Skip to main content

Best Of 2024: Supporting Member Financial Wellbeing

A look back at how credit unions championed member financial wellbeing in 2024 with innovative products and services that meet members where they are and help them thrive.

Junk fees, rising living costs, and inflation rates that still lean hot make it difficult to save some scratch for a rainy day, much less afford a home to keep your head dry. Luckily for those living on Main Street, Supporting Member Financial Wellbeing is a core tenet to a credit union’s work.

Of course, “financial wellbeing” can include loan or deposit products, financial education, or something else entirely depending on the life status and financial position of any individual member. Despite that challenge, success stories abound of credit unions serving members where they are and how they need.

  • The economy is improving! At least, that’s what the data says. Unfortunately, many consumers — and Gen Z in particular — simply aren’t feeling it. To combat the “vibecession” funk credit unions are turning to social media and superior experiences.
  • Saving money is important, but stashing away even a modest amount can be an insurmountable feat with standard products and rates. But a new high-yield savings account at Langley FCU is improving nest eggs and financial acumen while boosting liquidity at the cooperative.
  • Junk fees? Not at Community Financial, where a fee-free checking product helps members budget their money and spend within their means.
  • Is retirement a pipe dream? Data from YouGov offers a rude awakening about financial security in the twilight years; it also sheds light on how credit unions can help members better plan for life after a paycheck.
  • Members’ mortgage needs are as varied as the homes they hope to purchase. So why do most programs treat all borrowers the same? In the name of equity and accessibility, Honor Credit Union in Michigan segments its mortgage products by demographic, profession, and more.

How about your credit union? How do you support member financial wellbeing? What successes have you notched? What lessons have you learned? Let us know, and we might feature your story on CreditUnions.com.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Let the Truth be Told - Why a New NCUA Rule Could Jolt Credit Union Innovation

The National Credit Union Administration has finalized a rule to improve board and executive succession planning within the credit union industry. This strategic move aims to curb the trend of mergers driven by technological stagnation and poor succession strategies, ensuring more credit unions maintain their independence and enhance their technological capabilities. By Ken McCarthy, Manager of marketing communications at Tyfone Credit unions are merging out of existence because of an inability to invest in technology, the National Credit Union Administration Board wrote when introducing its now finalized rule on board succession planning. The regulator now requires credit unions to establish succession planning for critical positions in their organizations. But it’s likely to have even wider effects, such as preserving more independent charters and shaking up the perspectives of those on credit union boards. “Voluntary mergers can be used to create economies of scale to offer more or ...

Speakers & Sessions For NCOFCU 24 San Antonio TX.

National Council of Firefighter Credit Unions Inc (NCOFCU)  Speakers and Schedule! It is the National Council of Firefighter Credit Unions (NCOFCU) "GO TO Conference" for credit unions serving first responders! Who should attend? CEO's, VP's Directors and Staff See What's Planned Register Here! Bring your spouse, bring a guest to enjoy San Antonio, TX River Walk 4 Days Golf 16 + Sessions Alamo Reception Closing Dinner Right on the San Antonio River Walk Several Networking events Open Forums Idea Exchange Events Panel Discussions of CU Leaders National & Industry Speakers Trends in First-Responder Credit Unions Director & Volunteer Sessions Exhibitors ShowcaseAnd  So Much More! HOTEL REGISTER HERE

Armand Parvazi MBA CUDE - Last Friday marked his last day with New Orleans Firemen’s Federal Credit Union.

It’s been an incredible journey, but it’s bittersweet to announce that Friday marked my last day with New Orleans Firemen’s Federal Credit Union. We've accomplished so much together in my six years as Chief Administrative and Development Officer. Some of the highlights: Implemented a data-driven marketing strategy that delivers over 1,800% annual ROI. Developed automated triggers to ensure members receive the right offers at the right time. Grew assets by 61% and increased products per new member from 1.88 to 2.62. Converted online banking to enhance the member experience. Introduced a loan origination system for faster and more efficient loan processing. Transitioned to a mobile-first financial institution to meet members where they are. Pioneered the first Cancer Care loan pause program in the nation (in collaboration with Andy Janning ) Secured nearly $17 million in grants for our impactful work. Expanded our field of membership to 35 parishes and counties and added numerous fi...