SECU's Kindness Month Aims to Inspire Generosity
SECU, Maryland's largest state-chartered credit union, is excited to announce its fifth annual Kindness Campaign this October. With a strong commitment to spreading kindness throughout the community, SECU aims for a remarkable goal of inspiring 500,000 acts of kindness within a single month. This initiative will be tracked through their innovative Kindness Tracker, which encourages participation from both members and community partners.
Proclamation of Kindness Month
In a significant move, SECU has partnered with the Moore-Miller Administration for the second consecutive year to declare October as Kindness Month. This year, the programming is designed with a focus on financial education and overall wellness. As a cornerstone to the campaign, SECU has planned various activities aimed at fostering awareness and participation from all community members.
Essentials Drive Launch
The Kindness Campaign will kick off with an Essentials Drive that will benefit educational institutions across Maryland. This initiative directly addresses the issue of food insecurity among students, which has been found to adversely affect graduation rates. Participating institutions include notable universities such as Frostburg State University, the Universities at Shady Grove, Towson University, Morgan State University, and the University of Maryland. With this drive, SECU encourages donations of non-perishable food, toiletries, and other essential items, creating a direct way to make a positive impact.
Grand Act of Kindness
Among the many activities planned, SECU will conduct a Grand Act of Kindness on October 14, where they aim to distribute essential items to campus pantries across the partnered universities. The ambitious target is to collect and distribute a total of 18,000 pounds of donations. SECU employees will actively participate in this event, assisting in organizing and disseminating resources to facilitate support for students in need.
Engaging Employees in Kindness Initiatives
Alongside the Grand Act of Kindness, SECU encourages its employees to participate in a company-wide Day of Kindness. On this day, more than 350 employees will volunteer their time across various initiatives. With a selection of over 31 activities in collaboration with 16 different nonprofits, the Day of Kindness amplifies SECU's commitment to the community while fostering a spirit of togetherness among employees.
Inspiring Kindness in Young Hearts
This year, SECU is introducing Kindness Passports for local grade school students. The passports encourage children to engage in acts of kindness, reinforcing the importance of community and empathy from an early age. Activities can range from simple gestures, such as holding doors open for others, to more substantial acts of assistance. Upon completion, students can redeem their Kindness Passports at any local SECU center for a small reward.
Community Engagement Beyond October
In addition to the events taking place during October, SECU will organize community volunteer days throughout the month. These efforts will allow individuals and groups to highlight their commitment to kindness by working alongside organizations like the Maryland Food Bank and Morgan State University.
A Call to Action for Kindness
SECU's commitment to kindness not only reflects its core values as a credit union but also inspires others to participate. The desire to see communities engage in goodwill fosters a culture of philanthropy and support throughout Maryland. Becky Smith, SECU's Executive Vice President, emphasizes that each small act contributes to a larger goal, highlighting that kindness is essential to creating a thriving community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of SECU's Kindness Campaign?
The goal is to inspire 500,000 acts of kindness throughout October, promoting community engagement and support.
How can individuals contribute to the Essentials Drive?
Individuals can donate non-perishable food and hygiene products, with each item representing an act of kindness.
What is the Grand Act of Kindness?
On October 14, SECU will distribute essential items to campus pantries at partnered universities to support students in need.
What activities are included in the Day of Kindness?
Employees will partake in various volunteering activities across multiple nonprofits and community organizations.
How can children participate in the Kindness Month activities?
Children can obtain Kindness Passports and complete small acts of kindness to redeem them for prizes at SECU locations.
