ROME, NY – APRIL 2, 2026: The AmeriCU Charitable Foundation recently visited Madison-Oneida BOCES to share 360 books with students as part of the “One School, One Book” initiative. AmeriCU volunteers spent their visit reading with students and personally handing out a book to each child.
The event gave students a chance to explore new stories and connect with volunteers from AmeriCU. Sammy the Star, AmeriCU’s mascot, joined the fun, making the day even more memorable. The activity highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to educational literacy, one of its four key pillars, while bringing excitement and fun to the school.
“It was a wonderful experience to see AmeriCU staff personally deliver the books, read alongside the students, and share special moments with Sammy the Star. The joy on the children’s faces made the day unforgettable for everyone involved,” said Vanessa Szwejbka, Executive Director of the AmeriCU Charitable Foundation. 
The “One School, One Book” initiative brings students together through a shared reading experience. A single book is selected for the entire school, with each student receiving a copy. Teachers and staff coordinate classroom discussions and activities, creating opportunities for connection among students, educators, and families.
“Thank you for doing this for our kids. For many of them, these kinds of experiences don’t happen often outside of school,” shared Dr. Amanda Hopkins, Elementary Programs Director at Madison-Oneida BOCES. “Moments like this, connecting with new people, being part of something joyful, are more important than we sometimes realize for our students.”
Through initiatives like this, the AmeriCU Charitable Foundation continues to support education, foster community engagement, and inspire a love of learning across New York State. To learn more about the AmeriCU Charitable Foundation or to donate, visit https://www.americu.org/
About AmeriCU Credit Union
As a credit union, AmeriCU is a not-for-profit financial institution owned by our members. Serving 24 counties in New York and beyond, AmeriCU provides you with all the products and services you need – often with low or no fees, and better rates. AmeriCU has grown to serve more than 200,000 members, 25 financial centers, and $3 billion in assets, while remaining dedicated to building meaningful connections with members and supporting the various local communities it serves. AmeriCU is headquartered in Rome, New York, and is among the State’s largest, full-service financial cooperatives. For more information, visit www.AmeriCU.org. Equal Housing Lender – Federally Insured by NCUA – Membership Eligibility Required.
