The mission of the Grow Financial Foundation is to encourage and support the health and wellness of individuals and organizations within the communities the credit union serves through financial, educational, social, physical and mental health strategies. In a year where we all continued to feel the effects of a global pandemic, the Foundation worked behind the scenes supporting our West Central Florida and South Carolina communities. Here’s a look at the Grow Financial Foundation 2021 recap, along with exciting news for 2022.

Grow Financial Foundation 2021 recap

Last year, the Grow Financial Foundation operated with the theme “Kindness is Courageous,” reminding us of the importance of kindness in service to others. The work of the Foundation included a variety of organizations and causes, like American Lung Association, Lowcountry Orphan Relief, Healthy Start Coalition of Pinellas and dozens of others, along with relief efforts for Haiti, Afghanistan, Kentucky and more. The Foundation also continued its support for youth education through the EVERFI National Financial Literacy Bee and assisted our veterans in a joint effort with Friends of US Military Families, Inc. and Habitat for Humanity. In total, the Foundation helped more than 40 incredible organizations and donated $60,250 in 2021.

​​​​All these efforts were made possible through the help and time of our team members. Khenh Vong, Chair of the Board of Directors for the Grow Financial Foundation, said, “The Foundation wants to thank all our team members for helping us do so much good in 2021. We are so grateful for the tremendous generosity and kindness you’ve shown throughout the year, donating to our various collection efforts and demonstrating your selflessness through community service.”

2022: New Board members and new theme

The Grow Financial Foundation is excited to welcome two new board members, Antione Frederick, Market Manager, and Eric Vanderham, AVP Regional Executive of Branch Operations. Both Antione and Eric are very involved in their communities and passionate about serving others. Antione serves on the Kiwanis Club of Columbia’s executive board, the Lexington County Chamber of Commerce and the leadership of the Lexington County Group, as well as Grow’s Youth and Schools Committee. Eric has served on the executive board of the Hernando County Young Professionals, the Hernando County Chamber and Hernando County Habitat for Humanity, and he currently serves on the board for Hernando County United Way. They both look forward to joining the Grow Financial Foundation to further impact their communities.

Exciting things are on the horizon for this year! As the Foundation looks forward to continuing their efforts of service, they’ve introduced a new theme: “Grow Your Heart. Be Curious. Be Kind.” In a time of increased division in our communities, this theme reminds us to build bridges and go beyond our comfort zone in service to others. We’re encouraged to explore new areas where we can help our communities while maintaining kindness in everything we do.
We look forward to seeing what the Grow Financial Foundation will achieve in 2022!

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