First Trust Credit Union’s Michigan City branch began partnering with Open Door Adolescent Health Center (ODAHC), located inside Michigan City High School, in April of 2014. Their mission was to raise funds that could be utilized specifically for the prevention of adolescent drug and alcohol abuse.
According to First Trust’s Marketing Director and Charity Committee member, Dorene Martinson, ODAHC is dedicated to providing both physical and mental health services to students within the Michigan City Area School District, and First Trust is committed to doing all they can to help Open Door with the finances it takes to educate teens, and prevent teen substance abuse. ODAHC provides education, support, and counseling to adolescents dealing with issues including substance abuse (alcohol, tobacco, & drugs), teen pregnancy, anger management, suicide, depression, academics, and more.
Martinson said that First Trust’s fundraising efforts thus far have included bake sales, employee casual days, member monetary donations, an on-going employee snack station, and “give-back” fundraisers with local restaurants. The next fundraiser will be a Valentine’s Day candy sale starting on Friday, February 10th. First Trust is inviting everyone to come out to the Michigan City location at 950 E. US Hwy 20 to purchase special treats, and support their community fundraising efforts.