FORT KENT, Maine — Acadia Federal Credit Union held its annual business meeting Aug. 7 and celebrated a growing membership with prizes, a picnic and family-friendly activities. The event took place at the Lions Pavilion at Riverside Park in Fort Kent.
Contributed photo
Polly Libby, left, of the Ashland Food Pantry, receives a $500 check from Tammy Curran, branch manager for Acadia FCU in Ashland. Seven hunger organizations received donations from the credit union’s Ending Hunger campaign. 
The day’s activities began with a business meeting, where President/CEO David Desjardins delivered the credit union’s financial report. At the conclusion, more than $17,000 was presented to representatives from area food pantries and food assistance programs.
Each year, nearly all of Maine’s credit unions participate in the Maine Credit Union Campaign for Ending Hunger. Acadia Federal Credit Union placed 11th for total funds raised in the state and seventh in per-member contributions, finishing with a grand total of $17,368.79 — a record-setting amount for the financial institution. The funds were distributed to representatives of First Assembly of God Food Pantry, Ashland Food Pantry, St. John Vianney Parish Food Pantry, Aroostook Area Agency on Aging/Meals on Wheels program, Our Lady of the Valley Food Pantry, Greater Fort Kent Ecumenical Food Pantry, and Notre Dame du Mont Carmel Food Pantry.
“We are awestruck with the results from the 2015 Ending Hunger campaign,” said Luis Sanclemente, vice president of Acadia FCU. “Not only did our staff, and in particular Alison Voisine, do an amazing job, but the overwhelming response from the members was unbelievable. This historic campaign allows us to return cash to the communities to assist in the feeding of those in need.”
Upon conclusion of the Ending Hunger Campaign presentation, roughly 350 people were treated to a member appreciation picnic and various activities.
A dunk tank provided the opportunity to drop the vice president of Acadia FCU, Luis Sanclemente, into 350 gallons of cold water. Many took a chance to ‘Sink Sanclemente,’ with all proceeds going toward the 2016 Ending Hunger Campaign. A total of $188 was raised toward the cause.
“I was very pleased to see such a fantastic turnout for our annual meeting and membership picnic,” said Desjardins. “It was great to see everyone socializing while the kids enjoyed the various activities we had set up for them. We truly enjoy engaging our members in the spirit of community.”
The 2016 fundraising to help end hunger in Maine is well underway, with the peak period beginning in September. Additional fundraisers have been planned and the staff and management hope to beat last year’s fundraising total.
