November 6, 2026 -
SOUTH BURLINGTON, VT – A community is defined not only by the place we call home, but by how we care for the people in it. From helping families put food on the table to standing alongside those facing a cancer diagnosis, Vermonters have a long history of showing up for one another. This October, Vermont Federal Credit Union was proud to support two organizations turning that spirit of generosity into meaningful action.
As the presenting sponsor of Spectrum's Empty Bowl Dinner and the Cancer Patient Support Foundation's Evening Song: Bet on Hope 25th Anniversary Celebration, Vermont Federal supported two important causes that touch lives across our state: food security and assistance for individuals and families facing cancer.
Held Wednesday, October 7, at the University of Vermont's Davis Center in Burlington, Spectrum's Empty Bowl Dinner brought community members together around a belief that everyone should have access to a nourishing meal. The event's simple tradition of sharing a meal served in a handcrafted bowl reminds us that hunger is not always visible, but it affects neighbors, families, and communities throughout Vermont. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and supporters, this year's event raised more than $136,000 to help advance Spectrum's work addressing food insecurity.
Later in October, the community gathered again for Evening Song: Bet on Hope, celebrating the Cancer Patient Support Foundation's 25 years of helping Vermonters facing cancer. As presenting sponsor, Vermont Federal was proud to be involved in an evening recognizing a quarter century of compassion, generosity, and support for patients and their families.
"One of the best things about Vermont is the way people show up for one another," said Jean Giard, President and CEO of Vermont Federal Credit Union. "Whether it's helping a family put food on the table or supporting someone through a cancer diagnosis, these organizations make a positive influence on people's lives. We are honored to support both of these Vermont organizations and the meaningful work they do for individuals and families across our state."
Giving back is part of what it means to be a community credit union. Through charitable giving, employee volunteerism, and the Vermont Federal Foundation, Vermont Federal Credit Union supports organizations and programs focused on food security, affordable and stable housing, sustainability, and stronger communities.
At the heart of both events are people and families who deserve support, especially when life takes an unanticipated turn. The generosity behind these efforts extends far beyond a single evening, providing comfort, relief, and hope to those who need it most. Vermont Federal is honored to support the organizations and community members making that possible and to be an element of a community that continues to show up for its neighbors.
