United CU backs teachers in school supply drive

United Credit Union in Tyler, Texas, recently collected $650 from employees and members for its Back the Teacher program. Now in its second year, the program previously supported an elementary school in Tyler Independent School District, but this year, the credit union decided to expand its reach in Smith County to Troup Elementary School in the Troup ISD.

Using the funds donated, United CU purchased teacher supplies in bulk, filling 56 bags with pencils, highlighters, binder clips, erasers, note pads, and more. Employees also made sure to include popular snacks, placing cookies, chips, and drinks into each bag.

Staff and board members from the credit union delivered supplies to the school. The delivery crew included CEO Sherri McElyea, Loan Manager Sonia Flora, Board Chairman George Creel, and Vice Chairman Courtney Klepfer.

Teachers expressed their gratitude for the supplies. “We appreciate the support for our school and how the community has rallied around,” said Troup Elementary Assistant Principal Kella Stanley. “We appreciate everything you do.

McElyea described how important it is for her credit union to give back to the community. “I have teachers in my family, and I understand how much of their own money they put into their classrooms and their students. So last year, when we were looking for a community event, the idea came to us.”

She added, “This year, it was crucial to continue to show our teachers how much they are appreciated and give them support, but we wanted to recognize more than just teachers. We also provided the same bags to the teacher aides, and then we personalized bags for the administrative staff. At the same time, it was important to our employees to give something to the custodial staff, especially with the way the school year ended and with schools opening amid COVID-19. To honor the ones cleaning those buildings, we gave them a special bag with treats and a key chain that said, ‘thank you for all you do for our kids.’ When we went to deliver them, it was a surprise to many of the recipients. They were so excited and so appreciative. This was my second year to deliver the bags and key chains, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

McElyea explained that she and her staff go out into the community to “share the joy,” and what they get back is immeasurably more. The credit union has already started planning for next year’s campaign, branching out to other counties they serve. And while employees may not be able to include every school in the credit union’s field of membership, they will continue making a difference where they can and live out United CU’s core belief of “Valuing People” one person at a time.

“It doesn’t matter what size you are—we can all make a difference in some way in our communities,” McElyea said.