In February members and employees of Genisys Credit Union moved their feet to give others heat in the annual Walk for Warmth put on by OLHSA, Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency, a community action agency. From this effort, Genisys Credit Union was able to raise $37,345, which was raised throughout 2018, to donate to OLHSA for Walk for Warmth.

“We are amazed by the continued support of our members and employees that help us raise funds each year to support Walk for Warmth,” said Jackie Buchanan President / CEO of Genisys, “With that, we are also thrilled to receive the Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award in honor of this continued support.”

The Dora Maxwell Award is presented by the Credit Union National Association in partnership with the Michigan Credit Union League and Affiliates, to credit unions for their service done within the community. The goal is to recognize credit unions that are involved in activities that help other people or strengthens the structure of a community.

OLHSA’s 2019 Walk for Warmth Fundraiser has raised over $139,000 to assist Oakland and Livingston County families avoid heat-related emergencies. All of the money raised stays in the respective county it was raised in. Genisys Credit Union, OLHSA’s Walk for Warmth Premier Sponsor, donated $37,345 to assist local families. Throughout the year, Genisys staff holds bake sales, special lunches, and breakfasts, and sells collectible stuffed penguins to raise funds to donate to Walk for Warmth.

“Being part of a community where we care for our neighbors and assist them during difficult times to stay safe and warm through our long winter months is wonderful!  We are thankful to partner with Genisys Credit Union on such an important community program. We appreciate their lasting commitment to make the community thrive,” said Susan Harding, OLHSA CEO.

 Walk for Warmth is an annual indoor walking event to raise funds to help those in need of heating assistance during Michigan's frigid winter months as it is estimated that 1 in 3 U.S. households struggle to pay their energy bills (U.S. Energy Information Administration). Utility emergencies are also experienced more during the winter months due to the colder temperatures (OLHSA). The event is put on across the state of Michigan throughout the month of February, as a joint effort between local Community Action Agencies, like OLHSA, and Consumers Energy.