2021 Grand Prize Winner Announced

After a few moments of shock and disbelief, a lucky Mansfield woman welcomed the new year today with an extra $49,999.99 in her Neighborhood Credit Union Prize Savings Account, after her name was drawn as the 2021 Grand Prize Winner.

Janice Horton shook her head as Neighborhood Credit Union Senior Vice President Jessie Swendig surprised her with an oversized “check” made out in her name, as Horton walked into the credit union’s Duncanville location. Horton had lived nearby until recently and still likes to see familiar faces.

“I have never won anything in my life,” said Horton, blinking back tears. “I’m speechless, I really am. I know you give away gifts to members, but I never dreamed it could be something like this!”

Neighborhood Credit Union created the Prize Savings Account 15 years ago to help reverse what was the lowest savings rate in U.S. history. The idea was to encourage more people to save money by offering prizes and rewards throughout the year, so members could experience immediate and tangible rewards to help incentivize good savings habits that can reap long-term. The weekly giveaways culminate with the grand prize drawing every New Year’s Day.

Swendig noted Horton’s strong and steady savings habits since she joined the credit union almost exactly 30 years ago, something which improved her chances to win the grand prize since each credit union member gets one chance for every $25 in their Prize Savings account.

“You have to pay yourself,” said Horton, who said that saving has been a lifelong habit instilled by her father. “Even if it’s just a small amount, put some back and always pay yourself first.”

Horton said that before she retired, she was saving almost half of her earnings, with an eye on her retirement years. That planning and saving enabled her to retire earlier than expected during the pandemic in order to help her elderly parents during their final months.

When asked how she might spend the prize, Horton said she and her husband, who passed away two years ago, had planned to travel to Europe, so she may still do that in his honor once COVID-19 subsides. Or perhaps she’ll buy that long-awaited dream car. Or perhaps help her grandson who is getting married in May.

“Five minutes ago, I didn’t have any plans, but thanks to this unexpected money, now I do,” Horton exclaimed. “I am truly blessed.”