This year, GBICS is one of five We Care 2 Finalists! We Care 2, VSECU’s annual member-directed giving program, is distributing $50,000 to Vermont nonprofit organizations. If you or someone you know is a VSECU member, vote for GBICS online or by mail before March 17 at 5pm.
We Care 2
The We Care 2 Selection Committee chose and announced five finalists in January. VSECU has guaranteed each finalist this year will receive at least $5,000. Additionally, the remaining funds will be divided proportionally among the finalists. Each finalist receive funds based on the percentage of votes they’ve received from VSECU members. As part of VSECU’s 2021 Annual Election, members will vote for one of five Vermont nonprofits. Members vote for the organization with the biggest impact on issues of food, shelter, heat, financial education or the environment. Because COVID-19 has compounded these issues for Vermonters, VSECU has given priority to organizations that have helped provide COVID relief. You can read more about all five finalists on the We Care 2 website.
“We Care 2 has added significance this year as so many of Vermonters’ essential needs have been heightened by the global pandemic. This member-driven program embodies the credit union philosophy of ‘People Helping People,’ which is as applicable and needed as ever. As owners, our members will be able to make an impact with their vote to support their neighbors, build our communities, and improve the quality of life for Vermonters.” – Simeon Chapin, community impact officer at VSECU
Vote GBICS
Our mission is to advance the health of our neighbors by helping them meet their basic human needs including access to food, shelter and healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic has only made those needs more apparently, and meeting them more urgent. Since the pandemic began, we’ve adopted COVID precautions and adapted our programs. Because of this, we’ve managed to keep our core programs open and operating safely. Hundreds of our neighbors continue to rely on GBICS for primary medical care, food security and economic assistance.
Every vote for GBICS helps support the health and well-being of our community. With the funds we receive from VSECU’s We Care 2, we’ll buy food for distribution at the Kitchen Cupboard. Additionally, we’ll help a family pay for their heat when they’ve used up their seasonal fuel grants during the cold Vermont winter or keep their electricity on when power companies resume shut-offs for non-payment arrears. Beyond our everyday programs like the Kitchen Cupboard, Free Clinic and Food & Fuel Fund, we’ll use funds to make operations safer during the COVID pandemic. That means things like carts, racks and lighting for outdoor food distribution so we can serve more guests.
Moreover, we know how to make the most of every dollar. By partnering with other organizations like BROC and local housing agencies, we know we can amplify our impact. So what are you waiting for? Vote for GBICS!