Urban Beginnings Choice FCU Moving Forward
By Rosalind Walker-Lewis
Since inception in 2006, making a difference in the lives of families of southeast Fort Wayne has been a prime objective for UBC FCU. Extensive detailed work was required in the establishment of this financial institution for federal and regulatory compliance the same as other authorized and approved financial institutions of all sizes – ProFED, Midwest, Chase, etc. Our vision, mission and core values highlight the Foundation of how UBC FCU operates.
Growth of members positively impacted, services provided at non-predatory rates, and other community benefits remain a driving force.
Over the years of operation, the UBC FCU team has expanded its strategic planning initiatives resulting in many positive changes. The name changed from Union Baptist Church to Urban Beginnings Choice to highlight the broader reach while building on the UBC foundation. The CU changed locations to the Urban League building for easier community access and community collaboration. From a field of membership based on a single organization (Union Baptist Church) to an increased field of membership of six – Union Baptist Church, The Temple, NAACP, New Covenant Worship Center, Human Agricultural Cooperative and Utopian Community Grocery – is significant progress. Members of these organizations can become members of UBC FCU. The lo-term strategy is focused on expansion to a community charter with a nearer-term focus of broadening membership served in the Southeast quadrant.
Adults and children have participated in financial literacy training sponsored by UBC FCU to better understand how money, when properly and respectfully used, can improve lives. In support of improved operational services and loan awards, UBC FCU has applied for and been awarded Strategic & Tactical grant funding which has positioned it to offer non-predatory financial products to those without perfect credit. Another significant accomplishment is that UBC FCU is established as one of three certified CDFIs (Community Development Financial Institutions) in Fort Wayne. This provides access to critical funds for impactful economic development within underserved communities.
Great progress has been made! Diane Starks, CEO identifies a few other accomplishments for which the team has worked to achieve – Digital Banking Services for online viewing of member accounts and submission of loan applications. Total assets of ~$1M are under the management of UBC FCU. The loan portfolio has increased and UBC FCU has been able to offer non-predatory loans to members to help improve their financial situation, and in some cases their credit scores.
Starting this April, Urban Beginnings Choice is excited to announce new services available to members to enhance customer service and convenience:
Expanded Digital Banking Services which provide online transfers, email communication and e-statements
ACH (Automated Clearing House) which allows electronic funds transfer with other participating financial institutions as deposits or withdrawals.
Credit card services - platinum, rewards and credit builder cards.
Members should contact the CU office to discuss any of the aforementioned services.
More is planned and will come with time. According to CEO Starks a few bigger goals for Urban Beginnings Choice are to offer mortgages for members, increase number of paid staff members and increase assets by a factor of 5.
These are BIG goals! But, the mission remains …To make competitive financial services and products available while increasing financial literacy and personal financial stability for the community we service. For more information, contact Urban Beginnings Choice CU team members via phone (260-456-1802) or email (info@ubcfcu.org). Office hours are: Monday -Wednesday – Friday from 1:00pm – 4:30pm.
Continue with us on the journey.
LinkedIn - Urban Beginnings Choice FCU - LinkedIn
FB - Urban Beginnings Choice FCU - FB