May 9, 2025Paws and Purpose: PEFCU Associate Honored for Community Service

At PEFCU, our associates are more than just dedicated professionals serving our members’ financial needs—they’re also passionate individuals who make a difference in their communities. One shining example is Emily Driskell, a Member Contact Center Representative, who was recently honored with PEFCU’s  Service to Community Award for her outstanding volunteer work and compassionate spirit.  

Emily’s commitment to giving back started early. Her first job was at a retirement home, where she found herself returning on her days off to call Bingo, assist with events, and simply spend time with the residents. Growing up without living grandparents, Emily found deep personal meaning in these connections, which sparked a lasting passion for volunteering with the elderly. 

But what makes Emily’s story even more special? Her four-legged partner in service: Louis, a senior rescue dog with a big heart (and personality).

Shortly after moving to Texas, Emily and her husband discovered Austin Bulldog Rescue while searching for an English Bulldog to adopt. When the organization contacted them about a senior French Bulldog with a spunky personality, they knew he was the perfect match. Louis joined their family—and quickly made himself at home. 

As a remote associate, Emily gets to spend the majority of her days with Louis. “He sleeps about 80% of the day,” she joked, “but during that other 20%, he’s at my feet, listening and watching. He’s been dubbed the PEFCU ‘Snoop-ervisor.’ I keep looking down when I talk about him because he’s always right here beside me.”

When Emily began volunteering with a hospice organization in Texas, she noticed how much Louis hated being left behind. One day, while chatting with the volunteer coordinator, she casually mentioned, “I wish I could just bring him with me.” The coordinator’s response? “Why don’t you?” 

From that moment on, Louis became her official volunteer sidekick. 

What began as a few quiet visits during office tasks quickly turned into something much more meaningful. Louis, 10 years old and lovingly referred to as a “senior citizen” himself, quickly bonded with the residents. “The residents seem to resonate with him,” said Emily. “He’s in retirement, just like many of them. I think the visits are just as fun for him as they are for the people we visit.” 

On any given day, Louis might be spotted trotting from room to room, soaking up attention in the common areas, or showing off outside. His presence sparks joy, encourages conversation, and brings warmth and comfort to those who need it most.

For Emily, the most rewarding part of volunteering is forming real connections—getting to know people, hearing their stories, and sharing laughs. She fondly recalled one visit with a 102-year-old resident whose family was especially grateful for her and Louis’s presence. On the resident’s final day, Emily sat with the family, swapping stories, laughing about Louis, and remembering the resident’s favorite jokes. 

“She spent her final day hearing beautiful stories about herself and laughing,” Emily shared. “And her family got to hear how loved she was during such a difficult time.” 

Emily acknowledges that hospice work can be emotionally challenging. “It’s a time that’s often uncomfortable and hard—but that’s also when people need you the most.” Whether residents are laughing at Louis’s quirks or finding peace in a quiet moment, Emily and Louis bring comfort when it’s needed most. 

As part of the Service to Community Award, Emily was given the opportunity to donate to the charity of her choice on PEFCU’s behalf. Without hesitation, she chose Austin Bulldog Rescue—the organization that brought Louis into her life and continues to give countless dogs a second chance. 

“Austin Bulldog Rescue is so easy to support,” said Emily. “Everyone there is incredibly passionate and thorough. They even conducted a home interview before we adopted Louis to make sure we were well-prepared.” 

It’s evident that Emily has a heart for others and volunteering comes naturally to her but making that leap to get started doing something new can be scary. She encourages others who are considering volunteering to take that first step. “Just do it,” she says. “Getting started is the hardest part. From there, it only gets easier.” 

We’re proud to celebrate Emily—not just for receiving the Service to Community Award, but for the daily impact she and Louis make in the lives of others. Their journey together is a testament to the power of compassion, connection, and community.  

Congratulations, Emily, and thank you for being an inspiration to your PEFCU family and members! 

 

 

Katie began her career with Publix Employees Federal Credit Union in March 2025, after nearly a decade of experience with Publix Super Markets, Inc. Joining the PEFCU team has allowed her to continue her passion for philanthropy, marketing events, and community engagement. Some of Katie’s favorite non-profits are ViSTE, the Florida Children’s Museum, and SPCA. Aside from her work, she loves being on the boat with her husband, creating floral arrangements, attending Gator games, enjoying her “mini ranch” (thanks to PEFCU for the land loan!), and spending time with her friends and family. Katie is looking forward to representing PEFCU in the community while fostering lasting partnerships with the non-profits that span our footprint.