April 22, 2025PEFCU Gives Back to the Planet and the Community

At Publix Employees Federal Credit Union, we believe that giving back to our planet is just as important as giving back to our members and communities. Every year on April 22, people around the globe come together to celebrate Earth Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness about environmental protection and inspiring actions that make a difference. At PEFCU, the environment is one of our three main community pillars, and this Earth Day, we took action!

This year, PEFCU marked Earth Day by partnering with Keep Polk County Beautiful for a park clean-up, a hands-on initiative that brought team members together for the day. Associates from different departments within our Lakeland branch rolled up their sleeves, put on gloves, and headed outdoors to help clean and beautify Circle B Bar Reserve, a local 1,267-acre former cattle ranch turned reserve. From picking up litter to cleaning up the reserve’s pollinator garden by removing invasive plants, the day was full of teamwork and purpose. “The clean-up at Circle B with my fellow PEFCU volunteers is only one of many ways that we can make the Earth a happier and healthier place to live,” said Account Servicing Specialist Stephanie Dent, “Individually, we can make an impact; together, we can make a difference.”

To keep the Earth Day spirit growing—literally—each PEFCU branch received special bookmarks that come with recycled biodegradable seed paper. These eco-friendly bookmarks aren’t just for holding your place in a good book, they can be planted in soil to grow wildflowers such as English Daisies, Snap Dragons, and Black Eyed Susans. The bookmarks are a simple way to connect members with sustainability in their everyday lives, while helping to beautify communities and support local pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

At PEFCU, we know that small actions can lead to big change. Whether it’s cleaning up a park, planting wildflowers, or simply raising awareness, every step counts toward a healthier community and planet. PEFCU is proud to support sustainability, and we hope to continue to inspire our members to do the same. Thank you to all the associates who participated, and to our members who share our passion for protecting the Earth. Let’s continue to grow greener—both ecologically and financially—together.

Happy Earth Day from your family at PEFCU!

Have a suggestion for an eco-friendly non-profit you would like to see PEFCU support? Please reach out to me, Katie, at Community@pefcu.com!

 

Katie began her career with Publix Employees Federal Credit Union in March 2025, after nearly a decade of experience with Publix Super Markets, Inc. Joining the PEFCU team has allowed her to continue her passion for philanthropy, marketing events, and community engagement. Some of Katie’s favorite non-profits are ViSTE, the Florida Children’s Museum, and SPCA. Aside from her work, she loves being on the boat with her husband, creating floral arrangements, attending Gator games, enjoying her “mini ranch” (thanks to PEFCU for the land loan!), and spending time with her friends and family. Katie is looking forward to representing PEFCU in the community while fostering lasting partnerships with the non-profits that span our footprint.