Giving Big
Member Volunteer Program
Ready to make your mark? Join our Member Volunteer Program, log your hours below, and you could be our Volunteer of the Quarter. We’ll even donate $1,000 to your favorite nonprofit in your honor. Let’s Give Big together!
Volunteer of the Quarter: Thornell Billingslea
Thornell Billingslea, a Community Choice member, has dedicated his time and effort to the West Michigan Veterans Assistance Program (WMVAP), where he serves as Vice President. Chosen as part of the Member Volunteer Program, Thornell is a shining example of how giving back to the community can create a lasting impact. His dedication and participation in the program resulted in a $1,000 donation to WMVAP in his honor.
Thornell’s journey with WMVAP began in 2007. With a history of three Purple Hearts and a deep appreciation for the support he received from the Veterans Affairs (VA), Thornell felt it was his turn to assist other veterans facing challenges. “The VA helped me, so I wanted to give back,” he shared, reflecting on his motivation.
Through his role, Thornell helps to coordinate monthly assistance events from Grand Rapids to Muskegon. Alongside WMVAP, he supports veterans with food, rent assistance, and essential items. Yet, he notes the challenge of keeping their store stocked, as resources are limited. “We could use more donations to keep our doors open more and reach more veterans,” he explains.
One of Thornell’s most memorable experiences while volunteering was helping a veteran with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) secure an apartment and support services, providing stability after years of hardship. Thornell recalled, “Seeing that veteran settle into his home after all he had been through was powerful. It showed me how important our work at WMVAP is.”
Community Choice Credit Union’s commitment to local service aligns closely with Thornell’s values. “Their focus on helping communities reminds me of why I volunteer,” he said. Thornell hopes to encourage others to volunteer, seek out opportunities, and Give Big in areas they find inspirational.
Volunteer Opportunities
Community Choice Members who volunteer in our communities are encouraged to let us know how they are making a difference.
By logging hours, members may receive an occasional email about new volunteer opportunities or learn how other members are making a difference giving back. We will also make a $1,000 donation every quarter to a nonprofit in the community to honor the volunteer work that one of our members is doing. This program is for members only, is not a raffle, drawing, sweepstake, or grant application, and is subject to change at any time.
How to volunteer
We know our members are already Giving Big in our communities. If you are looking for additional opportunities to make a difference, we encourage you to reach out to a local nonprofit organization to see if they need assistance. Some nonprofits that need help are listed at MichiganVolunteers.org. To see what opportunity that Community Choice is involved with, follow us on social media or reach out to our volunteer coordinator, Kelsey Royer.
Submit your volunteer hours
Submitting volunteer hours is easy! Hours can be submitted here:
Give BIG Month!
Thank you to all our members and team members who came together and gave BIG in our communities!
This September we volunteered 1813 hours and impacted 130+ organizations.
All year long we strive to better our communities and connect with our neighbors. See below to learn how you can join us!
Inspired to give back?
Our annual Back-to-School Bash is held every August to ensure students across Michigan are prepared for the new school year!
Your support can directly impact a child’s life and give them the confidence they need to be prepared for school. Let’s unite to make education a celebration!
We’re proud to #GiveBig
Whether we’re filling backpacks, volunteering locally, or helping students reach new heights, we do it all for our communities.