SANTA FE, New Mexico, September 10, 2018 – Del Norte Credit Union employees presented YouthWorks! with a check for $8,500 to support the organization’s drive to qualify for $15,000 in matching funds from a grant. DNCU also helped the nonprofit, community-based organization by partnering to celebrate DNCU’s membership during their annual membership appreciation days. YouthWorks! Catering provided boxed lunches to DNCU members at all six of their locations. The catering program helps at-risk youth acquire the skills and training needed to succeed in future careers.

Chuck Valenti, DNCU’s President/CEO noted that, “Del Norte Credit Union provides more than just financial products for our communities, we stand behind organizations like YouthWorks! that help mentor Northern New Mexico’s youth.” He went on to state that, “DNCU’s mission of improving lives, begins with improving the lives of our youth so that we can achieve a brighter future together. I am especially proud that a portion of these funds were donated by our employees through our Teen Day Tuesdays funds.”

DNCU’s Teen Day Tuesdays program encourages employees to donate to improve the lives of youth in return for extra casual clothing days.

Melynn Schuyler, Founder and Executive Director of Youthworks! stated that, “it’s been a dream of Youthworks for many years for our culinary program to take off and become a top catering company in Santa Fe.” She continued, “with DNCU’s support, we’ve been able to achieve so much and help so many of our kids learn about the culinary profession and get certified to start working in the food business.”

Penny Rodriguez, Special Projects Manager at Youthworks! commented that, “the kids that are in the culinary program are engaged and are excited to work. The culinary program achieved a two-year goal in six months, and to me that shows these kids are committed and willing to achieve great success.”

About YouthWorks!

Youthworks is a nonprofit, community-based organization that creates opportunities for “disconnected” youth to become engaged and valued members of our community. Learn more about how you can help make a difference in the lives of young people at santafeyouthworks.org

About Del Norte Credit Union

Chartered in 1954, Del Norte Credit Union is dedicated to helping its members achieve their financial goals by being a trusted source of unbiased financial advice. Today, DNCU serves more than 50,000 members throughout New Mexico.