From left to right: Blythe Ledford (King St Branch Manager), Nicole Andrino (Marketing Specialist), Rhea Joyner, Joni Creasman, Jami Bennett, Jason Bennett, Nolen Bennett, Ashley Chord, and Sheila Garland
Bowater Credit Union Member Joni Creasman has won the $1,000 Pay it Forward prize for her favorite non-profit doing good in our area, Dark Horse Rescue Ranch.
Bowater Credit Union asks its members to nominate their favorite non-profit helping people in the counties eligible for credit union membership: Bradley, McMinn, Meigs, Monroe, and Polk. Up to five $1,000 prizes are awarded yearly, and Dark Horse Rescue Ranch is the first winner in 2025.
Dark Horse Rescue Ranch’s mission is simple: taking the “unlikely to succeed” and bringing hope, healing, and restoration to horses and people. DHRR is dedicated to helping horses, youth, and women who have experienced trauma or abuse. At the ranch, the healing process begins by using the therapeutic bond between horses and humans, all rooted in the power of Jesus Christ.
Ms. Creasman states, “Jami Bennett, DHRR Founder, is a shining example of what it means to be truly dedicated to the well-being of children and families. Her passion and commitment radiate through her work with Dark Horse Rescue Ranch, where she has built a sanctuary of hope, healing, and connection. Every aspect of Jami’s efforts revolves around creating opportunities for families to come together, children to flourish, and communities to thrive.”
Ms. Creasman continues, “In a world that often feels rushed and impersonal, Jami Bennett reminds us of the importance of connection, compassion, and community. Through her work at Dark Horse Rescue Ranch, she has shown that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact. Jami’s commitment to helping kids and families is a testament to her unwavering belief in the goodness of people and the power of coming together to create a brighter future.” Dark Horse Rescue Ranch will use the funds awarded through the Pay It Forward program to continue its mission of helping the unlikely to succeed.
To learn more about Dark Horse Rescue Ranch or donate, visit their website at https://dhrr.org/.
The Pay it Forward program will continue through 2025 and will award up to four more prizes. Any member of Bowater Credit Union can nominate their favorite non-profit for a $1,000 Pay It Forward prize. The deadline to be considered for the next award is May 31, 2025.
Bowater Credit Union began the Pay It Forward program in 2010 to give back to the community it serves. Since the program’s inception, Bowater CU has given $61,000 to various charities, making a difference in our community. For more information, visit BowaterECU.org.
Bowater Employees Credit Union is a federally insured credit union offering savings, checking, loans, and financial education to those who live, work, or attend school in the counties of Bradley, McMinn, Meigs, Monroe, and Polk. They have five branches, over 20,000 members, and $300 million in assets. To learn more about Bowater Employees Credit Union and its services, call 423-336-7268 or visit BowaterECU.org.
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If you would like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview please call Kelsey O’Daniel at 423-303-5615 or email her at [email protected].