ēCO Credit Union has a strong commitment to the communities where our members live, work and play. Through the #eCOmmunity program, we are proud to recognize people and community groups who go above and beyond for their community. Each month in 2020, members of the community who embody the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People” will be nominated by ēCO employees to be “Credit Unioned.”
Trisha Bowman, Clay Branch Manager, nominated Mr. Van Phillips as the first person to be “Credit Unioned.” Bowman nominated Phillips because he goes above and beyond his call of duty to serve those around him. She said, “Van Phillips has always been a strong leader and source of stability in the lives of others. We appreciate not only his support of ēCO, but his impact on our community.” Phillips has served in education for 36 years and been an ēCO Credit Union member for over 30 years.
In an article from the Trussville Tribune in October of 2019, Principal Phillips said, “I’m a drum major for social justice change and educational and economic empowerment to communities that have not had a good lead up on life. It’s been my gift from God to try to move communities that are not where they want to be.”
On January 29, ēCO Credit Union employees stopped by Center Point High School with treats to surprise Phillips and to thank him for his outstanding dedication to the city of Center Point and surrounding areas. During the visit, it was easy to see that Principal Phillips is always thinking of others. Once surprised with doughnuts for his faculty and staff, he sprang into action to also provide coffee, juice, and fruit.
Center Point High School Office Manager, Demetria McCarroll said, “Mr. Phillips goes well beyond his duty of being a principal. He extends himself to help not only our students with issues outside of the classroom, but he helps people from all walks of life. The grace, mercy, kindness, and forgiveness that he gives to people very much reflects his relationship with Christ, thus making him an asset to the City of Center Point.”
ēCO Credit Union is proud to call Mr. Van Phillips a member, and we’re grateful for his commitment and investment in his community. Thank you, Principal Phillips for your leadership and dedication to the community!