Thanks to $50,000 Donation from Member One, Local Nonprofit’s Pre-K Education Program Now Offers Bus Transportation to Support Enrollment, Attendance

Thanks partly to a $50,000 donation from Member One, a division of Virginia Credit Union, Roanoke-based nonprofit Total Action for Progress (TAP) is now offering bus transportation for children participating in TAP’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

Member One joined with TAP for an April 10 event to celebrate the new bus, which will be used daily to transport children to and from the Head Start facility. It will also be used for student field trips.

Member One donated $100,000, half supporting TAP’s transportation initiatives for its Head Start programs and half supporting the nonprofit’s Domestic Violence Services program, which provides safe housing for families fleeing domestic violence.

“TAP identified transportation as a critical need for its Head Start programs, noting that transportation plays a crucial role in both enrollment and attendance. For many low-income, working families, TAP’s Head Start programs represent an important opportunity to prepare kids for school. Unfortunately, transportation can pose a significant challenge for some families,” said Member One Market President Tim Rowe. “But we are so pleased to support our friends at TAP as they work to address that need and proud to see the tremendous impact of our donation in supporting local families and TAP’s vital, community-focused work.”

During the event, Member One’s Community Engagement Coordinator Angela Martin and Financial Education Program Manager Alex Lucas were honored with artwork from Head Start students, received a tour of the new bus, and helped unveil a sponsorship logo for the bus, which notes Member One’s role in making the bus a reality. TAP staff from across Head Start and Domestic Violence Services were present to offer thanks and share the impact of the credit union’s longtime support.

“Member One, a division of Virginia Credit Union, continues to be a true partner in community change,” said Angela Penn, TAP’s President and CEO. “Their generosity has directly supported the safety and well-being of families in crisis while also ensuring our youngest learners can travel safely to and from school. We’re honored to celebrate them during the Week of the Young Child, and as we approach TAP’s 60th birthday, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the power of partnerships that create lasting impact.”

Member One is deeply committed to charitable giving and community engagement. In 2024, the organization donated more than $171,500 to charitable groups, contributed $56,400 to various community organizations, and reached 1,487 individuals through its financial education courses. The organization’s staff also volunteered 670 hours at various local nonprofits and community groups.