NOTRE DAME, Ind.–Notre Dame Federal Credit Union (Notre Dame FCU) said it has become the first and only Indiana credit union to be awarded the national Juntos Avanzamos (Together We Advance) designation for its commitment to serving and empowering Hispanic and immigrant consumers.
Juntos Avanzamos is a designation for credit unions committed to helping Hispanic and immigrant consumers navigate the U.S. financial system and providing safe, affordable and relevant financial services. Juntos Avanzamos credit unions employ bilingual, culturally-competent staff and leadership, accept alternative forms of ID and treat all of their members with respect, the credit union noted.
“On behalf of the network of Juntos Avanzamos credit unions, the Federation congratulates Notre Dame Federal Credit Union for their leadership in promoting financial inclusion for the Latino community. We’re pleased to announce Notre Dame FCU is the first credit union in the state of Indiana to receive the Juntos Avanzamos designation,” said Pablo DeFilippi, senior vice president of membership and network engagement, National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions.
Added Thomas J Gryp, NDFCU president & CEO, “This distinction acknowledges our historical and on-going commitment to help all our member-owners “move forward together” with financial empowerment tools that improve lives.”
To earn the Juntos Avanzamos designation, credit unions must complete an extensive application, requiring information about what products and services the credit union offers to specifically address the needs of the Hispanic Market, as well as what strategies they are utilizing to serve this important demographic group.
One such program cited was the Opportunity Loan, offered by Notre Dame FCU since 2009. The program provides low-cost financing for immigration-related fees associated with seeking citizenship, permanent residency or deferred action for childhood arrivals (DACA) extensions.
“Receiving this designation is a great honor that was not achieved overnight,” said Diversity and Inclusion Officer Esmi Rivera. “I am very honored and proud to work in an organization that supports and loves the community and does not allow cultural barriers to stand in the way of financial empowerment. Our mission at Notre Dame FCU is to change a life a day, and with our commitment, coupled with the help of the Juntos Avanzamos team, we will truly create a remarkable impact in our community.”
To celebrate the designation, Notre Dame FCU will be launching a new marketing campaign on national Citizenship Day to celebrate Doing More than just speaking the Spanish language. In addition, a formal presentation event will be scheduled later in the year.