Vermont NorthCountry Federal Credit Union recently donated $30,000 in recognition of the positive impact refugees and immigrants have on the Vermont community “As a credit union, we follow closely the credo “neighbor helping neighbor,” states Bob Morgan, CEO, NorthCountry Federal Credit Union. “This includes our new neighbors from other lands who may need assistance in creating lives in Vermont. We fully support the work of USCRI in helping new Americans to integrate to Vermont while being respectful of their cultural beliefs and activities. We are happy to make this donation to help our new friends in the community.”

This donation will assist many programs that are active in Vermont. A portion of the funds will enable USCRI Vermont to expand its existing youth mentorship program, which pairs community volunteer mentors with middle- and high-school aged refugees, providing these newcomers with guidance, stability and cultural insight as they navigate life in their new home. It will also enable USCRI Vermont to expand its well-established English classes, broadening the pool of refugees and immigrants with access to preparation for citizenship exams. USCRI Vermont and NorthCountry Federal Credit Union hope this donation can be a launching point to support, welcome and bring additional hope to New Americans in Vermont.