VSECU Makes Donation to Spectrum Youth and Family Services

802/800 371-5162

VSECU Makes Donation to Spectrum Youth and Family Services

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 26, 2007

For further information, contact:
Yvonne M. Garand, Business Development Officer
ygarand@vsecu.com or 802/800 371-5162, ext. 5197

Even with the support of family and friends, adolescence can be a confusing and uncertain time, but when traditional support systems fail, young people face even more challenges. VSECU recently donated $3,000 to Spectrum Youth and Family Services to help adolescents and young adults in crisis, particularly those who are homeless.

“When living on the streets, our youth are extremely vulnerable and at risk,” said Steven D. Post, VSECU’s chief executive officer. “Recognizing that there is an urgent need to help these young people, VSECU supports Spectrum’s many services which provide a safe haven, counseling and the resources they need to not only survive but to thrive in their communities. We also thank the caring staff and volunteers who serve as counselors and mentors, offering the kind of guidance and examples these young people seek.”

Spectrum Youth and Family Services opened in 1970 as a shelter for runaways, but since then, has expanded its services to help homeless, foster and at-risk youth. Services include homeless shelters, counseling and mentoring, health care, job training and employment support and programs to help young people make the transition from the foster care system to independent living. Spectrum also works within schools to identify youth at risk for substance abuse for early identification, intervention, and referral.

“We are very grateful to VSECU,” said Mark Redmond, executive director of Spectrum. “We depend on the generosity of both individuals, and organizations like this one, so we can continue reaching out to young people who are in need. I thank Steven Post and the board of directors of VSECU for selecting us.”

To find out more about the Spectrum Youth and Family Services, visit www.spectrumvt.org or call (802) 864 – 7423.

VSECU is a not-for-profit financial cooperative providing affordable financial products and services to Vermonters around the state. For more information on VSECU and how to join the credit union, visit www.vsecu.com or call 802/800 371-5162.

Steve Post (right), VSECU’s chief executive officer, presents a check for $3,000 to Mark Redmond, executive director of Spectrum Youth and Family Services, to support their programs helping young people at risk.