Proof Bread, Alhambra Credit Union pay it forward with pastries

Honestly, at the end of the day it’s about helping people in our community.”

Sonia Cardona, Alhambra Credit Union vice president of operations

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Community spirit came with a flaky crust Oct. 13 as Proof Bread and Alhambra Credit Union teamed up to treat Litchfield Park customers during Pay It Forward Day.

Alhambra sponsored a giveaway of miniature pastries from the bakery as part of the fourth annual Arizona Credit Union Week, which brought together 18 credit unions to support local businesses, nonprofits and financial education.

For these partners, the connection started just a few doors apart.

Jamie Pruett, Proof Bread’s culinary director, said Alhambra employees first stopped by for pastries.

“It was kind of love at first bite,” Pruett said.

The credit union’s focus on its surrounding community made the collaboration a natural fit, he said.

Sonia Cardona, Alhambra’s vice president of operations, said the neighboring businesses had built a relationship by supporting each other. The giveaway offered a way to share that connection with customers.

“Honestly, at the end of the day it’s about helping people in our community,” Cardona said.

The miniature pastries showcased Proof’s sourdough baking process. Pruett said the bakery uses a natural leavening process rather than commercial yeast.

“Sourdough is a technique, not a flavor,” he said.

The partnership extended beyond the bakery counter. Alhambra also arranged to offer Proof pastries at its credit union offices, introducing members to the bakery while giving the neighboring business another opportunity to reach new customers.

Alhambra's community partnerships also extend to local schools and neighborhood events.

“A lot of what we do is financial education,” CEO Eddie Moraga said, describing programs that help students understand everyday expenses before entering adulthood.

In Litchfield Park, Pruett hopes the partnership introduces more West Valley residents to Proof. The bakery has begun participating in area farmers markets and is exploring additional collaborations.

“We’re always on the lookout for other opportunities to collaborate with other businesses in the area,” he said.

Noah Flug
Reporter | Litchfield Park and Goodyear

nflug@iniusa.org

Community: Litchfield Park and Goodyear

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication with a minor in Digital Audiences from Arizona State University

Random Fact: I only have one biological cousin.

Hobbies: Watching movies and TV, spending time with my friends, aspiring stoic.