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.

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