OSWEGO, Ill. – Eager to meet Santa Claus, families lined up in the administrative building of Earthmover Credit Union (ECU). Meet Santa and Dewey, hosted by ECU, provided an opportunity for children to take photos with Santa, see ECU dinosaur mascot Dewey and receive goodies, all for free.
“Events such as these really help to promote our core value of being a benefit to the community,” Business Development Manager Heidi Baird said.
Children took photos with Santa, who merrily greeted them and asked about their holiday wish list. Mascot Dewey was a big hit, high-fiving children and posing for photos, ECU said. Children received a pop-it bracelet, Santa stress ball, reindeer tattoo, coloring book, candy cane and cookies.
“It was especially heartwarming seeing many families for the first time start a tradition with us,” Youth Development Coordinator Dey Flores said. “I loved seeing everyone dressed up, the reactions and laughs.”
ECU said it transformed its training room into a cozy holiday-themed display, complete with wrapped boxes nestled under the decorated Christmas tree. Twinkling string lights and garlands wrapped around the windows.
The goal of the event was to exemplify the credit union value of giving back to the community by providing an entertaining and free way for families to celebrate the holidays.
“At the holidays, there are so many added expenses,” said Baird. “To be able to take your kids somewhere safe and warm with no extra charge for an event kids love is just one way Earthmover Credit Union can give back to the community.”
ECU said it utilized COVID-19 safety precautions such as an appointment system to reduce the amount of people in the room at one time.