GROTON — Brian A. Orenstein, CEO of Charter Oak Federal Credit Union, and Wayne J. Burgess, chairman of the credit union’s Supervisory Committee and President of the Southeastern Connecticut Central Labor Council AFL-CIO, have been named this year’s co-chairmen of the United Way of Southeastern Connecticut’s 2014 campaign appeal.

“We’re looking forward to leading this year’s campaign for United Way,” said Orenstein. “Despite a recovering economy, there’s still a profound need for assistance across this region,” he said.

“The monies we raise in 2014 will benefit a broad spectrum of local organizations that work together to advance the common good for everyone and provide building blocks for a better life, from those working to end food insecurity to groups that increase education efforts, stabilize incomes and create healthier lives in southeastern Connecticut,” Orenstein said.

Both Orenstein and Burgess have been longtime supporters of United Way efforts in the region, and Charter Oak is a corporate benefactor of the Gales Ferry-based social services agency. During 2013, Charter Oak employees increased their United Way giving by 22 percent, and the credit union and its employees were honored with United Way’s 2013 Partner of the Year, Outstanding Achievement and Benefactor awards.

Charter Oak’s assistance to those in need extends beyond its United Way annual campaign. The credit union’s Community Giving Program, started in 2009, has donated nearly

$800,000 to non-profits and charitable organizations across eastern Connecticut. During 2013, Charter Oak donated $200,000 in community giving and will increase its community giving in 2014 – its 75th anniversary year – by 10 percent.

Charter Oak has 13 branches including one in Dayville and one in Putnam.