‘JACKSON, Mich.– The $667-million American 1 Credit Union has partnered with the Michigan Department of Corrections to provide financial education to incarcerated individuals at Parnall Correctional Facility as they prepare for reentry into society.
Through the facility’s Vocational Village program, American 1’s Financial Wellness team is offering courses on key topics including budgeting, credit reports, and credit building. The goal is to equip future parolees with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed financial decisions and lay the groundwork for long-term success after release, the CU said.
“The financial landscape has changed significantly since many of these individuals entered the system,” said Collin Martin, financial wellness manager. “Our goal is to empower them with the knowledge and confidence to manage their finances and avoid the struggles that often accompany reentry.”
The Vocational Village at Parnall Correctional Facility offers incarcerated individuals hands-on career training and essential life skills. With the addition of financial education from American 1 Credit Union, the program takes a more comprehensive approach to rehabilitation—reinforcing the credit union’s commitment to community impact and promoting long-term financial empowerment.
Carolyn Duncan, chief member experience officer at American 1 Credit Union, emphasized the importance of the initiative.
“At American 1, our mission is to create financial wellness across all communities we serve,” Duncan said. “This partnership represents a meaningful step toward that goal—equipping incarcerated individuals with the financial knowledge and tools they need to successfully transition into life after release.”
American 1 Credit Union provides financial coaching and education to both its members and the broader community. It also offers the Fresh Start program—designed for individuals with low or no credit history—giving them a chance to rebuild their finances through tailored credit-building solutions. To learn more, visit american1cu.org/GetAFreshStart.