Eglin Federal Credit Union employees raised $7,347 to support suicide prevention for youth and the military through the Bring Hope Dragon Boat Festival and Race held at the Gulf Restaurant on Okaloosa Island Sunday, Sept. 10. Two employee teams raised money by organizing a dessert auction, hot dog luncheon, turtle wreath auction, website donations and a steerer’s auction. In addition to the funds raised by the teams, EFCU was also the Dragon Sponsor donating $10k.

“We can’t thank Eglin Federal Credit Union enough for their ongoing support of our mission to prevent youth and military suicide,” said United for a Good Cause, Inc. Executive Director Peggy Brockman. “They came out in full, spirited force with two employee teams, and we’re so grateful for their willingness to grab a paddle and make a difference in our community. Due to Eglin Federal Credit Union’s past support, we were able to stand up 35 schools with a peer-to-peer suicide prevention program in Okaloosa County, and we were able to stand up the first ever in the nation Hope Squad active duty military program. We appreciate their commitment to this important cause.”

Next year’s Bring Hope Dragon Boat Festival and Race is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 7 at the same location.

“I am extremely proud of Eglin Federal Credit Union employees for volunteering and showing our support to the communities in which we live, work and play,” said President/CEO Jerry Williams. “We are looking forward to next year’s event and encourage other teams to sign up for this worthwhile race.”  

Watch the highlight video from the event.