Business View Magazine June 2023

142 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 10, ISSUE 6 who need to address debt challenges. Community support is a constant TCT FCU is heavily involved in its local communities, providing funding, resources, and volunteers for several charitable organizations. Scholarships TCT FCU has offered college-bound high school seniors the opportunity to compete for statewide college scholarships through the New York Credit Union Association’s College Scholarship Program for a number of years. Scholarships may be used at a two- or four-year accredited educational institution, vocational or trade school. In 2022, the New York Credit Union Association awarded $33,750 in college scholarships, ranging from $500 to $1,500, to 45 students. TCT awarded $9,000 in college scholarships to 10 high school seniors and has started to award scholarships to students attending trade schools as well. Teacher of the Week Teacher of the Week is a weekly awards program sponsored by TCT FCU and Adirondack Broadcasting. It allows the two organizations to honor local school employees for their outstanding efforts. One Teacher of the Week recipient is selected each week and announced on air. Teachers who are recognized get various gift cards and free services like restaurants, a hair salon, a winery, and other recognition. All teachers are featured on TCT’s website and social media. Other efforts to support local schools and teachers include food pantry donations for low-income students and their families and gathering 400 backpacks filled with supplies and freebies for local teachers, says Dickinson. “We want to make sure we provide well- rounded support for our members, teachers, and others who play an important role in our community,” Dickinson says. Another financial topic that TCT regularly educates about is the cost and process of college applications. It has hosted training sessions on how parents of high school seniors planning to attend college should fill out the FAFSA online application that can help identify student aid opportunities. “We’re here to address member needs so they are more prepared for their (financial) future,” Dickinson says. PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n OM Financial Group bsmith@om-financial.com OM Financial Group helps strengthen non-profit organizations by using Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans (SERPs) as a tool to engage and motivate key executives. We provide the education and guidance necessary to make informed strategic decisions that are in the best interest of your organization today and for years to come. n CUNA Mutual Group www.cunamutual.com