Penn East FCU Launches the Milinda Project in Honor of Late Employee
Information provided by Penn East FCU
Penn East Federal Credit Union (FCU) has announced the launch of the Milinda Project, a fundraising initiative in honor of Milinda Catalano, a beloved employee who passed away unexpectedly in February 2024. This project aims to support two causes close to Milinda’s heart: animal rescue and first responders.
Milinda Catalano, who worked in the Call Center, was known for her boundless positivity and kindness. At only 34 years old, her sudden passing was a tremendous loss to the Penn East FCU family and the broader community. Milinda was celebrated for her unwavering cheerfulness, often brightening her colleagues’ days with her radiant smile and the heartfelt phrase, “I APPRECIATE YOU!”
Following her passing, Penn East FCU’s CEO, Marie Beggin, felt compelled to honor Milinda’s memory in a meaningful way. “Milinda was a huge inspiration to me and shaped the kind of CEO I aspire to be,” said Beggin. “Her legacy taught me that leadership can be full of empathy, compassion, and kindness, as well as daily appreciation.”
Launched in April 2024, the Milinda Project focuses on supporting local “no-kill” animal shelters and recognizing first responders. Despite not having children, Milinda cherished her pets, Shamrock and Clover, and deeply loved her husband, Gus, a first responder who also passed away recently.
The first initiative under the Milinda Project is a fundraising drive to benefit local “no-kill” animal shelters. Penn East employees have already raised nearly $2,500 through internal efforts. Contributions are being accepted until August 31st, as the total amount will be presented to the shelters at the end of September. Additionally, the Milinda Project EMT First Responder initiative will be launching this fall.
“If anyone would like to contribute to our animal rescue fundraiser in Milinda’s honor, please let us know. Anything you can give would be greatly appreciated,” Beggin added. Contributions can be made by sending a check to:
Penn East Federal Credit Union
851 Commerce Boulevard Dickson City, PA 18519
Attention: Marie Beggin
Please send any donation checks no later than August 31st, as we will present our total amount to the shelters at the end of September.
Milinda’s enduring message of “I APPRECIATE YOU” has now become a part of the daily vernacular at Penn East FCU, inspiring others to embrace the same spirit of gratitude and positivity that she embodied.