The spirit of the season made Christmas a little brighter for one of their clients in time for the holidays.
The local branch joined Chinook Financial across the province and reached out to members to help pay their utilities, taxes, medical bills, rent, mortgages, and loan payments to alleviate financial stresses in the run-up to the holiday season.
It was a powerful experience for staff at the local Chinook Financial.
“We gave just under $4,000 to one of our members,” said Andrea Sprunger, member service representative from Drumheller. “One of our missions is to make money make a difference so we worked with the team across Southern Alberta to offer a big hand-up to our members who have been faced with hardship or illness, unexpected unemployment or other challenges this year, so we wanted to give back in a way that relieved some stress for these individuals.”
The Credit Union released a video on Youtube and it is getting many shares
She says it was powerful because of the relationship they have built with their clients.
“We really get to know our members and we tossed out some names, and speaking to members on a daily basis, they were very willing to share their very personal details,” said Sprunger. “We chatted amongst our branch and agreed on one individual that we thought we could have a big impact on ”
The staff went to the person’s place of work and surprised them with the gift.
“I still get emotional now, it’s huge,” she said.
“I am really proud to work for a place where they do try to instill a deep culture of giving and giving back to our community. We are in a position to lend a hand to members when they need it the most.”
She encourages others to share this season.
“We just want everyone to find their own unique way to do something unexpected and kind for another person this season because you never know what one small act of kindness can do for someone,” said Sprunger.
