UPS Employees Federal Credit Union recently partnered with the Office of Congresswoman Norma Torres to support the district’s annual Congressional Art Competition — demonstrating the credit union movement’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and youth empowerment.
The Congressional Art Competition, a nationwide high school visual arts program established in 1982, provides students with an opportunity to showcase their creativity on a national stage. Winning artwork is displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year, offering young artists meaningful recognition and exposure.
Sponsored by the Congressional Institute and coordinated by members of Congress, the competition accepts a wide range of 2-D art forms, including painting, photography, and digital media.
For UPS Employees Federal Credit Union, participation in this initiative reflects the core credit union philosophy of people helping people and a strong commitment to the communities they serve. Kimberly Diaz, CEO of UPS Employees, emphasized the importance of investing in local youth.
“Supporting the Congressional Art Competition is a great honor and a meaningful way to give back to our community,” Diaz said. “We’re proud to invest in the creative voices here in Ontario. As a credit union, our philosophy is people helping people, and this is one way we bring that to life — by giving local students a platform to be seen and empowered.”
UPS Employees has also played a longstanding national role in the competition, serving as the official carrier of student artwork for more than 16 years, ensuring submissions from across the country safely reach Washington, D.C. This partnership underscores the broader impact of credit union members and partners in supporting national civic initiatives.
This year’s winning artist, Samantha Hawkins of Ontario High School, earned top honors for her piece “Metamorphosis,” which will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol — representing the talent and creativity of California’s Inland Empire on a national stage.
Through partnerships like this, credit unions continue to demonstrate their unique role in strengthening communities, supporting youth development, and fostering opportunities that extend well beyond financial services.
