Support of local food initiative earns recognition
Expree recognized for social responsibility community service
(LOUISVILLE, KY, August 14, 2025) Expree Credit Union has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award from Kentucky’s Credit Unions $50-$250 million asset category. This accolade recognizes credit unions for their outstanding social responsibility efforts and charitable projects that support and uplift their communities.
Expree was recognized for its dedication to building better communities and promoting the well-being of its members through its 2024 partnership with Locals Food Hub & Pizza Pub. This collaboration aimed to provide food access to underserved members of the community by distributing local, nutrient-rich food. The initiative not only supports the region's hard-working food producers but also contributes to a stronger food economy, healthier eating habits, and a healthier community overall.
​With the support of Expree, Locals launched the Expree Triple Dollars program, where 100% of the grocery items available are sourced from Kentucky producers. This program extended the purchasing power for SNAP cardholders already utilizing the Kentucky Double Dollars program. When a SNAP card was used to purchase at least $20 worth of local groceries, they receive $20 in free groceries through the Kentucky Double Dollars program, and an additional $20 in free groceries through the Expree Triple Dollars program. This provided $60 worth of local, nutrient dense food for only $20. This initiative empowered over 230 families with access to quality food, enhancing their quality of life.
This initiative addresses basic needs, promotes equity and inclusiveness, fosters community engagement, supports local economies, enhances social cohesion, and encourages education. The partnership with Expree also included free grocery box distributions, providing increased reach. Each month, Expree sent employees to assist with the distribution of the grocery boxes, packing and distributing 20-30 boxes of groceries to the community. This hands-on involvement empowers staff to take ownership of the community's well-being and fosters a sense of solidarity and responsibility.
Terrence Dezarn lead the efforts for Expree, assisting with getting volunteers and scheduling times with Locals. "I wanted to be a part of this to show that community service is more than lending a hand – it’s about standing together, connecting, and supporting one another. It was a privilege to help, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to do so," Dezarn expressed.
The project also supports the local economy by contributing to the more than $1 million generated by Locals to local producers. This supports sustainable agricultural practices and builds a resilient local food system benefiting the entire community. The collaboration between Expree Credit Union and Locals Food Hub & Pizza Pub creates opportunities for diverse member interaction, collaboration, and mutual support, further strengthening community bonds.
In addition to addressing food insecurity, the project included an educational component. Participants received financial education materials from Expree's partner, GreenPath, along with opportunities to attend financial workshops. This comprehensive approach ensures community members not only have access to food but also gain valuable financial knowledge.
Expree is committed and passionate about making a positive impact in the community. Expree focuses on building better communities and promoting the well-being of our members-- “people helping people.” Expree's efforts extend beyond financial stability to the well-being of their lives as a whole and building a better future. Partnering with Locals to provide underserved families the opportunity to access fresh, healthy, local food and promote healthier eating habits is perfectly in line with the philosophy of the credit union. Helping combat health issues and establishing a healthier community overall benefits everyone.
The award was presented at the Vision Awards Banquet on Thursday, August 14 at 7:00 p.m. Eastern at The Galt House in Louisville, KY. Expree Credit Union is honored to receive this recognition and remains committed to fostering vibrant, equitable, and sustainable communities through meaningful partnerships and innovative programs.