[The following is a paid advertisement.]

Illinois credit unions play a central role in expanding financial inclusion, especially for underbanked households who may lack access to safe, affordable financial services. As member-owned, not for profit cooperatives, their mission naturally aligns with serving people overlooked or priced out by traditional banks.

• Providing Affordable Core Financial Services
• Safe, Affordable Alternatives to Predatory Lending
• Financial Education and Literacy Programs
• Tailored Services for Low Income Communities
• Community Partnerships and Outreach
• Fair and Inclusive Lending Practices
• Support for Small Businesses & Local Economic Development

Credit unions serve the underbanked by focusing on access, affordability, education, and inclusion. Their member-owned structure and mission of “People Helping People” uniquely position them to fill gaps left by traditional banks—strengthening the financial health of individuals and the communities they call home.

NuMark Credit Union President & CEO Michelle Balog shares that their focus is to “enrich the financial lives” of their members. Watch more about Michelle’s goal to serve the “underbanked, or underserved, possibly even unbanked…to make sure they have access to the services the credit union offers”:

For more information, visit https://betterforillinois.org/
Paid for by Illinois Credit Union League.