Living Generously During National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate the incredible impact of volunteer service in our communities. Established in 1974, this special week held every April brings together crewmembers from all over the credit union to donate their time and talents. It’s an opportunity to multiply our impact in the communities where we live and work.

From April 21 - 26, our CommUNITY Crew volunteers came together to support incredible nonprofits making an impact in our communities. Combating homelessness, supporting youth and families, uplifting senior citizens, and addressing food insecurity were some of the ways crewmembers donated their time and talents.

“National Volunteer Week has highlighted the incredible impact of volunteer service in our communities,” said FAIRWINDS Community Relations Manager Adrian Kierulf-Velez. “The impact of our CommUNITY Crew’s efforts is a testament to the power of collective action and the difference we can make when we come together to serve others.”

Hers is a snapshot of our CommUNITY Crew in action during National Volunteer Week:

Samaritan Resource Center

We kicked off National Volunteer Week by teaming up with Samaritan Resource Center. Their mission is to bring hope and dignity to individuals experiencing homelessness through support, resources, and compassion. Our team restocked the food pantry, served meals, and organized clothing to help individuals look and feel their best.

Ronald McDonald House Central Florida

We served as Baking Buddies at Ronald McDonald House Central Florida, whipping up tasty treats for families staying at the house. Ronald McDonald House’s mission is to improve the health and well-being for families with sick children by offering a “home away from home” during medical treatments.

For FAIRWINDS crewmember Christine Langan, this opportunity was beyond baking. “My close friend’s daughter was born premature, and Ronald McDonald House provided her family with a convenient place to stay,” said Christine. With her friend’s daughter now thriving, “I wanted to help in a small way to give back like they gave to her.”

Give Kids The World Village

Breakfast was served at Give Kids The World Village! The 89-acre whimsical, nonprofit resort provides weeklong, cost-free vacation to children with critical illnesses and their families from around the world. CommUNITY Crew served breakfast to Wish Kids and families, creating a warm and welcoming start to their day.

Meals on Wheels

It was a Friday full of bingo, karaoke, and lunch! Through Meals on Wheels, Etc., we were able to deliver on their mission to provide nutritious meals and companionship to seniors in need, helping them live independently and with dignity.

Harbor House of Central Florida

We wrapped up National Volunteer Week at the Harbor House of Central Florida’s Paws for Peace Walk and Run. This annual event raises vital funds to support domestic violence survivors and their pets. As one of the few shelters in Florida that accepts animals, Harbor House’s Paws for Peace kennel has provided refuge for hundreds of animals, keeping families together and safe.

“It’s a joy to have the opportunity to be able to volunteer,” said longtime FAIRWINDS crewmember, Melinda Jimenez. “Knowing what an impact a few hours of my time can make such a difference in someone’s life. Volunteering is so important and meaningful to me, and I am grateful to know I can help others in my community.”

Living Generously Year-Round

While April is a time to shine a spotlight on volunteering, crewmembers live and generously all year.

Through the CommUNITY Crew volunteer program, every FAIRWINDS crewmember is provided up to eight hours of paid time off annually to volunteer. Crewmembers can choose from a wide range of volunteer opportunities, including FAIRWINDS-sponsored events or causes they are passionate about.

In 2024, crewmembers volunteered more than 750 hours. With the efforts from our CommUNITY Crew during National Volunteer Week alone, we are well on our way to surpassing that number this year.

“Our communities are stronger when we work together,” said Adrian. “Each hour contributed, each hand extended, and each act of kindness weaves a deeper connection between us, proving that real change begins when we show up for one another.”