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Sound Credit Union's Afternoon of Service

Last week, Sound Credit Union (Sound) successfully conducted its cherished annual event known as the Afternoon of Service in Tacoma, Washington. This initiative brought together more than 450 enthusiastic employees from across the state, all united for a common cause: to fight food insecurity in local communities.

The 2026 edition of this event marked a notable collaboration with the Emergency Food Network (EFN), a prominent nonprofit organization focused on addressing hunger in Pierce County. Together, they set an ambitious goal to prepare and assemble 3,312 Bowls of Hope meal kits, each containing essential ingredients for making a nutritious chicken tortilla soup. These kits are designed for families and individuals struggling with food insecurity, providing them not just sustenance but also a sense of care and support from their community.

“The Afternoon of Service is one of the highlights of our year,” said Jennifer Reed, Vice President of Public Relations at Sound Credit Union. “It's more than just assembling meal kits; it’s about demonstrating our dedication to the community we serve. With rising food and living costs, it's essential that we step in and lend a helping hand.”

Thanks to Sound's collaboration with Costco, they were able to purchase the necessary ingredients in bulk, ensuring that their philanthropic efforts stretched further and made a more significant impact on the community.

Understanding the Need for Support

The need for initiatives such as this is growing. Lianna Olds, Deputy Director of Emergency Food Network, noted the increasing demand for food assistance in Pierce County. “Every month, we are witnessing more families turn to us for help, as the costs of food and essential services continue to soar. It can often feel overwhelming, but events like the Afternoon of Service remind us of the tangible ways we can combat these issues when we band together.”

The success of this event underscores the importance of collective action. By rallying employees around the noble cause of helping their neighbors, Sound Credit Union not only fosters a strong team spirit among its staff but also reaffirms its commitment to addressing the pressing needs of the communities they serve.

Sound’s community outreach strategy is built on four pivotal pillars: financial education, affordable housing, food insecurity, and support for broader community needs. Recognizing hunger as a critical issue, especially amid escalating grocery prices, this partnership with the Emergency Food Network was a natural evolution of their community support efforts.

Making a Difference Beyond Financial Services

Sound Credit Union, established in 1940, has evolved into one of Washington State's largest and most trusted credit unions, serving over 186,000 members with their financial needs. With 26 branches throughout the Puget Sound area, Sound continues to embody a mission that extends beyond banking — they stand firm in support of their members, employees, and local communities through all phases of life.

As part of its dedicated mission, Sound has made generous contributions to various community initiatives, fostering stronger ties with local organizations and reinforcing its commitment to uplifting those around them. Employees not only recognize the value of giving back but also embody the ethos of service in their daily lives.

In conclusion, Sound Credit Union’s Afternoon of Service is more than an event; it is a powerful reminder that even small contributions can create a wave of change in the community. By prioritizing acts of kindness and engaging in collaborative efforts, Sound sets a profound example of what it means to be a responsible and caring corporate citizen. The fight against hunger is far from over, but together, companies like Sound and organizations like EFN are taking important steps toward a brighter, food-secure future for all.