Financial Center Wins Top Honors in Statewide and National Credit Union Awards

Recognition Involves Education, Community Impact, and Operations

In a testament to its innovative programs and dedication to members, Financial Center First Credit Union has been awarded first place in all four categories of the 2023 Indiana Credit Union League’s statewide competition. These awards, in the $250 million-$1 billion asset range, reflect the Credit Union's significant dedication to inclusive banking, financial wellness, and community impact.

Additionally, the Credit Union has been awarded first place in the Dejardins Award for Adult Financial Literacy at a national level through the Credit Union National Association (CUNA).

The following recognitions were presented at the ICUL Chairman’s Awards Banquet:

First Place: Desjardins Award for Adult Financial Literacy

This award acknowledges Financial Center's outreach in financial education to thousands of Hoosiers. In 2022, more than 2,200 members attended workshops, nearly 8,000 listened to the Carpe Dime podcast, and the Credit Union partnered with various community groups to educate adults to live healthier financial lives.

First Place: Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award

This award highlights the Credit Union’s commitment to underserved and underbanked communities, with a focus on the Hispanic and Latino populations in Indiana. Tremendous results have been achieved through partnerships with the Consul de Mexico in Indiana, participation in Inclusiv’s Juntos Avanzamos program, a relationship with the World Council of Credit Unions and its Global Bridges Alliance, and listening to community and business leader feedback through the Credit Union’s International Advisory Council.

First Place: Louise Herring Philosophy in Action Award

This recognition showcases the Credit Union's commitment to prioritizing members’ financial health and well-being by reducing or eliminating punitive fees. Fee reductions and eliminations made as a result of this project started in October of 2022 and are projected to save members $1 million annually.

First Place: Desjardins Award for Adult Financial Literacy

Acknowledging Financial Center's educational initiatives for youth, this award recognizes the Credit Union's approach in forming partnerships with local middle and high schools, as well as with Ball State University, IU Kokomo, and Ivy Tech. Through these collaborations, Financial Center provides free financial education curriculum to thousands of students annually.

"Receiving these statewide and national awards is both exciting and humbling," said Cam Minges, President and CEO of Financial Center. "They underscore the hard work of our team and our consistent commitment to helping members achieve more vibrant financial lives."

When commenting on the national award, CUNA President and CEO Jim Nussle shared, “Congratulations to this year’s winners for the exemplary work done for their communities and the members they serve. These leaders have made it their mission as credit union advocates to promote financial well-being. I applaud their commitment to the credit union movement.”