With its Heart of a Hero Spotlight, Visions Federal Credit Union, Endicott, N.Y., honors people in the local community who are supporting others during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“People are really stepping up and doing their part to help those in our communities,” says Tim Strong, community development manager at the $4.3 billion asset credit union. “Whether it’s providing free meals or donating supplies, we want to shine a light on their good work.”

For Visions Federal, that means sharing these stories with its more than 210,000 members.

“Even when businesses are struggling, a lot of them are giving back,” Strong says. “Shining a light on what they do not only brings positivity, it could bring them the additional business they need to stay open. Hopefully, it will inspire others to give however they can.”

The first Heart of a Hero Spotlight was Finger Lakes Distilling in Watkins Glen, N.Y., one of Visions Federal’s business members. The distillery now manufactures ethanol to produce hand sanitizer in bulk and donates it to local hospitals and law enforcement agencies.

Visions Federal also shared the story of Justin Nadal, a local high school teacher who runs his school’s news channel. Even though students are learning remotely, he’s still putting together the news show for students.

Nadal received $500 for being featured—and he promptly donated the money to local families in need.

Most recently, the credit union recognized a business member in Norwich, N.Y., for dedicating her time, energy, and business space into making masks for local nursing homes, doctor’s offices, and hospitals.

When Visions Federal asked Sew Sewcial owner Betty Anne Jansen why she does this, she put it simply: “I believe our communities are as good as what we put into them.”

Visions Federal will feature a new Heart of a Hero recipient each week on a special webpage, and via its social media channels, which include Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.