You Voted; We Gave: Meet our Amazing 2019 12 Gifts of Unison Recipients
December 20, 2019
We’re excited to announce the recipients of the 12 Gifts of Unison, a program we created to last year to thank organizations that positively impact local individuals and families. In its second year, the 12 Gifts of Unison program was enhanced to allow our community to vote for deserving nonprofits throughout the month of November. People could choose from 20 pre-selected nonprofits or write in an organization near and dear to their heart. Last week our team visited the selected organizations to deliver a monetary donation of $1,000.
“The 12 Gifts of Unison was created so we could give back to organizations that are not only making a difference in Unison’s branch communities, but also are important causes to our members and the community,” said Mark Hietpas, Unison Credit Union president and CEO. “This program is the perfect way to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.”
Below are the nonprofits who received a donation:
1. Spierings Cancer Foundation
We were thrilled to give to Spierings Cancer Foundation this year. They focus their efforts on supporting patients and families affected by cancer as well as funding cancer research. We love the fact that 80% of the money raised for their foundation is given back to families in the Fox Cities community!
2. Pillars
Everyone deserves a home, and that is why Pillars is so dear to our hearts. Pillars strives to give shelter, support and solutions to those experiencing homelessness within our area. We can’t wait to see the impact they will have in 2020.
3. Foster the Village
Did you know that approximately 250 children are in foster care in Brown County and that this number grows each week? The community spoke and their write-in nomination was heard. This is why it was so wonderful to present Foster the Village with our gift and learn about the great work they do! They aim to support the Brown County Foster Care community with clothing, shoes, and other care items in order to help children in foster care feel loved and respected.
4. CASA of Brown County
Often a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is the only consistent adult presence in an abused or neglected child’s life. CASA of Brown County is dedicated to helping these children in Brown County. These volunteers visit children under legal protection of the court system and make them feel safe and secure. It was a joy to present this gift and hear their mission for 2020!
5. Old Glory Honor Flight
When it comes to honoring veterans and ensuring their legacy of service is appreciated, Old Glory Honor Flight does just that here in our community. They offer local veterans a free, safe and rewarding tour of Washington, D.C. memorials built in their honor.
6. St. Joseph Food Program
We were so excited to meet with the St. Joseph Food Program volunteers and present our gift that will go towards fighting food insecurity in our communities. We are looking forward to seeing St. Joseph’s continued great work in 2020!
7. Wrightstown Food Pantry
Wrightstown Food Pantry is doing incredible work to provide nutritional food for those who need it most in the Wrightstown area. It was an honor to learn more about them and encourage their energy in the new year! Thank you for all you do, Wrightstown Food Pantry!
8. Autism Society of the Fox Valley
Autism can occur in approximately 1 out of every 59 children born today and early diagnosis, intervention and a system of support are important to the future development of the child. This is why the Autism Society of the Fox Valley is dedicated to serving autistic individuals and their families. It is our honor to come alongside them in the good work they do.
9. Center for Suicide Awareness
Located in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, the Center for Suicide Awareness is committed to preventing suicide and educating others on the best ways to approach loved ones experiencing suicidal thoughts. We were so excited to meet them and present our gift as a thank-you for all their hard work.
10. Vets & Friends of Wisconsin
Coffee house and food pantry and seasonal garden – Oh My! Vets & Friends of Wisconsin does all of the above and works to meet the various needs of Wisconsin’s veterans to improve their quality of life. Vets & Friends of Wisconsin – we salute you!
11. Saving Paws Animal Rescue
Every animal deserves a family and Saving Paws never strays from that mission. They rescue homeless, abandoned and special needs animals and find them their own family, either through a new adoptive home or in a lifelong sanctuary. Thank you for all you do!
12. Special Olympics of Wisconsin – Fox Valley
Whether it’s soccer, tennis, skiing or basketball, Special Olympics of Wisconsin—Fox Valley Area dedicates their time to providing Fox Valley children and adults with or without intellectual disabilities year-round sports training and competition.
We would like to thank all those who participated and took time to vote for their favorite nonprofit this year! We are looking forward to another amazing year for these nonprofits in 2020!