Outstanding Corporation
By Renarda A. Williams | Photography by Rett Peek
For decades, Arkansas Federal Credit Union has played a pivotal role in communities through volunteerism, employee engagement, sponsorships and donations. Their contributions have exceeded $2.5 million to local charities.
Through its Charity of Choice Program, AFCU supports seven primary organizations: the American Heart Association, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Alzheimer’s Arkansas, CARTI, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Arkansas and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute. This year, the credit union forecasts nearly $30,000 through employee payroll deductions in support of these organizations – not including fundraisers, member donations or corporate sponsorships.
Every executive at AFCU fulfills civic leadership responsibilities, serving on a board of directors or related committees. It’s simply a part of company culture. “Credit unions started as an altruistic endeavor that solved a financial problem for people who were not served by traditional credit resources while at the same time supporting growth, investment and opportunities for communities,” notes President & CEO Rodney Showmar. “It’s a natural extension for us to continue that community-focused effort in the form of philanthropy and volunteerism.”
The credit union selected the primary organizations with consideration and focus on health-related issues representing five of the top seven leading causes of death in America. This enables AFCU to have the greatest impact, helping bring treatments and, it’s hoped, cures for these issues. “It benefits our employees, our customers, and everyone in our communities, the state and the world,” explains Rodney. “It’s a win-win.”
