People Helping Parents: Columbia Shows Up for Local Families 

Back-to-school season brings excitement, but it can also put real pressure on a family’s budget. This year, Columbia Credit Union wanted to help make the transition a little easier. 

On August 5, we partnered with Perry’s Full Service to host People Helping Parents, a community event grounded in a simple idea: when neighbors come together, small acts of support can make a meaningful difference. 

Throughout July, our members, employees, and community collected nearly 3,000 school supplies. During the event, families selected the backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and other essentials their children needed for the new school year. 

We also surprised people in 140 cars with a little relief at the pump. Luda’s Lemonade joined the effort by generously donating much of the lemonade served during the event. 

“What made the day so special was watching people show up for one another,” said Jennifer Heath, President of Columbia Credit Union. “Our community donated, local businesses partnered with us, volunteers stepped in, and our employees showed up ready to help wherever they were needed. It was People Helping People in action.” 

This event brought together two organizations with deep roots in Columbia. Perry’s Full Service has served the community for three generations, and Columbia Credit Union has called Boone County home since 1935. 

We are incredibly grateful to Perry’s Full Service, Luda’s Lemonade, our employees and volunteers, and every person who donated supplies or helped bring the event to life. 

The Columbia Missourian also stopped by to cover the event. 

People Helping Parents was a beautiful reminder that helping does not have to begin with a grand gesture. It begins by noticing where support is needed and choosing to show up. 

Thank you, Columbia, for showing up for local families and helping students begin the school year with the supplies they need. 

Categorized in: News, Welcome to the Columbia Credit Union Blog