Mountain America Credit Union is celebrating a decade of its Pay it Forward program, an initiative launched in the winter of 2011 to recognize individuals and organizations who give back to others in need.
Partnering with Salt Lake City-based KUTV, the program spotlights community members making a positive impact through surprise $500 cash donations. Over the last ten years, the initiative has recognized more than 500 individuals and organizations, totaling over $250,000 in giveaways.
The program has highlighted a wide variety of causes, including animal rescues, quilters, and organizations that feed the hungry. Since its inception, the initiative has focused on recognizing those who give back without expecting anything in return.
Mountain America CEO Sterling Nielsen stated that giving back is an integral part of the credit union's culture and that one good deed can inspire a chain of positive events throughout the community. Nielsen noted that the people recognized are chosen because they give back because it is the right thing to do.
In 2015, the Pay it Forward program expanded into Idaho through partnerships with CBS2 News in Boise and Local8 News in Pocatello.
Over a six-year period in Idaho, the project produced 140 segments and distributed more than $70,000. These segments have supported various groups, such as those assisting families with children undergoing cancer treatments, suicide prevention efforts, and support for disabled veterans.
KUTV producer Maren Jensen, who has worked on the segments since 2016, said the stories are inspiring and show how people can come together to change the world through efforts both big and small.
