Polish National Credit Union Joins Forces with Westfield Technical Academy for Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade

CHICOPEE, MA – the Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) and Westfield Technical Academy joined forces to build the PNCU sponsored, “Kelly’s Pot of Gold” float in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade. The float is dedicated to PNCU President & CEO, James Kelly, who was selected by the Chicopee St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee as Chicopee Parade Marshall. Kelly said, “It is the ultimate honor to participate as Chicopee Parade Marshal. As a Holyoke native, this is something I will remember forever.”

The float name, “Kelly’s Pot of Gold” represents Kelly’s heart of gold. Kelly is someone who leads by example and gives back tenth fold to his employees, the community, schools and local organizations. Kelly has continuously advocated for the development and growth of the surrounding communities in which PNCU serves. Kelly stated, “This could not have been done without the students at Westfield Technical Academy. The hard work and time the students dedicated towards creating a beautiful float helped make PNCU’s presence during the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade known.” The students at Westfield Technical Academy, specifically in the construction technology program, led by Matt Gomes and Brian Roy built the float.

To express PNCU’s gratitude, the credit union donated $2,000 to the Westfield Technical Academy Scholarship Fund in support of its’ students who want to further their education in technical fields. Kelly said, “For all the help they provided, it is only right we thank them properly.  It is also worth noting that we placed 3^rd in the Irish Theme category thanks to those students. Our focus is always to build relationships and Westfield Technical Academy has continuously been a strong community supporter and we are excited to continue our partnership with them.”

Matt Gomes, Westfield Technical Academy Construction Technology Teacher echoed Kelly’s sentiments and said, “We appreciate and value the partnership that has developed between Westfield Technical Academy and the Polish National Credit union. The "Kelly's Pot of Gold” float was a fun and engaging project that allowed our students to showcase their skills in a more creative and artistic way than our usual construction projects. Over the past several years, the Polish National Credit Union has provided ample opportunity and support for the students at our school.”

Westfield Technical Academy Construction Technology students alongside Matt Gomes, Westfield Technical Academy Construction Technology Teacher (top row, center); David Fernandes, VP, Retail at the Polish National Credit Union (top row, third from right); Brian Roy, Westfield Technical Academy Carpentry Teacher (top row, second from right); and Joseph Tremblay, President, Westfield Technical Academy Foundation (top row, far right).

Founded in 1921, Polish National Credit Union provides a full range of financial services to individuals, families and businesses. The organization operates eight Western Mass branches plus a satellite office at Chicopee Comprehensive High School.