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B E S T P L A C E S TO W O R K 2 0 1 8 24 MEDIUM COMPANIES [ 50 - 249 employees ] E s t a b l i s h e d o n t h e University of Maine campus in 1967, University Credit Union is an innovative, full- service financial institution. Employees can always count on a celebration hap- pening somewhere within the organiza- tion, whether it's a work anniversary, birthday, shout-out post on UCU's Good to Great board, year-end accomplishment of company goals, summer parties, em- ployee retreats and more! Simple "Smile" emails to employees brighten their day. Unique benefits include a paid day off for birthdays, work anniversary bonuses, the opportunity to cash out unused PTO, refer- ral bonuses, company-wide bonuses, and a phenomenal benefits and compensation package. UCU offers employees free or discounted tickets to various entertain- ment and sporting events. Also amazing- UCU employees contributed over 1,250 volunteer hours last year. University Credit Union FAME helps businesses grow jobs and families reach higher education goals. Employees are passionate about this mission and share a common vision around the creation of good- paying jobs for Maine residents. This motivates employees to deliver exceptional educational and economic developmental programs. This sense of greater purpose binds the team together and provides inspiration. Employees participate in wellness challenges and receive prizes. Wellness is also promoted through healthy snacks and drinks. Employees enjoy Employee Appreciation Day, random pizza lun- cheons, dress-down Fridays, flexible work scheduling and a monthly kudos program given by the CEO. FAME's charitable giving committee votes an- nually on quarterly projects, then does fund-raising and events to support those charities. Finance Authority of Maine Avesta Housing is a nonprofit organiza- tion grounded in a mission to improve lives and strengthen communities by promoting and providing affordable homes for people in need. They know their mission is only as strong as the people behind it, so they hire the best and strive to create strong teams, meaningful career growth and outstanding work environments. Avesta focuses on the needs and desires of its employees, including six to eight weeks of paid time off, a 6% 401(k) match, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, a leadership training program, employee referral bonuses. Personalized work stations and a calendar full of fun activities keep Avesta employees engaged and passionate. Avesta Housing # 26 CashStar www.famemaine.com www.avestahousing.org www.cashstar.com www.ucu.maine.edu # 24 # 25 CashStar is a seven-time Best Places to Work win- ner. Founded in Portland in 2008, CashStar pioneered the digital gifting space. In August 2017 CashStar was acquired by Blackhawk Network, a global financial technology company and leader in connecting brands and people through branded value solutions. CashStar's talented team, vibrant cul- ture and comprehensive employee ben- efits make it a great company for which to work. Team members are passionate about their work, whether that be software code, building relationships or creating marketing collateral. The company val- ues intelligence, hard work, creativity and fun—and employees celebrate these qualities in a collaborative working en- vironment each day. Benefits and perks include leadership workshops, other formal leadership education, and recognition for outstanding service. # 27 I'm proud to be part of a dedicated and hard-working team that has a passion for improving lives and strengthening communities. We love our work and genuinely enjoy working together. What could be better? – Dana Totman, President & CEO We know that our mission is only as strong as the people behind it. That's why we hire the best and make sure they have the tools necessary to thrive. Our staff is passionate about affordable housing and the positive impact it has on people and communities. AvestaHousing.org/careers