First Source Federal Credit Union Commits $100,000 to ICAN’s New Family Resource Center and Children’s Museum

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First Source has been a hands on partner, supporting both ICAN and the Utica Children’s Museum in a multitude of ways for over a decade – from signature fundraising events like golf tournaments and the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Drive to hosting Financial Fridays and sponsoring school breaks at the Children’s Museum. Their kid-friendly “branch” was a sought after destination at the museum’s Main Street exhibit for many years. In addition, First Source and their employees have directly helped hundreds of families have a brighter holiday through ICAN’s annual Adopt A Family effort. Supporting the new Family Resource Center is the next chapter in this longtime relationship.

“ICAN has proven themselves as a forward-thinking organization, committed to services that yield positive results and progress in our community,” said Tom Neumann, President/CEO of First Source. “This project encompasses children and families, education, economic development and revitalization, serving the underserved, mental health and recreational services, as well as collaboration with multiple entities. It is for this reason we have committed at this level with ICAN and the Children’s Museum. Often, we give smaller funding amounts to many causes. This was an opportunity to offer one larger amount that covers multiple areas and needs benefitting our whole community. We are thrilled to be able to assist and contribute to this project.”

The $100,000 gift contributes to the overall project total of $14 million, which includes site improvements, museum exhibit design and the addition of a rotunda—a signature architectural element on the south side of the building at 106 Memorial Parkway, Utica. 

ICAN CEO/Executive Director Steve Bulger adds, “First Source has truly elevated their support with this generous gift, and it is a lasting investment for children and families throughout our region and beyond. The impact of their contribution and this project will span generations.”

The Family Resource Center will unite two of our region’s greatest assets: ICAN’s youth and family programs and the Utica Children’s Museum. A hub for learning, wellness, connectedness and FUN, this will be the first time that a children’s museum is co-located and partnered with a human services non-profit.

October 2021: Project groundbreaking 

Summer 2022: ICAN opens Family Resource Center for services

End of 2023: Grand Opening of the new Children’s Museum 

ICAN programs such as Supervised Visitation, Healthy Families and Nurturing Parenting will be housed at the new Family Resource Center, all of which will utilize the museum space for family bonding, confidence building and ultimately for making families stronger. Select ICAN administrative departments will also be housed at the new location.

The new museum will be located on the second floor and in the rotunda of the Family Resource Center. It will provide a space and be a catalyst for post-pandemic healing for all and will offer needed socialization, connection and joy as well as hands-on educational experiences aligned with school curricula to help students get back on track after an extended loss of learning. Close to the Parkway Recreational Center, Val Bialas Ski Center, Utica Zoo and the John S. Dyson New York Energy Zone, the museum will enhance this family-friendly district of the city.

Regional and national experts are assisting with the project from architecture and conceptualization to creation of museum exhibits and ensuring Universal Design principles are integrated.  

First Source Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution, serving Members and the community since 1938. Originally founded as Utica Teachers Federal Credit Union, the name changed to First Source in 1992 to better reflect their broad and diverse membership. They provide financial solutions with a personal approach, to build meaningful relationships with their Members. First Source strives to help their Members make smart financial decisions and help their community grow and thrive. They serve over 55,000 Members with current locations in New Hartford, South Utica, North Utica, Herkimer, Rome and Downtown Utica; a Member Care Contact Center, and Online & Mobile banking. Their Members have access to Interactive ATMs and over 30,000 nationwide surcharge-free ATMs. Connect with First Source and learn more at fsource.org, through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.