Members 1st Federal Credit Union Caps off 75th Anniversary Year With First-Ever Car Giveaway

Minute Read

Members 1st Federal Credit Union is proud to announce the winner of its first-ever car giveaway, an event that caps off the credit union’s year-long 75th anniversary celebration and largest giveaway ever. Last month, Members 1st invited people to share how a new car could change their life and where it would take them in 2026 and beyond. The giveaway concluded today with a heartfelt presentation at Members 1st's headquarters in Enola.

Julie Hower, a Members 1st member from Gettysburg, was selected from more than 4,000 entries. She received the keys to a brand-new 2025 Honda HR-V Sport Edition. In her entry, Hower stated that a new car would take her family “on a path to health,” and help them return to normalcy in 2026. 

Hower and her young son, Charlie, drive frequently to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, where he is a patient. The nearly 2,000-mile round trip can no longer be made safely in their current vehicle. “A new car will ensure safe and worry-free travels,” Hower stated in her entry. “We hope to go somewhere to celebrate him finishing his trial with honor and bravery, even though he will never be cured.”  

Hower attended today’s event with her husband and two sons. Members 1st associates, leadership and guests were also present to celebrate the occasion and to witness Hower and her family driving off in their new car.  

The car giveaway ran from November 19 to 25. Each entry was read by a committee of Members 1st associates. The stories shared ranged from everyday necessities to life-changing opportunities, reminding the organization how vital reliable transportation can be.  

“Reaching 75 years is really about celebrating the people and the stories that shaped this credit union into what it is today,” said Michael Wilson, President & CEO of Members 1st Federal Credit Union. “This car giveaway has been one of the most meaningful ways for us to say thank you and help someone take a step toward their financial goals. Hearing stories like Julia’s reminds us how powerful those moments can be and why we are so committed to being here for our members through every season of life.” 

As Members 1st concludes its 75th anniversary year, the organization is reflecting on a meaningful year of celebrations, community connection and member appreciation. Throughout 2025, the credit union marked this milestone with special initiatives designed to honor the people that shaped its journey. The car giveaway brought the anniversary year to a heartfelt close by giving back in a memorable and impactful way. 

For more Members 1st news, please visit: https://www.members1st.org/newsroom/ 

About Members 1st Federal Credit Union: 

Celebrating 75 years of service, Members 1st Federal Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution with more than 620,000 members, including nearly 25,000 business members, and $8 billion in assets. With its administrative headquarters in Enola, PA, Members 1st serves its members and communities through its network of nearly 60 branch locations throughout Adams, Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Lycoming, Northampton, Perry and York counties, as well as its robust digital banking and call center channels. As Members 1st honors its 75-year milestone, the organization remains committed to building stronger communities and meaningful relationships. To learn more about Members 1st, visit members1st.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.