Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda

I’m sure it’s happened to all of us. We look back and say, “if I only knew then what I know now”. We ponder over past decisions wishing we had gone left instead of right, chosen one path over the one we took, tried this or avoided that. All that second guessing. Truth is each choice we made led us to where we are. Good, bad or indifferent, here is where we are and worrying about what could have been, serves no useful purpose. We make decisions with the information at hand, by instinct, through experience, and maybe a touch of desire, but we make them, believing it’s right at the time. We do the best we can with what we’ve got and with good intentions.

It’s the same thing at Freedom. We have a great team continuously looking for ways to make things better for our members, our employees, and our community, We gather data, do research, discuss (sometimes ad nauseum) and then we make the choices we think are in the best interest of all concerned.

As we navigate the final stages of the merger over the next few months, rest assured there are a lot of people working diligently to maximize the benefit while minimizing the impact. As with any endeavor such as this, there will be challenges but they won’t be the result from a lack of effort on our part.

I think the quote by the poet Robert Burns sums it up. “The best-laid schemes o’ mice an’ men gang aft a-gle” (the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry) which means no matter how much one plans, external factors can disrupt and derail those plans. It serves as a reminder of life’s unpredictability and the need for flexibility. It’s not about perfection it’s about progress, and Freedom continues to progress in support of our mission and all those we serve.

Why We Do What We Do

I spend a lot of time talking about the emotional side of what we do, how helping people and supporting the community matters. I believe doing what is right is not only essential to our mission but good for our world. I can go on and on about this, but I thought it was time I talked about the “business” side of why we do what we do by focusing on the value consumers place on their financial institution’s commitment to and support of the community and how they view it as a strong indicator of the institution’s values and trustworthiness. So, here’s why Freedom’s community support is so meaningful:

Builds trust and loyalty: When Freedom actively supports local charities, sponsors community events, or invests in local businesses, it creates a sense of shared values with members and prospective members. This fosters an emotional connection that goes beyond just providing financial services, leading to greater trust and loyalty.
Enhances reputation and brand image: Consumers are increasingly conscious of social and environmental issues. When Freedom demonstrates a genuine commitment to social responsibility we are perceived more favorably, enhancing our brand image and reputation within the community.
Creates a sense of shared purpose: For many consumers, especially younger generations like Gen Z, the purpose of businesses extends beyond profit to include serving communities and society. Banking with an institution like Freedom that actively gives back allows people to feel that their financial choices are contributing to a positive social impact, aligning their personal values with their financial decisions.
Differentiates from larger institutions: Credit Unions, in particular, are recognized for their deep roots in local communities and commitment to social responsibility. In an era where larger banks may be perceived as impersonal, Freedom’s community focus can be a significant draw for those seeking personalized service and a sense of belonging.
Impacts satisfaction and engagement: Research indicates that positive corporate social responsibility beliefs significantly impact member satisfaction and commitment. According to The Financial Brand, 93% of consumers who said their financial institution was generous with charitable contributions were very satisfied or extremely satisfied with their primary provider.

Example of specific actions that resonate with members and prospective members:

Financial literacy programs: Offering workshops, seminars, or resources to help individuals and businesses better understand financial management fosters a sense of empowerment and positively impacts the perception of Freedom’s efforts.
Supporting local businesses and promoting homeownership: Providing loans and financial services tailored to the needs of the local economy strengthens the community and demonstrates Freedom’s commitment to local growth.
Volunteerism and participation in community events: Beyond financial donations, active engagement through employee volunteerism and hosting community events deepens the connection between Freedom and its members/prospective members.

Freedom’s involvement in the community is far more than just a public relations exercise. It directly influences consumer perceptions, fosters trust and loyalty, strengthens relationships, and plays a crucial role in member satisfaction and long-term success which, in turn, fuels our success and multiplies our ability to give back. Simply put, what we do, how we do it and why we do it matters.

Ten Educators Honored With Freedom Federal Credit Union’s 2025 Golden Apple Awards

Educators from across Harford and Baltimore County/City Were Recognized on August 13

Freedom Federal Credit Union awards grant funds to its 2025 Golden Apple Annual Education Award recipients (L to R): Rhea Butler, Julia Bailey, Michelle Curry, Mike Homishak, Jessica Todd representing Lisa Brown, Tara Recor, Melissa Berardelli, Amanda Coyne representing Lindsey Gilmour, Melissa Adler representing Taylor Herring, and Jim Renaud.

August 19, 2025 – Freedom Federal Credit Union honored ten local educators at its 14th annual Golden Apple Awards reception, held at Mountain Branch Grill & Pub in Joppa, Maryland on Wednesday, August 13. Established in 2011, the Golden Apple Awards provide grants to help educators bring innovative classroom and schoolwide initiatives to life and enhance student learning.

This year marked the first time the program expanded beyond Harford and Baltimore Counties to include educators from Baltimore City. Freedom also increased the number of grants awarded, presenting ten awards totaling $10,000: two at $2,000, four at $1,000, and four at $500.

The top $2,000 awards went to educators using podcasting technology to give students new ways to learn and lead. Tara Recor of Prospect Mill and Emmorton Elementary Schools in Harford County will implement podcast-powered “learning walks,” blending physical activity with academic enrichment. Taylor Herring of Chesapeake Terrace Elementary in Baltimore County is launching a student-led podcast that will build confidence, communication skills, and leadership opportunities across her school community.

At the $1,000 level, educators are focusing on STEM innovation and sustainability. Jim Renaud of Western Tech High School in Baltimore County will expand engineering opportunities to spark creativity and confidence in his students. Mike Homishak of Aberdeen High School in Harford County gained support for his two newly launched electives in Bacteriology and Zoology, allowing students to experience college-level science in high school. At Edgewood Elementary, Lisa Brown will create both a mobile Makerspace cart and a permanent Media Center station, bringing hands-on STEM to every student in her school. And in Baltimore City, Julia Bailey of Darchei Noam Montessori is co-leading a schoolwide environmental sustainability program that brings science and horticulture to life.

Finally, the $500 awardees are tackling innovative ways to support the whole child and connect learning beyond the classroom. In Baltimore City, Rhea Butler of Success Academy West will establish a calming Wholeness Room to give students and staff a safe space to recharge emotionally. Melissa Berardelli of C. Milton Wright High School in Harford County is bridging algebra with the real world, using motion analysis and data science to show the power of math in everyday life. At Hall’s Cross Roads Elementary in Harford County, Lindsey Gilmour is creating take-home learning kits to empower IEP students and strengthen school-to-home partnerships. And at Patterson Mill High School, Michelle Curry is building a more tactile and engaging pre-school space where her students can gain hands-on experience in early childhood education.

“Each of these educators has taken a bold idea and transformed it into an opportunity to inspire, empower, and support their students,” said Mike MacPherson, President and CEO of Freedom Federal Credit Union. “For fourteen years, the Golden Apple Awards have been a way to give back to the people who dedicate their lives to shaping our communities’ future, and we are proud to continue growing this program.”

The program opened with remarks from Councilman David Marks of Baltimore County, a strong advocate for the awards since their expansion into his community. “As an educator and as a Councilman, I know that partnerships are key to achieving academic success. Just as teachers need to build partnerships with parents to help students, schools need partnerships with the private sector to often get things done,” Marks shared. “Freedom Federal Credit Union deserves a Gold Star for its outstanding support of our teachers and schools.”

Closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Eric Davis, Deputy Superintendent for Operations at Harford County Public Schools, who spoke about the essential partnership between HCPS and Freedom Federal Credit Union. “Freedom Federal Credit Union continues to be an extraordinary partner to Harford County Public Schools,” said Dr. Davis. “They go above and beyond for our staff and students, consistently stepping up whenever there is a need. The Golden Apple Awards are just one example of how Freedom helps spark innovation and encourages educators to dream bigger for their students. We are deeply grateful for Freedom’s ongoing investment in the people who make the greatest difference in our schools.”

Freedom also recognized key partners, including Clever Cat Marketing for the event’s centerpieces, and Comcast and The Maryland Ad Network for helping to promote the program to schools and educators across the region.

In addition to the guest speakers, Freedom was honored to bring together many special guests including the awardees, their families, school administrators, and HCPS Teacher of the Year, Shelby Hultquist, and several members of local government and the HCPS Board of Education.

The annual awards are intended to support Freedom Federal Credit Union members who are employed at a Harford County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, or Carroll County school and have a creative vision for education that can only be met with community support. All applicants were asked to submit an essay demonstrating how their idea would serve their students, class, school, or their local community. To apply for a Golden Apple Award or learn more about the other benefits for educators offered by Freedom, visit freedomfcu.org/golden-apple/.

About Freedom Federal Credit Union

Freedom Federal Credit Union is a community-chartered federal credit union offering business banking services and consumer financial services to those who live, work, volunteer, worship, attend school, or have family in Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, and Harford County. Freedom was founded in 1953 and currently has eight locations throughout Harford and Baltimore Counties. To learn more, visit freedomfcu.org.

About Baltimore County Public Schools

Baltimore County Public Schools, the nation’s 22nd largest school system, is focused on raising the bar and closing gaps to prepare our students for the future. Thanks to innovative and talented leaders, teachers, staff, and students, BCPS celebrates many honors.

About Harford County Public Schools

The mission of Harford County Public Schools is that each student will attain academic and personal success in a safe and caring environment that honors the diversity of our students and staff. The vision of the Board of Education of Harford County is to inspire and prepare each student to achieve success in college and career.

Spring Mortgage Days

Get a free onsite mortgage consultation with Freedom’s Mortgage experts! These one-on-one discussions will give you a:

Custom mortgage analysis
Step-by-step guide to the mortgage process
Explanation of your home equity options
Free, easy mortgage prequalification

Stop by the branch most convenient to you – timed appointments are available, but not necessary. We’re excited to talk with you!

Mortgage Days Schedule:

June 3, honeygo

Perry Hall Branch
5000 Honeygo Center Drive, Perry Hall, MD

REGISTER

June 5, Edgewood

APG South Branch
8213 Hoadley Road, Gunpowder, MD

REGISTER

June 10, hunt valley

40 Schilling Rd, Hunt Valley, MD

REGISTER

June 12, PIKESVILLE

1809 Reisterstown Road, Suite 151 Pikesville, MD

REGISTER

What’s In a Name?

One of the harder things about our merger—and the time it will take to finalize—is the occasional need to refer to one credit union or another by name as a separate entity when we are really one. Yes, certain systems and aspects cannot be completely transitioned until year end, but the mere reference of two names, at times, feels like it drives a wedge between us.

I also recognize for the members and team of (taking my lead from Prince) “The Credit Union Formerly Known as AFFCU,” this can be confusing because the impact is more significant, the change more tangible. Despite how good the change or how it will benefit everyone long term, not truly being “complete” can be a tad unnerving and may cause uncertainty or anxiety.

It’s important, therefore, to stress that we are, without question, all Freedom. We are, therefore, working hard and fast to bring as much together as possible to alleviate concerns.

It’s also important to realize that it’s not the name alone that defines us. Yes, a business needs a legal name to operate under, a name with which to build a brand and reputation. However, it’s what we do that makes our name. It’s how we serve our members, support the community and provide for our team members so they can, in turn, serve and support.

It is our words, actions, and deeds that matter most. So, as we grapple with the bits that create a temporary separation, let’s focus on what unites us: that we’re all in this together, that we share the same goal, that we are “one Freedom.”

Life Through A Lens

I recently came across my old camcorder and video cassettes from the 90’s. There were videos of family (with some long passed), vacations, sports, birthdays and so on. As I watched hours and hours of footage over several days, I couldn’t help but wonder how present I was in all that time. Sure, I was capturing the moment, but was I in that moment experiencing the joy and wonder around me?

At the time you think you’re documenting something for posterity, something you’ll look at over and over to relive the experience, but do you? Do the emotions you feel as you rewatch moments of your life and life around you compare to what you felt, or could have felt, as things happened? I pondered this question and wondered if so much time living life through a lens was worth the recordings that have gathered dust for 30 years over what I may have missed if I was more invested in the moments that will never come again.

Today, like everyone else, I have a smart phone. Gone is the camcorder replaced by the ability to take a picture, record a moment and share it immediately with the world if so inclined.

The equipment has changed, but the danger, because of the ease and immediacy, is greater. I, unlike so many that are glued to their screen who can’t seem to experience anything without full documentation, have the benefit of hindsight from a different time. I now know how to snap a quick pic or record a 10 second guitar riff, versus record for an hour only occasionally looking up. I have learned that seeing it with my eyes, experiencing it, and remembering it, is more fulfilling and long lasting because if I do that then when viewed years from now, a single picture or brief clip will bring back that moment in a more meaningful way versus watching a long recording where you can hear your son in the background calling your name repeatedly and saying “watch me dad”.

At Freedom, we often talk about what’s truly important – family, community, meaningful connections and partnerships. So, no matter what you’re doing, revel in your time with others, share moments that matter, and if you choose to memorialize them remember, less is more. Don’t let your experiences be dependent on what or how much you can see or capture through a lens. The best memories aren’t the ones we record; they’re the ones we feel.

Golden Apple Educator Awards – 2025

We are now accepting entries for this year’s Golden Apple Educator Award!

Entrants must be a current Freedom FCU or Atlantic Financial FCU Member* and an employee at a Harford County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, or Carroll County school (public or private, PreK-12th).

now FEATURING

TWO $2,000 Awards – FOUR $1,000 Awards – FOUR $500 Awards

To enter, submit an entry form and essay. The essay must describe how you would use the funds and why you should be selected for an award! Scoring favors proposals demonstrating the greatest impact on local schools, classes, students, and/or the community at large.

Freedom Federal Credit Union has once again increased the number of grant awards available, and is pleased to offer TEN Annual Educator Awards ranging from $500 up to $2,000. Eligible applicants are Education Employees who may be a deserving teacher, school administrator or school support employee from a Harford County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, or Carroll County school.

Scoring favors submissions with the greatest impact and creativity with a strong preference for ideas/initiatives that are sustainable over multiple years.

.TO ENTER: Complete the entry form and submit an essay that demonstrates the significance of your idea or initiative and how it will be beneficial. Your essay may address any or all of the following questions:

What is your creative idea or initiative to benefit your students, your class, or your school? If you win this award, how will you make it happen using the funds from this award?
How will your idea or initiative support or improve the learning experience of your students or benefit your classroom or school overall?
Will your idea or initiative benefit the overall community? If yes, how so?

Please submit your Golden Apple – 2025 Educator Award Entry Form and essay to enter@freedomfcu.org by May 31, 2025.

All entries will be reviewed by a panel of judges made up of Freedom employees, volunteers and community partners.

Entry deadline is May 31, 2025
Submit by email to enter@freedomfcu.org
We will contact award recipients by June 20, 2025

LEARN ABOUT THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS OFFERED TO OUR EDUCATORS- EXPLORE THE REST OF THE GOLDEN APPLE PROGRAM!

*New members are also welcome to apply! Educators that are members of Atlantic Financial FCU are now apart of our Freedom FCU family and are also welcome to apply.

Read About Past Golden Apple Awardees**

2024 Recipients
2023 Recipients
2022 Recipients
2021 Recipients
2020 Recipients
2019 Recipients

**Previous awardees must skip a year between submissions.

‘Twas Just Before Christmas

‘Twas just before Christmas and oh what a year
With changes a plenty, we move forward without fear;
The mission was set for a new beginning to start
And a time for each of us to play an important part.

The staff were all nestled tight in their chairs,
With goals to be met hanging high in the air;
And me in my office with bright Christmas tie,
Had just settled in knowing year end was nigh,

When out in the branch there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from my chair to see what was the matter.
Out through the door and to the railing I took
Then I leaned way over to get a good look.

The lights in the lobby and those on the tree
Gave a glow to the people and to all I could see,
When what, in amazement, should I finally spot,
But a sleigh and some reindeer out in the lot,

And a little old man running up to a teller,
That I just knew was dear Santa that jolly fat fella.
Faster than a cheetah to the line he did scurry,
And he appeared to be in a terrible hurry.

“Please help me, oh help me!” I heard him yell out
”I need some assistance,” he continued to shout.
“I’m short on supplies and my cash is depleted”
“I don’t know what to do and I’m feeling defeated.”

As I heard his plea I knew just what to do
But before I could blink into action staff flew.
To an FSR station he was gently escorted,
And a loan application taken so his problems be thwarted.

Then, in a twinkling, lending staff took the lead
And approved an amount that met all of his needs.
He was also provided other services like access online,
That made his life simpler and gave peace of mind.

His eyes started twinkling, his laugh grew quite merry
His cheeks got all rosy and his nose like a cherry;
He jumped to his feet and starting dancing around
And he ran through the branch with a leap and a bound.

“You’ve saved Christmas”, he shouted, “and not just for me,”
“But for everyone everywhere, just wait and you’ll see.”
I can restock supplies that have been so diminished
So the elves can be paid and the toys all get finished.

“But well beyond that, what means most to me,
Is you treated me with kindness, the way I wanted to be.
You asked about my needs and gave me just what was right
To ensure the success of my Christmas time flight.”

“It’s not always what you say or what it is that you do,
But the way you make a person feel that really shines through.”
He thanked everyone and rushed out to his sleigh
And said one more thing as he went on his way.

“Remember”, he bellowed, “it’s the experience folks remember”
“Don’t limit that to today or the month of December”.
Then we heard him exclaim, as he went out of sight,
“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night.”