Consumers Credit Union shows support for local communities

Consumers Credit Union recently wrapped up an active summer of community outreach and support. There were 123 employees of the member-owned cooperative volunteered at a variety of community festivals and activities hosted by local not-for-profit organizations.

This year's outreach extended to more than a dozen events, along with cash donations and hosting no-cost educational seminars that were open to the public.

"It's very important for businesses to show their support for our local communities," said Sean M. Rathjen, CCU's CEO.

"Against the backdrop of the devastating floods this past July, that has been truer than ever this year. Consumers Credit Union is proud to have so many employees who support our outreach by donating their time to volunteer at local festivals, fundraisers for not-for-profits, and other causes that they believe in. That team effort allowed us to expand our support again this year."

Rathjen and the CCU team were especially proud to be part of Gurnee Days the second weekend in August.

"Gurnee was one of the hardest-hit areas in the state," he said. "It was humbling to witness the tremendous spirit of Gurnee residents during their festival. While these folks just went through a very trying time, their resolve and resiliency was fully on display during Gurnee Days."

Gurnee is home to the credit union's administrative headquarters and one of its most successful branch locations.

One core objective is to extend the credit union's involvement throughout the year.

This year's outreach began in January with Lake County's Most Influential African American Banquet, where CCU sponsored two tables and hosted 10 students and chaperones from North Chicago, followed by a table sponsorship at Mano a Mano's annual fundraiser in early spring.

More recent activities included marching in the Round Lake Beach Memorial Day Parade and the Waukegan Independence Day Parade. CCU also sponsored One Hope United's "Picnic for Hope" in July and participated in the Most Blessed Trinity Kermes in Waukegan in August.

Fundraising and education also play a big role in CCU's community outreach program. The credit union donated $1,000 to P.L.A.N. Food Pantry in June, while their team supported beer garden fundraisers at Mundelein Days, the Round Lake Area Beach Fest and the Lake County Fair by hosting a booth and serving attendees.

CF&IS, the credit union's investment partner, also hosted a series of no-cost educational retirement seminars that were open to the public at large, as well as credit union members.

For more information about CCU's community involvement, contact Sean M. Rathjen at (847) 782-4670 or visit www.myconsumers.org.

• To submit Your news with one photo, go to dailyherald.com/share. To submit Your news with multiple photos, send it to nbrcalender@dailyherald.com.