People Helping People Thrive
By Nara Shin
On the luminous morning of October 19, the community at Thrive Center was immersed in an exceptional display of support and goodwill, marking a significant milestone on International Credit Union Day. Local credit unions in Spokane renovated both inside and outside of the Thrive Center for the International Credit Union Day project. Two different groups totaling more than 100 volunteers showed up either in the morning or afternoon shift to collaborate and help with the project. From the early hours at 8:30 a.m. to the late afternoon at 4 p.m., Spokane Credit Unions joined in transforming Thrive into a cozier, brighter house for refugee/immigrant families.
"With unprecedented numbers of individuals fleeing conflicts and oppression globally, Spokane has ardently embraced thousands of refugees each year," stated Thrive's International executive director, Mr. Finney. He continued, "Thrive International takes pride in partnering with our local credit unions to empower these newcomers in rebuilding their lives and fostering new aspirations, thereby fortifying a more resilient and vibrant community for all."
The day commenced with the unloading of a gift that left Thrive speechless — enough funding to purchase a new van and a trailer, generously donated by the Spokane Credit Unions. Thrive offers women and youth empowerment programs and cultural integration programs, but due to the lack of transportation, Thrive couldn’t take more refugee/immigrant families, women, and youth to outdoor activities. However, their generous gifts will allow our staff and volunteers to better serve our program participants and amplify our impact within the community.
In addition to the invaluable vehicular support, the local credit unions contributed essential home and cleaning supplies for the residents of the Thrive Center, providing much-needed assistance for those starting anew in Spokane. For the past eight years, these credit unions have been actively engaged in various community initiatives, driven by their mission of "people helping people."
This year, the project saw the participation of 18 credit unions, including Avista Credit Union, BECU, Canopy Credit Union, Cheney Federal Credit Union, Gesa Credit Union, Global Credit Union, Horizon Credit Union, Idaho Central Credit Union, Numerica Credit Union, PrimeSource Credit Union, Progressions Credit Union, Responders Emergency Services Credit Union, Safeway Employees Federal Credit Union, Spokane City Credit Union, Spokane Firefighters Credit Union, Spokane Media Federal Credit Union, STCU, and WSECU.
Throughout International Credit Union Day, every nook and cranny of the Thrive Center reverberated with the dedication of the volunteers. Divided into five groups based on their skills and interests, the volunteers embarked on various tasks, including basement demolition, hard floor installation in the conference room, storage organization, exterior cleaning, and wall painting.
Thriving within a former Quality Inn building, some of Thrive's staff have been utilizing the basement's "bar" areas as their offices. The longstanding aspiration to transform these spaces into functional business offices was realized on International Credit Union Day, as volunteers undertook the arduous tasks of carpet removal, hard floor installation, wall demolition, and ceiling renovation, donning protective gear to ensure their safety while fulfilling Thrive's dream.
At the upper conference room at Thrive Center, often hosting Zumba sessions and meetings for program participants, Thrive had long awaited the installation of hard floors. On this day, credit unions’ volunteers moved and stuck hard-floor longboards for the whole day.
Meanwhile, the volunteers meticulously organized the storage areas in the basement, previously cluttered with program supplies, belongings of former tenants, service tools, and tangled wires. Through their efforts, the items were sorted, categorized, and neatly packed into labeled boxes, facilitating ease of access for the staff.
The collective venture culminated in the vibrant rejuvenation of the center's walls, replacing the former yellowish patterns with fresh, lively hues, echoing the resilient spirit and hope that defined the day.
Some volunteers helped clean up the exterior, weeding, and the meticulous use of leaf-blowers to ensure the premises of the Thrive Center were immaculate and inviting. Their commitment to maintaining the external environment echoed their profound dedication to creating a welcoming atmosphere that mirrors the essence of warmth and hospitality of Thrive Center in the community we serve.
The events of International Credit Union Day at the Thrive Center serve as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that can be achieved when individuals and organizations unite in pursuit of a common goal—people helping people. It's a reminder that transformation is not just a solitary effort but a symphony of compassionate hearts and willing hands, each playing a crucial part in creating a better tomorrow. We extend our deepest gratitude to Spokane Credit Unions and every volunteer who lent their time and energy to make this day an unforgettable testament to the power of unity and giving back.