GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. — Employees from Redstone Federal Credit Union surprised some local residents here on Tuesday by paying more than $15,000 in utility bills through the Electric and Water Board of Guntersville.
The gesture is part of the Huntsville-based credit union’s “Acts of Brightness” campaign, launched this year to mark Redstone’s 75th anniversary. According to RFCU, since January teams of its employees — “easily spotted in bright blue shirts” — have shown up unannounced across North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, covering gas, groceries, utility bills and back-to-school shopping for residents.
“The Guntersville stop is the latest in a string of similar events in Athens, Smyrna, Murfreesboro, Cullman and Huntsville,” Redstone FCU said. “At a recent stop at Athens Utilities, Brightness crews paid water, electric and gas bills for about 25 families, restored service for some accounts and added credits to others.”
More Than $60K in Support
Redstone reported it has hosted seven events so far this year, helping more than 315 families and contributing over $60,000 in direct support, with additional surprises planned through the end of 2026.
“It was a great surprise. I am super grateful, especially in this economy right now,” Delanie Walker, who received free groceries at an earlier event, said in a statement. “I got meat for my family. I got my kids’ sports drinks, and we got some fun little snacks.”
Added Redstone President and CEO Joe Newberry, “These moments remind us why community matters,” Newberry said. “I truly believe that what we focus on becomes what matters. Through Acts of Brightness, we’re focused on making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”
