The colorful powder may disappear, yet the PACU Foundation's influence endures.

Employees from Piedmont Advantage Credit Union, along with their families, friends, and runners from the area, gave their all at the final Flying Colors Charity 5K and Fun Run to create an unforgettable experience.

Held on June 13 at Forsyth Country Day School in Lewisville, N.C., this year's event surpassed expectations by raising over $30,000 with 186 runners taking part.

Jared Bahena of Lexington, N.C., claimed the top spot in the 5K with a finishing time of 23:06.

"Each year, the event fills me with wonder at the happiness and generosity it generates," said Megan Brooks, the fundraising chair and organizer for the PACU Foundation. "Though the day featured physical activity and fun, it was the sense of togetherness and commitment to aiding those in need that motivated everyone on the course. Closing this event on such a high note fills me with pride."

The Flying Colors Charity Run blends energetic color stations with a community focus, creating a welcoming family event for a worthy purpose. Proceeds aid organizations offering emergency financial support, financial education, and vital services to families in the Triad and Charlotte areas.

Since its start in 2020, the PACU Foundation has focused on assisting residents facing financial challenges. Thanks to dedicated volunteer staff and contributions from PACU members, employees, and vendors, the foundation has donated more than $142,000 to local charities through the end of 2025.

A key boost to the foundation's 2026 fundraising efforts came from a $10,000 charitable grant via Elan Credit Card's Charitable Giving program, plus another $10,000 presented at this year's Flying Colors.

"This recognition highlights the foundation's purpose and the strength of valuable partnerships," said Jean Golden-Rumer, President of the PACU Foundation. "We appreciate Elan's dedication to enabling credit unions to put values into practice for the communities we serve. In this final gifting year, we could not support local charities addressing financial hardship as effectively without Elan's generous gift."

As the charitable arm of Piedmont Advantage Credit Union, which is in a pending merger with Truliant Federal Credit Union, the PACU Foundation will begin closing operations by month-end.

Impact arises not from structure but from people, such as contributing employees, caring members, and supportive communities.

The PACU Foundation thanks everyone for believing in something beyond banking. The generosity of donors and volunteers shows that belonging means more than words. No matter what lies ahead, the influence will keep growing, and that is truly worth holding onto.

"I feel truly honored to have joined the PACU Foundation's path, valuing the memories and connections made with donors, volunteers, and local charities," Golden-Rumer said. "While this may mark the foundation's end, I take pride in the positive difference our work has made in the communities PACU serves. Thank you to every donor and volunteer who worked to improve the lives of colleagues, neighbors, and community members."

About the PACU Foundation

A 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the PACU Foundation promotes charitable giving to support access to financial literacy, education and training, and disaster and emergency assistance for residents overcoming financial hardship throughout the Piedmont Triad and Charlotte communities.

SOURCE Piedmont Advantage Credit Union