As we bid farewell to Hispanic Heritage Month, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible impact we were able to make this year, thanks to each and every one of you. Our involvement in Hispanic Heritage Month marked a significant step forward in our commitment to supporting the Hispanic community and advancing financial wellness. Let's take a closer look at the highlights of this year's celebration:

Viva La Fiesta Stage Sponsorship

This year, we proudly served as the stage sponsor for Viva La Fiesta, Jacksonville's premier Hispanic Heritage Festival. Our prominent presence at this event showcased our dedication to the community, and it allowed us to connect with a diverse and engaged audience.

Our booth at the festival served as a hub for connecting with attendees and spreading financial literacy. We engaged the audience, answered questions, and provided valuable resources to those seeking financial wellness.

Latina Radio 92.1 Interview

As a result of our stage sponsorship, we were invited to Latina Radio 92.1 for a brief interview on their morning show. This opportunity helped us share our mission and values with a broader audience, strengthening our position as financial educators.

Juntos Avanzamos Cultural Inclusion Challenge

I am delighted to share that several of our coworkers took up the Juntos Avanzamos Cultural Inclusion Challenge and succeeded. Their efforts exemplify our dedication to inclusivity and cultural awareness.

Achieving the Dream Scholarship

Once again, Alive sponsored the Achieving the Dream scholarship, a vital initiative aimed at helping LatinX students overcome financial obstacles in their pursuit of education through the First Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Graduation rates for LatinX students at both 2-year and 4-year colleges have faced challenges, primarily due to financial constraints. By providing this scholarship, we are truly inspiring financial wellness and making a significant impact on these students' lives.

As we move forward, let's carry the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month with us every day. The positive outcomes of our involvement in these events are a testament to our collective dedication to financial wellness and community development. I am immensely proud of the work we do and the impact we create.

This past Saturday, the 2023 NAMI Walks Jacksonville event, hosted by the Winston Family YMCA in Riverside, saw an impressive turnout of over 400 community members. The day kicked off at 8 a.m. with Alive prominently represented at the NAMI Walks Wellness Fair. Mark and I engaged in meaningful conversations with hundreds of attendees, discussing our commitment to establishing a "Financial Zen Zone" for those grappling with the weighty burden of financial stress, all through our comprehensive and free financial wellness resources. As part of our outreach, we distributed Money Tree planter kits featuring Alive's information.

In addition to our presence at the fair, our dedicated team participated in the walk/run event. A special shout-out goes to Jess Parmenter, Shirley Rincon, and Andre Ruiz-Feijoo for their support, showcasing to all of Jacksonville that the Alive Team deeply cares about the community.

It's essential to recognize that a significant portion of event participants either confront their own battles with mental illness or support someone who does. While mental illness often conjures images of depression and anxiety, its impact extends far beyond these facets. Mental illness can touch anyone's life. Let's delve into how mental illness intersects with financial well-being.

Mental Illness & Financial Wellness

Financial stress ranks as a prominent catalyst for anxiety and depression in our society. Astonishingly, 62% of Americans admit to feeling stressed about their financial situation. Furthermore, financial stress correlates with a 13% higher likelihood of developing mental health issues.

As the weight of trying to make ends meet permeates one's daily existence, a perilous path can emerge. Individuals grappling with high financial stress are 3x more likely to experience symptoms of depression. An astonishing 70% of adults state that financial stress adversely affects their mental health.

How Alive makes a difference

Seeking professional help for financial challenges can result in an 80% reduction in overall stress levels. Becoming part of a supportive environment can lead to a 20% improvement in mental well-being. When a member reaches out to consult with Alive's Financial Wellness Coach, we can immediately make an impact on their mental health. Our focus on educating individuals about budgeting, saving, and credit isn't merely about finances; it's about enhancing overall well-being.

A remarkable 87% of individuals who receive financial education report a reduction in financial stress. Members can explore these educational resources through articles, webinars, coaching sessions, or by utilizing the Savvy Money tool available on their online banking page.

Do you have a member whom you suspect is grappling with significant financial stress? We encourage you to refer them to our dedicated Financial Wellness Coach and introduce them to the array of free resources accessible on our website.

In the vibrant city of Jacksonville, Florida, one of our most rewarding missions is to provide financial services that empower and uplift our diverse communities. Among these communities, the Hispanic population plays a crucial role in the cultural and economic tapestry of our city. As a Juntos Avanzamos Credit Union, we have the honor of witnessing firsthand the impact of providing financial services to the Hispanic community.

community statistics

• 11.3% of the Jacksonville population identify as LatinX or Hispanic

• 1 in 4 Floridians are of Hispanic descent

• Hispanics account for 29% of consumer buying power in Florida

Understanding the Financial Struggles

Before we dive into the positive impact, let's take a moment to understand some of the unique financial struggles that members of the Hispanic community in Jacksonville may face:

For many Hispanic residents, English may not be their first language. This language barrier can make it challenging to access financial services, understand complex documents, or communicate effectively with financial institutions. Some individuals in the Hispanic community may be unbanked or underbanked, meaning they have limited access to traditional banking services. This can result in a reliance on costly alternative financial services such as predatory check cashing services. Immigration status can be a significant factor affecting financial stability. Undocumented individuals may face additional challenges in accessing certain financial resources or services. Financial literacy is a universal need, but it may be particularly essential for those who are navigating a new financial system in a new country. Lack of financial knowledge can lead to poor financial decisions.

The Impact of Providing Financial Services

Now, let's shift our focus to the positive impact of providing tailored financial services to the Hispanic community in Jacksonville:

Empowerment Through Education

Financial educators such as Alive’s team of Financial Wellness Coaches, play a vital role in equipping members of the Hispanic community with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed financial decisions. This empowerment can break down barriers and create a path to financial stability.

Building Trust

By establishing trust and fostering relationships within the community like at the upcoming Viva La Fiesta event, Alive is able to encourage more individuals to utilize banking services, reducing their reliance on costly alternatives.

Access to Affordable Services

Offering affordable and accessible financial services can make a significant difference in the lives of Hispanic residents. This includes providing our free and low-fee banking options, affordable and non-discriminatory loans, and savings programs.

Financial Inclusion

Ultimately, the goal is financial inclusion. By ensuring that all members of the Hispanic community have access to mainstream financial services, we create a more equitable and prosperous city for everyone.

In conclusion, providing financial services to the Hispanic community in Jacksonville goes beyond banking; it's about building bridges to financial stability and success. By understanding the unique challenges faced by this community and tailoring our services to meet their needs, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our Hispanic neighbors. Together, we can work towards a more financially inclusive and prosperous Jacksonville for all.

Sources: COJ.net, hispanicunity.org, pewresearch.org

In 2016, Alive initiated a special partnership with Bacon County Hospital (BCH). Located in Alma, Georgia, approximately two hours north of Jacksonville, BCH has been serving the small community of 3,000 residents since its establishment in 1952.

Despite Bacon County's rural setting, its residents are known for their vibrant spirit and love for outdoor activities. While driving down Main Street, you're likely to spot boats, 4-wheelers, bikes, side-by-sides, and big trucks. With a population of 11,000, economic growth opportunities are limited, but the humble Bacon residents are diligent savers. Those who open shares at Alive are particularly drawn to our Holiday Club Account.

Alma is renowned for its annual Blueberry Festival, a cherished tradition where the community comes together to celebrate the significance of their blueberry crop and express gratitude to those involved in its production. The festival offers a plethora of entertainment, activities, and mouthwatering food.

BCH lives by the motto, "You're in my care," and strives to be a regional leader in patient safety, quality, and service excellence. Much like Alive, BCH recognizes that regardless of the number of patients they serve, everyone deserves top-notch care. One way in which Alive can support our Bacon County Hospital members is by acknowledging their pivotal role within the community and offering education on credit, as this rural area often lacks access to reputable lending institutions.

Have you had the chance to meet any BCH members? The next time you receive a call or encounter a member visiting from Bacon County, which they frequently do to shop in Jacksonville, make a point to connect with them and express your gratitude for their unique membership with us. Additionally, we'd love to hear your suggestions for the next Select Employee Group (SEG) we should spotlight. Please share your ideas in the comments below!

In a world where financial stability and literacy are crucial skills, Alive Credit Union has taken up the mantel to make a tangible difference. Community Development & Financial Wellness Coaches, the driving force behind the financial literacy initiatives at Alive Credit Union, have been transforming lives and shaping futures throughout the year. As we pass the halfway-marker to a remarkable year, it's time to reflect on the incredible strides made in spreading financial knowledge and empowerment.

High School 9:12 Financial Literacy Bootcamp

The year started with a resounding success as we continued our partnership with High School 9:12 to deliver an intensive 6-week financial literacy bootcamp. The impact of this initiative is simple, equipping young minds with essential life skills that go beyond the classroom. From budgeting basics to understanding the nuances of credit, participants emerged from the program with newfound confidence and financial clarity.

We will be continuing this initiative with our fall series featuring all new materials and even more engagement with our invaluable resources from Banzai beginning September 18th. Please see upcoming events for more information!

Deepening Relationships through education

Throughout the year we have provided short seminars and get-to-know-us events for some of our existing partners such as Chad & Sandy Realty, Consor Moving, and Lutheran Social Services. If you have a business or foundation that may be interested in getting to know our credit union, reach out to Hali or Christian to set up an interactive and meaningful seminar.

Nurturing Financial Literacy in Local Schools

Summer became a season of outreach as we embarked on a journey to local high schools, including Terry Parker, Riverside, Andrew Jackson, and Westside, through the Communities in School Summer Camps. We also visited Lutheran Social Services After School Program, NLP Logix Coding Summer Camp, and the ARC’s High School High Tech Summer Camps. These sessions were bite-sized yet impactful, covering the fundamental aspects of opening bank accounts, cultivating a savings mindset, and laying the foundation for building a strong credit history. These efforts ensured that financial education reached young minds during a time when they were most receptive.

Monthly Financial Wellness Webinars

One of the cornerstones of Alive's initiatives was the launch of the monthly financial wellness webinars. This virtual platform allowed members to engage with financial experts and gain insights from the comfort of their homes. The inclusivity of this approach meant that geographical barriers were shattered, enabling a broader audience to access valuable financial guidance. Whether attending live or catching up on the replays, participants were armed with practical knowledge to make informed decisions.

Stay tuned to the free webinars that come out on the second Wednesday of each month. Our members can register to join live on the Alive website, or catch the replay on Youtube!

#FinancialFreedomFridays: A Social Media Movement

Alive has also demonstrated a keen understanding of the digital age by embracing social media as a tool for change. The inception of #FinancialFreedomFridays showcases our commitment to making financial literacy bite-sized and accessible. Through engaging and educational reels, members were treated to succinct yet impactful tips, transforming their Fridays into stepping stones toward financial empowerment.

A Special Gift on the Horizon: Spreading Holiday Cheer

As the year approaches its grand finale, Alive has created a special team of merry elves including Mark, Dylan, Christian, and Hali to prepare a special educational gift for all Alive Credit Union members. This December promises to be a season of giving, as members can look forward to a resource that encapsulates the essence of financial empowerment. The anticipation builds as Alives dedication to transforming lives continues to shine.

From intensive boot camps to virtual webinars, the initiatives undertaken in 2023 have redefined the landscape of financial education. Through collaboration, innovation, and a genuine desire to make a difference, Alive has taken strides toward a more financially empowered society.

As we eagerly await the December surprise, let's take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of empowering financial literacy. The impact has been immense, and the future holds the promise of even greater strides toward a world where financial knowledge is a cornerstone of success.

Written by Hali

Who they are

The Clara White Mission was founded in 1904 but dates back to the 1880s in Jacksonville when former slave Clara English White began feeding her hungry neighbors out of her home on Clay Street. Her daughter, Dr. Eartha M. M. White would become a renowned humanitarian and work to build the Clara White Mission into a centenarian foundation not only focused on housing and feeding the hungry and displaced but also providing vocational programs to put people to work.

Along the way, the White Harvest Farm was built into the foundation. At White Harvest Farm, the foundation is not only able to grow organic food to feed the nearly 1000 families they aid each week, but to also act as a community hub for education on self-sustainability, urban gardening, and urban beekeeping.

Involvement

Recently CARES activated a group of volunteers to go out to the White Harvest Farm for a day volunteering in the August sun as they reap the last of the summer harvest and prepare for fall. Together, the volunteers tackled several projects for the foundation including digging holes for irrigation, shoveling and loading mulch, and harvesting hibiscus buds for tea and jelly. We were able to harvest over 14 lbs of hibiscus buds and process them to be ready for use to feed the community.

How you can get involved

The White Mission Farm seeks volunteers every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. If you have not yet reached your VTO goal for the year, and are interested in making a meaningful impact on the community while working in the garden, you can enroll in the volunteer slots they have available at their website linked here. The Farm also has a weekly Farms Market on Saturdays to fund its efforts and offer affordable workshops to teach food sustainability skills to those who are interested.

Alive has been a partner of Brooks Rehab for several years. The depth and breadth of Brooks Rehabilitation’s community programs are unique from any other health program. They provide adaptive sports, Aphasia care in the Brain Injury Clubhouse, as well as state of the art therapeutic services. It isn’t just the state of the art equipment that makes an impact on our community, but also the care the Brooks staff give to their patients in and outside of working hours. Brooks employees donate nearly $150,000 of their own money annually to provide to individuals with differing abilities. They also donate much of their time.

Jess Parmenter and Hali Hagist, both Alive CARES members, saw this first hand on July 15th while volunteering at the 15th Annual Adaptive Surfing event. The adaptive surfing event has well over 100 volunteers, a majority of which are Brooks employees, assisting the mentally and physically challenged with an engaging surf experience. Some individuals may be recovering from a stroke, while others may be quadriplegics. No matter what each individual brings to the table, Brooks ensures each and every person is treated with dignity and given a chance to make a splash!

Brooks has 610 active participants in their Adaptive Sports and Recreation program the Jacksonville area. This program offers fitness and friendship to participants of all ages. Brooks has a wide range of adaptive sports it offers including:

• Archery

• Billiards

• Boccia

• Bowling

• Cycling

• Dance

• Fishing

• Golf

• Kayaking

• Mindfulness based Yoga

• Movie Nights

• Power Soccer

• Rowing

• Surfing

• Trap Shooting

• Water Skiing

• Wheelchair Basketball

• Wheelchair Rugby

This program would not be possible without volunteers like Hali and Jess who earned 5 additional hours towards Alive’s 300 hour goal! If you are interested in volunteering with the Brooks Rehab Adaptive Sports Program, please click the button below to explore upcoming events. CARES has also teamed up with Brooks for a School Supply Drive organised by the Brooks School Re-entry Program. You can see pictures from all volunteer events under the Team Pictures page!

Once again, CARES will be bringing the beloved “Top Pet Contest” back to help raise funds for the American Heart Association.

Each year, Alive animal lovers share their pets in the contest with a $5 entry fee. Then all employees vote in $1 increments for the “Top Pet”.

All proceeds go towards the Heart Walk. This year, Team Captain Jess has raised the bar and set our donation goal to $2,500. Jess has participated in the Heart Walk for the past four years either working the table event or being part of the team encouraging donations. Jess shared, “I love that Alive participates in the Heart Walk each year because it gives employees a chance to rally together to help support a great cause and shows how dedicated Alive is to supporting it’s community.”

Are you interested in seeing if your pet has the stuff to be a star? Share your picture or video today. Voting begins July 31st! For more information, check out the Top Pet Contest page.

Every year on July 28th we celebrate #ILoveMyCreditUnion Day. The purpose of the #ILoveMyCreditUnion movement is to bring credit unions together internationally on a single day with the purpose of inspiring authentic and high-energy conversation about why we love our credit unions.

What do you love?

There are many reasons to love your credit union. Maybe you love Alive because of our active involvement in the community. Perhaps you love that our lending is all decisioned in house and by a human being. It could be that you are enamored with our supportive and hard working back office staff. You may love that each of our member service representatives and tellers know our members and offer account solutions specific to the individual.

Whatever your reason is, now is the time to share your unique experience and perspective. During #ILoveMyCreditUnion Day, we along with hundreds of other credit unions around the world, will share our love on social media by using the designated hashtag. We can also use this opportunity to engage with our members. Use the branded #ILoveMyCreditUnion slips provided to your supervisor to ask your member, “I see you have been a member with Alive for 20 years, can you share with me what you love about your CU?”. It’s also a great time to share your appreciation for the members who trust us each day with their money. These are the funds that secure their home, provide for their family, and allow them to accomplish their dreams.

Your call to action:

Leading up to July 28th, you may receive an email request to share your story. Your story may be a way that Alive has supported you in your personal or professional life that drives your love and support for our CU. On the day of, be sure to share and repost our posts on your personal social media or share your own personal story to help spread the word!

On #ILoveMyCreditUnion Day, please wear your red I love my CU shirt or another Alive branded shirt in red or black to correlate with our efforts.

#ILoveMyCreditUnion

#ILoveMyCreditUnion

On the third Tuesday of each month, families line up outside of Lutheran Social Services for free eye exams, health screenings, HIV testing, and financial services while they wait to collect food from the food pantry. Since November of 2022 Alive has been the proud presenter of the monthly event that helps to support our community in such an impactful way.

For several months, Karen, supervisor of the Baymeadows Branch, attended these events. Karen and now Hali, speak to the attendees and provide financial education and provide product knowledge to assist them wherever they are at on their financial wellness journey. Many of these members of our community have suffered from a job loss, illness, or mave recently immigrated to the United States. The majority have no credit or are working to repair their credit, two life paths that Alive is well prepared to address. With Alive’s recent Bank On designation for our Fresh Start Checking Account, we expect even more of these members of the community will turn to Alive to assist in helping to get them back on their feet.

Beyond Alive’s partnership with Lutheran Social Services, CARES also worked with the food pantry earlier this year by not only raising over 400 lbs of food donations given to families in need, but also by leading a week long Pantry Volunteer initiative where team members from all over the credit union earned volunteer time off while helping pack food boxes and give them out to the displaced and hungry.

Stay tuned to learn more about how Alive works to inspire financial wellness in our community!

According to a USA Today report from 2022, parents spent $661 per child in grades K-12 on back-to-school purchases on average. That price can be assumed to be even greater as an effect of inflation this school year. 15 million children’s families do not have the money for school supplies. With budgets tighter than ever, our members and community may struggle with sending their children and teens back to school this year.

How can you help?

CARES has been inspired by the Brooks Rehab School Supply Drive. This school supply drive takes the donated pens, pencils, and various other supplies and distributes them to the Title I schools in Duval County. A Title I school is a school that has been tapped to be in a federally funded program based on the percentage of students eligible for free and reduced lunch. These schools have a population of at least 40% of students in a low-income family. To be considered a low-income family, the average annual income cannot exceed $30,000 for a family of four.

CARES Challenges You!

CARES is challenging each of our branches in Jacksonville to begin collecting school supplies using the donation boxes that will delivered shortly. Not only do we challenge each branch to gather donated goods, we also want to see what branch can gather the most. As we all know, west side was the best side when it came to our Ronald McDonald tab collection. Who will be the greatest champion for our Duval County students in need? Time is of the essence: all donations end July 31st so that supplies can be organized and get out to the children before school starts in August.

Spend the night of June 20, 2020 sleeping without a bed. On a couch. On a floor. In a car. In a tent. Just not in your cozy bed. Share the photos on social to raise awareness and ask others to join you in sleeping without a bed and donating to #familypromise

Why should you participate in #NightWithoutABed?

It is a challenge that raises awareness for families experiencing homelessness. Sharing posts and making a donation to #fpjax will help raise awareness and raise the funds necessary to help families in need.

Make a donation to Family Promise of Jacksonville today: https://www.fpgives.org/orga…/family-promise-of-jacksonville