American Heritage Credit Union (“American Heritage”) recently completed its 4^th annual Recycling for Readers Drive, which collects gently-used books of all genres to be donated to community organizations and nonprofits. This year’s associate-only collection was incredibly successful, with more than 1,450 books donated by American Heritage associates for this cause. 40 American Heritage associates volunteered their time to this effort.

Associates sorted, organized, and delivered the books to be donated to seven local organizations, including:

• Fox Chase Cancer Center
• Books for Smiles
• YMCA Northeast
• Just Children Child Care Center
• Lassin Early Learning Center
• Precious One's Child Care Center
• Goodwill NE Philadelphia

The book donations make a significant impact on each of the organizations. Early literacy efforts are supported through the books given to the childcare and early learning centers, while the books donated to Fox Chase Cancer Center provide patients with entertainment while they wait for appointments or to receive treatment.

“We are very grateful for the generous donation of books for our cancer patients,” said Helen Gordon, CAVS, CPXP, Director of Volunteer Services at Fox Chase Cancer Center. “This kindness makes a difference by offering comfort, distraction, and a welcome escape through the power of reading. For many patients, a good book provides a moment of peace and normalcy during their time here. There are ten bookshelves throughout the cancer center where patients can easily find these books. We sincerely thank you and the many associates who helped make this happen.”

“We are so pleased with the success of this year’s Recycling for Readers Drive,” said Diana Clark, AVP, Payroll & Recruiting for American Heritage and the organizer of Recycling for Readers. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact our associates’ efforts have in our local communities, especially through the work of our Green Team Committee. Thank you to all our associates who donated books or their time to this initiative!”