Valley First Credit Union earns prestigious Juntos Avanzamos designation
Credit Union Receives National recognition for commitment to Hispanic/Latinx and immigrant communities
MODESTO, CA (October 2, 2024) — Valley First Credit Union is proud to announce that it has obtained the distinguished Juntos Avanzamos designation. This designation underscores the credit union’s commitment to empowering Hispanic/Latinx and immigrant consumers through dedicated financial services and community support. As Valley First Credit Union receives this accreditation and the Juntos Avanzamos flag will be shared as a symbol of ongoing commitment to financial inclusion and empowerment of minority populations, Valley First Credit Union will host a Juntos Avanzamos proclamation celebration on Thursday, October 10, from 4:30-7pm at its downtown Modesto J Street branch.
Juntos Avanzamos, which translates to “Together We Advance,” recognizes credit unions that demonstrate a strong dedication to serving Hispanic/Latinx and immigrant communities. Earning the Juntos Avanzamos designation involves a rigorous application process, highlighting the credit union’s efforts to serve the Hispanic/Latinx market effectively. Valley First Credit Union distinguishes itself through its comprehensive suite of bilingual services, financial education initiatives, and inclusive lending practices.
“This designation is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where every member feels welcomed and valued,” said Kathryn Davis, CEO and President. “Our goal is to provide financial solutions that meet the unique needs of our diverse community, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to achieve their financial dreams. Every member has a unique story, and our role is to listen and provide the support they need to thrive. We are changing lives by offering understanding, education, and genuine financial solutions. Seeing our members achieve their goals is the ultimate reward.”
Valley First Credit Union’s commitment to bilingual service is evident across its entire network, with all member-facing functions (branches, contact center, lending, and collections) staffed by bilingual employees. The credit union continues actively recruiting bilingual financial specialists and tellers, emphasizing the importance of eliminating language barriers in providing exceptional member service. In addition, a language line has been added for staff to access when serving other member languages. Along with the profound impact of the credit union’s inclusive approach on its members, this designation reflects the credit union’s commitment to reducing barriers to financial services.
Pablo DeFilippi, Inclusiv Executive Vice President, said, “We commend Valley First Credit Union for its dedication to financial inclusion and for expanding access to affordable, responsible financial products and services to the Hispanic/Latinx community. Providing these resources is instrumental in helping individuals and families build a better future. Valley First Credit Union joins a growing number of Juntos Avanzamos designated credit unions serving millions of consumers throughout California.”
About Valley First Credit Union
Valley First Credit Union is a $1.04 billion, member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative providing quality financial services to 80,000 members in the growing and diverse communities of Calaveras, Fresno, Kings, Kern, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Sacramento, Tulare, and Tuolumne Counties. With eight branches throughout the Central Valley, the credit union is committed to banking with a purpose – to better the financial lives of the people and businesses in the communities we call home. To learn more about how Valley First is making good happen across the communities it serves, see the credit union’s 2023 Impact Report or visit www.valleyfirstcu.org/.
About Juntos Avanzamos
Juntos Avanzamos (“Together We Advance”) is a designation for credit unions committed to serving and empowering Hispanic and immigrant consumers – helping them 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, regardless of immigration status. The Juntos Avanzamos network is growing quickly; it currently includes 148 credit unions in 33 States, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia.
