At AmeriCU, giving back isn’t something we schedule — it’s something we live. Every day, our teammates show up for their communities in big and small ways, creating moments of connection that ripple outward. Whether it’s coaching a youth sports team, teaching financial literacy, supporting local nonprofits, or simply offering a moment of kindness, these actions reflect who we are at our core.

This year, as we celebrate the heart of AmeriCU, we asked teammates across the organization to share what community means to them. Their stories — personal, touching, and deeply human — remind us that community impact isn’t measured in hours served, but in lives touched.

Empowering the Next Generation

For several AmeriCU teammates, giving back means investing in young people — their confidence, their futures, and their joy.

Jenny Fox volunteers with local Girl Scout troops, helping girls earn their financial literacy badges.

“As a female in a leadership role, it’s especially meaningful to me to show these young girls that they can take charge of their finances and their futures,” she shared. She teaches budgeting, confidence, and smart money habits — and finds plenty of joy along the way. “One of the girls asked how much money I make at the end of each day and if I think I should be paid more.”

And David Ocasio Ross, who coaches girls’ basketball, shared how coaching began as something he did for his daughter — but became something much deeper.

“The relationships with families… have been nothing short of amazing.”

His team went undefeated in 2025, but the real reward was witnessing his players grow.

“It reminded me how much effort they put into being 1% better every day.”

Hailey Babcock, who coaches the Leprechaun League youth program, echoed that sentiment:

“The smiles on the children’s faces when they make their first basket… it’s a pleasure to give my time to see these children grow.”

Using Skills to Make a Difference

Many teammates give back by sharing their professional skills in ways that create long‑lasting impact.

Alicia Smith is passionate about delivering financial literacy workshops:

“When we educate people, we empower them. It’s the Starfish story — saving one life at a time.”

Her work not only teaches practical skills but helps people feel seen and supported.

“People come to me afterward and say I made it relatable… that they now have a better understanding.”

Jenny Fox and Alicia Smith together exemplify how financial education can shape futures — one person, one class, one conversation at a time.

Finding Connection Through Creativity

Some teammates give back by creating moments of joy, expression, and belonging.

Madeline Soults volunteers at her local theater, helping build sets, run lights, and perform onstage. For her, the arts offer something powerful:

“In this era of disconnect, it feels especially important to help people find a space where they can escape for a few hours… To allow someone to see themselves represented on stage and to feel heard for the first time.”

Her experience with the show RENT was particularly meaningful:

“Even months later, people still come up to me to share how wonderful the show was and how important art is to them.”

Travis Knight uses his talents in balloon art and magic to bring smiles to kids and families. One mother couldn’t afford to hire him — so he performed for free.

“She cried and gave me the biggest hug… It’s amazing what a little magic and a small twisted balloon can do to uplift someone’s spirits.”

Supporting Local Organizations & Nonprofits

Across AmeriCU, teammates are strengthening the community fabric by supporting causes close to their hearts.

Danielle Cavaretta, deeply involved with the Alzheimer’s Association, gives back in memory of her father:

“It has been my mission to share the services and education provided by the Alzheimer’s Association with the community.”

Kristie Cieslak uses her voice to help families affected by addiction after losing her daughter Megan:

“These experiences matter because they’re about transforming pain into purpose… to help people feel less alone and challenge the stigma that keeps people from seeking help.”

Lisa Posselt and her family have spent years volunteering with organizations like Sleep in Heavenly Peace and the Rome Rescue Mission. She credits her mother for teaching her the importance of caring for others:

“Those moments shaped me at a young age to be the light for someone else.”

Her daughters now carry that tradition forward.

“It’s been so rewarding to be part of paying it forward. In one moment, you can change someone’s life with one small gesture.”

Caring for the Places We Call Home

For some, giving back means caring for the spaces that bring us together.

Katherine Kowatch volunteers at Clark Reservation every year because she wants people to enjoy the outdoors as much as she does.

“I love being out in the community and making our outdoor spaces cleaner for all to enjoy.”

Heather Willson organizes an annual cleanup at Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo — a tradition that began when she reached out to ask how AmeriCU could help.

“It has turned into an annual event for us!”

She also organizes AmeriCU Day at the Camden Little League concession stand.

“It was nice to know they can depend on AmeriCU in a pinch.”

Leading by Example

Many teammates serve on boards, lead initiatives, and advocate for community improvement.

Amanda Eframson, now Vice President of the Greater Sullivan Area Chamber of Commerce, shared the significance of being able to recognize businesses making a difference:

“Seeing the contributions that individuals and businesses make within our community is truly inspiring.”

Her favorite part? Sharing those moments with her daughter.

“It allows me to teach her the importance of community and helping those in need.”

Christiana Carruthers joined the Cortland Armory Board after learning how much they support the community:

“It reminded me to stay humble and grounded. Giving back to the community I live in will come back full circle.”

Why It All Matters

When asked whether these experiences reminded them why giving back matters, teammates across AmeriCU shared a resounding yes.

Because giving back…

• builds confidence, in kids learning new skills.
• creates belonging, in theaters, sports teams, and community centers.
• honors loved ones, and turns grief into purpose.
• uplifts others, even with something as simple as a balloon animal.
• strengthens families, by modeling generosity across generations.
• brings people together, exactly when they need it most.

As Jenn Schiebler put it simply and beautifully:

“Giving back is the only thing that really matters. We all have times in life when we could use a small act of kindness.”

And perhaps Travis Knight said it best:

“If we all take care of our communities together, our towns thrive.”

The Heart of AmeriCU

Community isn’t a program at AmeriCU — it’s a mindset. It’s the belief that every person has something valuable to offer and that the smallest act of compassion can spark meaningful change.

This February, we’re celebrating the heart behind it all: our people.
The coaches, the volunteers, the creators, the advocates, the helpers, and the everyday changemakers who prove — day after day — that when we give back, we all move forward.