KNOXVILLE, TENN. – November 10, 2025 – In celebration of World Kindness Day on November 13, UT Federal Credit Union (UTFCU) has spent the past month spreading kindness across Tennessee through its employee-led Acts of Kindness campaign. From October 13 through November 13, 17 cross-departmental teams of UTFCU employees performed creative, meaningful acts of service to uplift the communities they proudly serve.

Spearheaded by the UTFCU Kindness Committee, the campaign reflects the credit union’s mission to “improve lives, financially and beyond.” From delivering meals to children and supporting local shelters, to paying for laundry and cleaning up public spaces, each team used a modest budget to make a big difference.

“Our employees maintain strong connections with our members and communities, and this initiative is a unique, hands-on way for them to dive even deeper,” said Hanna Gomez, Chief Marketing Officer and Kindness Committee Executive Sponsor. “We’ve seen teams stretch every dollar to create meaningful moments, and the creativity and compassion they’ve demonstrated are incredible. The Acts of Kindness have been a special way to embody our core values while building deeper relationships within our communities and the UTFCU family.”

Connecting Teams & Serving Communities

The initiative united employees from branches and corporate offices into cross-departmental teams to serve together. Working alongside more than 25 local partner organizations, teams volunteered dozens of hours, donated hundreds of essential items, and engaged directly with residents to bring encouragement and hope.

Across Tennessee, UTFCU employees sought simple ways to address real needs in their neighborhoods. In Knoxville, one group surprised laundromat patrons by paying for their wash cycles, offering detergent, and sharing snacks to brighten their day. In West Tennessee, another team partnered with Trudy’s Kids Café to feed local children facing food insecurity. Some employees spent the day at Susannah’s House, serving mothers in addiction recovery and exploring ways UTFCU could continue to support them through financial education. Others volunteered at Camp Koinonia’s Halloween celebration, ensuring campers with disabilities enjoyed an inclusive and festive evening.

These efforts combined supported more than a dozen nonprofits—including hospitals, shelters, advocacy centers, and schools—and directly served hundreds of children, community members, and seniors throughout Tennessee.

Building on a Legacy of Kindness

Acts of Kindness 2025 builds on the success of UTFCU’s 2019 “50 Acts of Kindness” campaign, which marked the credit union’s 50th anniversary through statewide community projects. The renewed effort expands on that legacy by empowering employees to serve in ways that align with their passions, strengthen local relationships, and reinforce UTFCU’s people-first values.

The Power of Community

Local businesses and organizations also joined in to amplify the initiative’s reach. Restaurants donated meals and treats, faith groups organized clothing drives, and nonprofits welcomed volunteers, all demonstrating the collective impact of organizations working together for the greater good.

A Culture of Service That Lasts Beyond November

As the campaign culminates on World Kindness Day, UTFCU celebrates the ripple effects of compassion and connection. The initiative has strengthened relationships across departments, deepened bonds with members, and reaffirmed UTFCU’s commitment to improving lives, financially and beyond.

Looking ahead, UTFCU will dedicate resources year-round to local nonprofit organizations and community members in need, providing volunteer hours, hosting donation drives, and offering financial education. This ongoing commitment reinforces a culture of service that will last well beyond November.

Read more about UTFCU’s Acts of Kindness initiative in this blog.

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Chartered in 1969, UT Federal Credit Union (UTFCU) is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution serving individuals, families, and businesses across Tennessee. Committed to member-focused service and community impact, UTFCU offers a full range of financial solutions that support local growth and empower members to reach their goals. With assets surpassing $500 million in 2025, UTFCU proudly serves its growing membership with the promise: “For All Who Love Tennessee.”