SAN DIEGO–Mission FCU has become the first San Diego-based credit union to receive the Juntos Avanzamos designation.
Juntos Avanzamos (translation: Together We Advance) is an initiative managed by Inclusiv. Juntos Avanzamos credit unions can be a valuable starting point for community development leaders who need a connection to offering trustworthy and transparent financial services.
“This important distinction acknowledges Mission Fed’s historical and on-going commitment to help and support all of our members ‘move forward together ‘with financial empowerment tools that improve their lives,” said Debra Schwartz, president & CEO of Mission Fed. “We are committed to serving and empowering Hispanic and immigrant members by providing safe, affordable, transparent and relevant financial services. Every day I am so proud of our diverse team for making this designation a reality.”
To earn the Juntos Avanzamos designation, Mission Fed completed an extensive application process, requiring information and details about products and services offered to specifically address the needs of the Hispanic market, including what strategies are being utilized and the key community partnerships the organization has within the demographic.
Mission Fed said it seeks to be a trusted financial partner to all by employing bilingual, culturally competent team members and leadership, accepting alternative forms of ID such as Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN), and treating members with respect, regardless of immigration status.
“On behalf of the growing Inclusiv/Juntos Avanzamos network, we congratulate and honor Mission Fed Credit Union for making this public commitment to empowering the Hispanic community,” said Pablo DeFilippi, EVP with Inclusiv. “This designation will open the doors for asset building opportunities and provide a pathway to achieve financial security for Latinos throughout San Diego County.”
Community partners, elected officials and other key leaders came together to celebrate Mission Fed with a ceremony at the Mission Fed branch in Chula Vista.