SELCO Steps Up was conceptualized to fill the ever-changing needs of our community.
It’s been one year since the launch of Steps Up, and to mark the occasion, SELCO hosted a week of appreciation from February 18-21 to give back even more.
There was no better way to celebrate the one-year anniversary of Steps Up than by rolling up our sleeves and organizing a week of community-driven activities.
For Our Members
To kick off the week, branches across the region added a surprise to members’ visits by offering a variety of treats to enjoy on February 18. The one-day event was part of SELCO’s ongoing commitment to showing appreciation to our members. From chocolates to pastries, each branch provided a welcoming experience.
Throughout the week, members were also able to vote from the following list of community partner finalists that originated from over 160 submissions from our own teammates. Members who visited our branches received a ticket containing different nonprofits in town that were in the running to receive a SELCO donation, and they were asked to vote for their favorite. We were thrilled to include them in this process.
After tallying votes from our members, we revealed the five winners from our five regions (Eugene/Springfield, Albany, Salem, Forest Park, and Central Oregon). These five organizations received SELCO donations to continue their work supporting youth, families, and individuals in our communities:
- Food for Lane County (Eugene/Springfield)
- Center for Hope & Safety (Albany)
- Lift Urban Portland (Forest Park)
- Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency (Salem)
- Jackson Street Youth Services (Central Oregon)
Shining a spotlight on Food for Lane County, when it was founded in 1984, the nonprofit had one person on staff, along with a volunteer and five board members. That small but mighty group was able to distribute almost 2 million pounds of food to 43,000 Lane County residents that first year. Since then, Food for Lane County has expanded to be a Lane County pillar, helping support and improve the lives of area residents.
For our communities
SELCO Steps Up Ambassadors went above and beyond during celebration week. They ventured out into our communities and stocked nonprofit wish lists, surprised educators with classroom supplies, and performed over 20 random acts of kindness.
For SELCO team members
Customizable buttons were made available at each of our branches and SELCO Corporate Headquarters for our team members. The buttons contained the phrase “I Step Up For…,” allowing everyone to showcase the cause they were passionate about. It was great to see our team members supporting educational and environmental initiatives, and even favorite local nonprofit organizations.
A virtual scavenger hunt was also provided teamwide, along with a drop-in event hosted on Wednesday, where team members could stop by for local treats, a photo booth, customizable buttons, and a volunteer kit-building project.
SELCO Steps Up Ambassadors
This week couldn’t have been possible without our Steps Up Ambassadors. These team members have stepped up to champion their communities, playing a vital role in bringing Celebration Week to life.
We cannot wait to celebrate another year of giving. Follow along on social media to view all the highlights from SELCO’s Celebration Week and to see our ongoing efforts in the community all year round.
Published February 20, 2025
