LITTLETON, Colo.–Arapahoe Credit Union has received its Community Development Financial Institution certification after enlisting CU Strategic Planning for its assistance.
Tacoma, Wash.-based CU Strategic Planning said it is the number-one CDFI certification and grant consultancy for credit unions.
“Arapahoe Credit Union is excited to be able to expand our existing commitment to our local communities,” Arapahoe CU CEO Scott Ferndelli said. “Adding resources will allow us to reach even more lower income consumers and help improve their financial well-being.”
CU Strategic Panning noted receiving certification opens a “number of possibilities for Arapahoe to improve service to its members.”
Shauna Exstrom, vice president of corporate administration, said the credit union would be seeking grant funding through the Treasury Department’s CDFI Fund.
“A grant would greatly expand Arapahoe CU’s ability to reach an underserved segment of our community,” said Exstrom. “These resources could be used in a variety of ways, from increased communication to offsetting loan losses.”
‘Energizing and Infectious’
Added CU Strategic Planning Director of Certification Services Carrie Ostrem, “Arapahoe CU’s commitment to serving its community’s most vulnerable is energizing and infectious. We were very happy to help the credit union unlock the opportunities in its local Denver community,” she said.
“CU Strategic Planning provided fantastic communication and coordination,” said the $155-million Arapahoe CU COO Christine Eckhardt said. “The process was a bit intensive, but the support and guidance Arapahoe CU received was incredibly efficient, timely and helpful.”