EmployeesCARE Donation to AFSP

Credit Union West employees donated $4,381 to the Arizona chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). As part of their ongoing efforts to support the local community, AFSP was chosen because of their work with those who have lost loved ones to suicide and for their efforts to make mental health issues a priority.

Founded in 2010, the Arizona chapter of AFSP is run by volunteers who are committed to turning their losses into something with meaning and purpose. Their mission is to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide through prevention and education programs, fundraising for research, and helping individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide.

To help support their efforts, Credit Union West leaders presented the Arizona AFSP Area Director, Cori Frolander, with the donation check on September 29th at their Corporate Center in Glendale, Arizona.

“This donation will help us to grow our programs and outreach methods, particularly to Arizona’s youth,” Frolander said. “The COVID-19 pandemic has forced students to learn remotely, which for some, has affected their mental well-being. This donation will help us invest in our important prevention programs.”

This charitable gift was made possible by Credit Union West employees who donated to the EmployeesCARE Program, which raises funds for a nonprofit organization selected by employees each quarter. With local charities still struggling due to COVID-19, President and CEO, Karen Roch, recently challenged Credit Union West employees by providing her own personal matching funds to increase giving.

“I am so proud that our employees rose to this challenge,” Roch said. “As reported by the CDC in 2019, suicide remains a leading cause of death for Arizonans. Credit Union West is honored to help fund organizations such as the AFSP that make a tangible impact on the communities we serve.”

This is the third charitable donation that Credit Union West employees have made through the EmployeesCARE Program this year. Last year, employees donated nearly $13,000 to local organizations and they are on track to increase donations in 2021.

Anyone interested in volunteering with AFSP can find more information and resources at asfp.org/chapter/arizona

A photo of the check presentation can be downloaded here.