a mortgage, healthy meal preparation, and creating a neighborhood watch.   

Micro Community Grants allow credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina to partner with local non profit agencies to bring community benefit. The Homes of Hope grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Piedmont Chapter of Credit Unions and Community 1 Federal Credit Union. Community1 is also providing volunteers for the Spring Information Fair. “They’ve been very involved with Homes of Hope over the years,” said Slack. “They believe in the mission and work of this wonderful agency.”

Channel 4 News in Greenville, SC watches as Rick Leonardi, CEO of Community 1 FCU presents Don Oglesby, Executive Director of Homes of Hope, with the Micro Community Grant Check. Alan Berry, Piedmont Chapter President and CEO of Greenville Heritage FCU was also in attendance.

The Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry was recently awarded a grant from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation. A check in the amount of $10,000 was presented at CCM on Wednesday, Feb. 27. Among those present were N.C. State Rep. Mark Hilton and Hickory Mayor Rudy Wright.

The foundation’s Micro Community Grant program allows credit unions in North and South Carolina to partner with local nonprofit agencies. The grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Foothills Chapter of the N.C. Credit Union League.Since the program began in late 2005, more than $400,000 has been awarded to agencies throughout the Carolinas.

“Credit unions care about the communities in which they operate,” said CCUF Board Member John Radebaugh. “The Cooperative Christian Ministry reminds us that communities are really about people.”

The money will be used by CCM to purchase donor database software and a digital security system.

“We are extremely pleased to be receiving funding from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation,” said Roger D. Baker, Ed.D., CCM Executive Director, “We are pleased the foundation saw our need and approved our request for funding. The security system will allow CCM staff to manage loss prevention and client safety by providing state-of-the-art cameras inside and outside the ministry.”

“The donor database software will greatly enhance our ability to manage its financial resources as we seek critical support from area businesses, individuals and foundations,” said Kim Gilliland, CCM’s Director of Development and Public Relations. “As we are in the midst of a three-year endowment campaign, the ability to obtain this critical software package couldn’t have come at a better time.”

Grant to construct a children’s area that will provide positive experiences to young people and a safe place for parents to leave their children while they volunteer or even pursue their high school graduate equivalency degrees (GEDs)

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded a $20,000 Micro Community Grant to the Fusion Warehouse in Anderson, SC. The funds will be used to construct a children’s area that will provide positive experiences to young people and a safe place for parents to leave their children while they volunteer or even pursue their high school graduate equivalency degrees (GEDs).

Located in a former Wal Mart in Anderson, the Fusion Warehouse is the result of the visionary leadership and commitment of founders Randall and Joy Brown. The Browns created Fusion Warehouse, which is a social meeting place and gang alternative for young people in Anderson. “The Browns are visionaries. Their charismatic leadership with the help of many great people in the community has ushered this wonderful facility into existence,” said CCUF Executive Director John Slack.

The Warehouse is a truly unique gathering place for Anderson young people. The facility includes a pool hall, recording studio, game room, restaurant, two movie theatres, and a laser tag room among many other offerings. “Keeping kids off the streets and giving them a safe, structured place to socialize and learn is a wonderful idea,” says Donna Metz, President of Upstate Federal Credit Union. The Fusion Warehouse also has classrooms where students can get information on financial education, drug prevention and awareness, and anti-gang messages.

The children’s area will allow for the very young to be in a positive, safe environment while their parents volunteer or study at the GED classes offered at Fusion. “This is such a wonderful resource for the community,” Slack noted, “since we are part of the community it makes sense for credit unions to be involved.”

Micro Community Grants allow credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina to partner with local non profit agencies to bring community benefit. The Fusion Warehouse grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Anderson County Credit Unions including Anderson FCU, AnMed FCU, Anderson Educators FCU, Anderson City EFCU and Upstate FCU as well as the Piedmont Chapter of the South Carolina Credit Union League. Slack noted that local credit unions have been involved with Fusion Warehouse in the past, including a donation by Upstate Federal Credit Union that partially funded the construction of the laser tag room.

Grant to purchase furniture and other needed equipment to furnish the facility

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded an $11,500 Micro Community Grant to Serenity Chapel in Newberry. Serenity Chapel will use the funds to purchase furniture and other needed equipment to furnish the facility.  

Serenity Chapel is a non-denominational facility open for hosting meetings and functions for recovery groups and small civic organizations. Serenity Chapel came into being through the efforts of George Burk, a retired US Army sergeant major. “George Burk has invested a lot of effort and sweat equity to create Serenity Chapel,” noted CCUF Executive Director John Slack, who toured the facility. “Inspired by his vision, many others in Newberry have joined in to bring the Chapel to life. On behalf of credit unions in the Carolinas, it’s the Foundation’s pleasure to assist the community in this effort.”

The Serenity Chapel building has been renovated, but the agency is in need of new furniture and other equipment to make the surroundings comfortable for the people and groups who utilize it. The grant will provide the necessary funds to purchase this equipment. 

Grant to purchase a variety of needed equipment to serve the more than 400 children with various disabilities

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded a $20,000 Micro Community Grant to the Allegro Foundation in Charlotte. The funds will be used by Allegro to purchase a variety of needed equipment in order for the agency to serve the more than 400 children who rely on the Foundation each week.

The Allegro Foundation serves children with a wide range of medical and cognitive issues, including Down Syndrome, orthopedic challenges, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, learning disabilities, visual & hearing impairments, as well as at-risk children and children with cancer. They combine cognitive and muscle memory exercises designed to stimulate learning, problem solving skills & communication, increased physical coordination as well as producing emotional and physiological changes in the body.

Each week Allegro serves more than 400 children in Mecklenburg County. During these classes the instructors and nearly 600 volunteers rely heavily on music, props and costumes to reinforce the learning process and improve the fine & gross motor skills. The CCUF grant will provide funds for sewing equipment, costume maintenance equipment, music, props, educational materials and a specialized ramp to assist with getting the children to the performance venues.

Micro Community Grants allow credit unions in North and South Carolina to partner with local non profit agencies to bring community benefit. The Allegro Foundation proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Piedmont Chapter of the NC Credit Union League. “The Piedmont Chapter has enthusiastically supported the Allegro Foundation for a number of years, providing both volunteer and monetary support,” Slack noted. “It’s our pleasure to assist this wonderful agency as it continues working miracles in the lives of Charlotte-area kids.”

Grant will complete ADA compliant residence room for domestic abuse victims

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded a $12,000 Micro Community Grant to Mary’s House, a domestic violence shelter for women in Pickens. Mary’s House, which is currently under construction, will use the funds to outfit a room for use by women who are physically disabled.

CCUF Executive Director John Slack spoke with representatives of Mary’s House, who took him on a tour of the planned facility. Mary’s House employees and board members noted that South Carolina consistently ranks in the top 10 states for domestic abuse and Pickens ranks very high in the State’s county rankings.

Statistics point out that the chances of being a victim of domestic violence increase when a woman becomes disabled. The Foundation will fund the construction of a room which complies with the standards set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act. A small portion of the grant funds will also be used to furnish an entertainment room for children staying at the shelter.   

Foundation grant to provide duffle bags and basic essentials for foster children

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded a $10,000 Micro Community Grant to Fostering Hope in Conway. The funds will be used to purchase duffle bags and personal items for the foster children who utilize Fostering Hope’s services. .

Fostering Hope receives donated slightly used clothing, basic essentials and provides a store front for foster kids to come shop just like other kids. The store is set up like a retail operation without the cash register in front. The operation is available to foster families in Horry County and the items are provided free of charge.

“Fostering Hope provides an outstanding service to children and teens in Horry County who are encountering very difficult times,” said CCUF Executive Director John Slack, who recently toured the Fostering Hope store with its Executive Director, Tabby Shelton. “These personal effects and duffle bags represent a small but important part of the transition foster children make, and we are grateful to be in a position to help.”

Shelton related to Slack that some kids would show up at Fostering Hope with their personal effects in trash bags, if they had any personal effects at all. “These kids have experienced things that no child should have to endure,” said Slack, “and it’s empowering to them to have a duffle bag to store their clothing and other items.”

Foundation Grant to Provide School Supplies for at-risk youth in Winston Salem

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded a $5,000 Micro Community Grant to the Winston Salem Street School in Winston Salem. The funds will be used to provide school supplies including science lab equipment, art supplies and computers.

The Winston Salem Street School provides a highly interactive learning environment to help at-risk youth in Winston Salem get a quality education with a moral code and tools for self-sufficiency.

“The dropout rate around the nation and Forsyth County specifically is alarming,” said CCUF Executive Director John Slack. “David Morgan and his staff at the Winston Salem Street School are dedicated to giving these kids every opportunity to get a thorough education, which is a cornerstone for success.”

Micro Community Grants allow credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina to partner with local non profit agencies to bring community benefit. The Winston Salem Street School proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the Northwest Chapter of the NC Credit Union League.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded a $10,000 Micro Community Grant to the Alamance County Community Services Agency (ACCSA) in Burlington. The funds will be used for the agency’s Hope in Housing program.

The ACCSA’s mission is to move people from poverty to economic self sufficiency and improve the quality of life of people in need through the provision of informational, technical and support services. The Hope in Housing program moves people from poverty to self sufficiency through financial counseling, education and planning.

The ultimate goal for many of the Hope in Housing participants is to become a homeowner. Along the way many are counseled on how to develop and execute long term financial plans which may include formal education, skills training, growing savings/investments, or even starting a business.

“Hope in Housing is a perfect example of the credit union philosophy of ‘people helping people,’” remarked CCUF Executive Director John Slack. “It is the Foundation’s pleasure to support a program that helps hard-working people of modest means learn financial principles that unlock the door to self-sufficiency and success.”

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) is pleased to announce it has awarded the Free Clinic of Reidsville & Rockingham County a Micro Community Grant. The grant funds will be used to upgrade the clinic’s phone system, and renovate and refurbish the clinic’s dental equipment.

The Free Clinic of Reidsville & Rockingham County is a free medical, dental clinic and pharmacy addressing the critical dental and healthcare needs of low-income, uninsured residents of Rockingham County. “The clinic provides a wonderful service to residents of Rockingham County who do not have medical insurance and may otherwise do without care,” said CCUF Executive Director John Slack.

The clinic’s phone message “system” is currently a $30 off-the-shelf answering machine. The Foundation grant will provide funds for the clinic to upgrade to a modern voicemail system. “This new system will allow the clinic to provide more effective and efficient service to its clients,” remarked Slack.
 
The Foundation also agreed to provide funds for the clinic to refurbish and renovate its dental equipment. These funds will help the clinic meet the high demand for dental services.     

Micro Community Grants allow credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina to partner with local non profit agencies to bring community benefit. The clinic grant proposal was put together with the help and cooperation of the North Piedmont Chapter of the NC Credit Union League. Dorinda Edwards and Stephanie Wilson of American Partners FCU were instrumental in working with the clinic to secure the Foundation grant. “Dorinda and Stephanie both volunteer at the clinic, along with other American Partners employees,” Slack noted “so they see firsthand the terrific job the clinic does.”

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded a Micro Community Grant to the Helping Hands Clinic in Lenoir. The funds will be used to purchase a new phone system, and to help upgrade the computer system in clinic’s pharmacy.

The Helping Hands Clinic is a free medical clinic and pharmacy addressing the critical healthcare needs of low-income, uninsured residents of Caldwell County. This organization is founded on the belief that inability to pay should not prevent people from receiving quality healthcare.

The grant includes funds to upgrade the phone system in the clinic. “This will allow each staff member to have voicemail accounts, and help the clinic serve its patients much more efficiently,” said CCUF Executive Director John Slack.

The Foundation provided additional funds to help fund a new computer system in the clinic’s pharmacy. The updated computer system in the pharmacy will allow for expanded access to allow patients to refill their prescriptions anytime. It will also allow for a better system of tracking inventory and laser-generated labels. The CCUF is committing 60% of the funds needed to upgrade the pharmacy computer system, with the remainder of the funding to be provided by Caldwell County funding agencies.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded a $12,000 Micro Community Grant to the Recovering Sight Foundation in Sumter. The funds will be used to provide computer equipment and training that will assist eight Sumter-area blind people.

The Recovering Sight Foundation purchases a computer and specialized software for each blind student accepted, teaches them how to operate the computer/software, and provides them the computer/software at no charge. Recovering Sight is an all-volunteer organization.

“During the grant process, I had the great privilege of meeting Mr. Neil Towery of Recovering Sight,” said CCUF Executive Director John Slack. “Mr. Towery, who is himself blind, truly inspires with his commitment to helping restore independence, dignity and confidence in sight impaired people by opening up a new and exciting avenue for interacting with the world.”

Towery, who progressively lost his own sight over a 30 year period, provides computer equipment, software and training to blind people in the Sumter area. As a result of Towery’s efforts, blind people are able to “read” the newspaper daily, communicate with friends and family via email, compose letters and write papers.

The computer equipment and training costs $1,500 per person. The grant total of will allow eight people to receive the computer equipment and training.

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation (CCUF) announced today it has awarded a Micro Community Grant to the Timmonsville Boys & Girls Club in Florence County. The funds will be used to assist the fledgling agency in building a teen center.

The Timmonsville Boys & Girls Club is dedicated to providing structured activities for the youth in Timmonsville, SC. This organization is in its infancy and is receiving support from the Florence Boys & Girls Club. Timmonsville, like many small communities in SC, has been hit hard by job losses in the past several years.

“The Foundation is pleased to assist this agency in providing structured activities for young people,” said CCUF Executive Director John Slack. “Job losses and the lack of opportunity hit communities hard, and agencies like the Boys & Girls Club can often provide the kind of support that kids in these kind of situations need.”

The grant funds will come in two stages. The Foundation will provide funds to renovate a room in the old school building that is home to the club. After the renovation is complete and other improvements to the facility are made, the Foundation will provide additional funds to purchase equipment and items to stock the teen center.