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Credit union gives back to ‘Operation Giving Back’

ENCINITAS — Operation Giving Back has been working since 2008 to help active duty military and veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder overcome their affliction.

Today, Navy Federal Credit Union gave back to the nonprofit.

The financial institution celebrated the grand opening of a branch on North El Camino Real by presenting a $1,000 check to Operation Giving Back, whose founder and director was on hand to accept the donation.

“I am very happy to be part of Encinitas,” said Danielle Chavalarias, who said her services help veterans to “retrain their brain,” using a system known as NeuroOptimal Neurofeedback, as well as 20 counseling sessions.

Chavalarias said the treatment and therapy has helped hundreds of local veterans them to be fully reintegrated into civilian life.

“We believe it not only helps our soldiers but it provides a benefit to society as well,” she said.

Representatives of the Virginia-based financial institution said they came to the local Chamber of Commerce to help identify a nonprofit or charity that shares a common mission or goal as them.

“It is important for us to be part of the community, and our leadership team was very thoughtful in identifying an organization that does what we do, serving the community of those who have served us,” said Carrie Hill, the credit union’s regional manager. “Operation Giving Back is committed to helping our veterans, as we are, so we were extremely excited to have the opportunity to thank them for their service.”

The new branch, the 255th nationwide location, is located at 260 North El Camino Real, Suite D.