Keesler FCU Honors First Responders at Awards Ceremony
The 11th annual event at IP Casino in Biloxi also raised over $122,000 for YMCA programs.
Updated on Nov. 13, 2026 in Philanthropy
Keesler Federal Credit Union held its 11th annual first responder awards ceremony at the IP Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi, on Thursday. Awards honored police officers, firefighters and emergency medical teams from Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama.
Why it matters
The event raised more than $122,000 for YMCA programs, with funds set to support scholarships for people who cannot afford YMCA programs. The ceremony combined recognition of first responders with community fundraising through a silent auction and partner participation.
The 11th annual ceremony raised more than $122,000 for YMCA programs, according to the event's reported total. The figure does not include a prior-year comparison, and the source does not specify how the funds will be allocated across scholarships.
The players
Keesler Federal Credit Union
A credit union that organized the annual first responder awards ceremony and its fundraising for YMCA programs.
Bobby Hebert
A former NFL quarterback and sports broadcaster who attended the awards event.
YMCA
A nonprofit youth and community organization whose programs received the funds raised at the ceremony.
The details
The awards were presented at a ceremony that included a silent auction and participation from corporate and community partners. Bobby Hebert attended the event, which honored police officers, firefighters and emergency medical teams.
Timeline
Thursday, November 12, 2026: 11th annual first responder awards ceremony held at IP Casino in Biloxi.
Season Trajectory
This 11th annual ceremony continues a recurring tradition by Keesler Federal Credit Union that has run for more than a decade. Its growth in scope across Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama reflects a regional philanthropic effort rather than a one-time event.
Families who cannot afford YMCA programs may be eligible for the scholarships funded by this year's total. Residents of Biloxi and surrounding Gulf Coast communities can look to the YMCA for participation details.
The takeaway
Local philanthropy events like this one combine public recognition of first responders with direct funding for community programs. Residents interested in similar giving can seek out local credit unions and nonprofits that host recurring fundraisers.
Further reading
Explore more local giving stories in Philanthropy.
