In this week’s New York Minute, we’re bringing you all the latest on individual highlights, national recognitions, and charitable giving. Read all the updates on New York’s credit unions in our New York Minute blog.
Staff Spotlight: Get to Know Ed Kovalefsky
Meet Ed Kovalefsky, the Chief Financial Officer for the Association. Ed’s 30-year journey with the Association is a testament to his passion for the credit union movement.
Returning to us after a brief retirement, Ed’s story reflects not just his financial acumen but also his deep appreciation for the supportive and friendly nature of our Association and the credit union industry at large.
Join us in celebrating Ed’s significant contributions and his valued presence in our credit union community and check out his spotlight video below!
Celebrating Marie Betti’s 45 years at Western New York FCU
The Association congratulates Marie Betti, a long-time member of our Board of Directors, as she celebrates 45 years of service at Western New York FCU. Starting her journey in 1979 as a Clerk/Teller, Marie swiftly ascended the ranks and eventually became CEO and Treasurer.
Reflecting on her tenure, Marie states, “Working at Western New York FCU for the past 45 years has been a profound blessing. I’ve had the privilege to grow alongside this credit union, continuously learning and tackling challenges head-on.”
Her journey exemplifies a lifelong commitment to the credit union ethos of people helping people. Marie’s contributions have not only shaped Western New York FCU but have also enriched the broader New York State credit union community. Join us in honoring Marie Betti’s 45 years of service, leadership, and dedication to the credit union movement.
Read Western New York FCU’s statement below!
Call for Donations: Contribute to the Foundation’s Silent Auction at EXCEL 24
Calling all credit union professionals! Here’s your opportunity to support the New York Credit Union Foundation (NYCUF) during the Association’s annual conference, EXCEL 24. We’re asking for donations for this year’s silent auction. This event is a highlight every year, celebrated for its sought-after items and the friendly rivalry created through bidding for them.
Donations typically range from vacation getaways, event tickets, and dining experiences, to the latest in home technology, sports memorabilia, jewelry, and gift baskets. If direct item donation isn’t feasible, we accept monetary donations to contribute towards items purchased by the Association on your behalf.
To submit an item or monetary donation, please click below and make sure to include an image of your item to include on the auction site. For any additional information, please reach out to Kim Cartonia at kim.cartonia@nycua.org or member.relations@nycua.org.
Your generosity not only enriches the auction but directly supports the vital work of the New York Credit Union Foundation.
AmeriCU Credit Union Wins Diamond Award From America’s Credit Unions
AmeriCU Credit Union was recently honored with a Diamond Award from America’s Credit Unions Marketing & Business Development Council. This award is a recognition of their collaborative effort in co-hosting the Tunnel to Towers 9/11 NEVER FORGET Mobile Exhibit.
The exhibit, which made its first-ever appearance in Central New York at Griffiss Technology Park, provided an invaluable educational experience about September 11, featuring World Trade Center artifacts and stories from New York City Firefighters who were at Ground Zero.
This award places AmeriCU among the elite in the credit union industry. With over 1,000 entries, AmeriCU’s achievement is a testament to their excellence in marketing and community engagement. The Diamond Award showcases AmeriCU’s ongoing dedication to creating a meaningful impact.
Join us in celebrating AmeriCU’s accomplishment and their continued efforts! For a full list of Diamond Award winners, click below.
Giving Roundup: Credit Unions Supporting Their Communities
Recently, credit unions statewide have been supporting their communities and showcasing the spirit of the credit union movement. Notably, Reliant Credit Union, The Summit Federal Credit Union, and SeaComm Federal Credit Union have made strides that highlight credit union’s deep-rooted commitment to uplifting communities.
Reliant Credit Union recently made a generous donation of $5,000 to Inclusion in Motion to maintain the Motion Junction Inclusive Playground in Canandaigua. This initiative represents Reliant’s dedication to fostering inclusive environments for children of all abilities. Pamela Heald, President & CEO of Reliant, emphasized the credit union’s belief in building community spaces that welcome everyone as she stated, “We believe in the power of community and are proud to contribute to a project that fosters unity, acceptance, and joy for all.”
Through sponsorship of the Rochester Wine and Chocolate Festival, The Summit Federal Credit Union raised $3,000 for the local chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace. This organization is renowned for providing beds to children lacking comfortable sleeping arrangements, having already crafted nearly 900 beds for local children. The Summit’s initiative showcases their commitment to children’s well-being and supporting meaningful local causes.
SeaComm Federal Credit Union recently extended its support with a $5,000 donation to Hospice of Jefferson County. This contribution aids the organization’s mission to provide compassionate care to enhance the quality of life for individuals facing advanced illness and grief. Over its operational years, Hospice of Jefferson County has served more than 5,000 patients, a mission now further supported by SeaComm FCU’s generous donation.
These acts of generosity underscore the deep-rooted culture of giving within New York credit unions. Through their contributions, these institutions not only support specific local causes but also inspire a spirit of giving and cooperation across the credit union movement.
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