MERCO Credit Union branches are ready to serve and meet the needs of Hispanic and immigrant communities, along with a stated goal to promote economic growth, build trust, and help all members of our community enter the economic mainstream.
The local financial institution was recently awarded with the “Juntos Avanzamos” designation by Inclusiv, an industry leader and network that promotes community development and financial inclusion among credit unions across the nation. The designation shows a credit union is committed to serving and empowering Latinos and immigrant communities by providing affordable financial services, bilingual support, and culturally relevant financial solutions.
MERCO is the only financial institution based in Merced with the designation.
Recognizing the achievement, a special proclamation ceremony was held last Saturday, Sept 20, at MERCO’s branch in Atwater.
“The mission of MERCO Credit Union is to help everyone in the community advance by providing affordable financial products,” CEO David Ness told those gathered. “Between 80 to 90 percent of the loans that are made are to low-to-moderate income members. Where others see risk, we see opportunity. With your support we are making a difference. We are fully committed to this community. All our employees and their families live, work, worship, and go the schools in town. Our employees are truly a reflection of the community. We care about our members. We’ve always been here for the members of our bank and always will be. We’re here today during Hispanic Heritage month to celebrate MERCO Credit Union’s efforts to serve the Hispanic members of the community.”
Among the many attending the event were Atwater Mayor Mike Nelson, Merced County Supervisor Daron McDaniel, representatives from Congressman Adam Gray’s office and the Mexican Consulate, members of the Merced County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, members of the MERCO Board of Directors, and dozens of MERCO employees who helped with the festivities.
Several of the dignitaries present commented on how great the Juntos Avanzamos designation was in the ongoing effort to grow the local economy.
CEO Ness also gave a special recognition to Jean Carlos Rosario Mercado, an Inclusiv representative who traveled to Atwater for the event.
Providing entertainment was Radio Lazer and the UC Merced Ballet Folkloric dance troupe. People also enjoyed tacos, hot dogs, churros, and ice cream. Kids played games and received goodie bags from MERCO employees.
And to top it off, many prizes were raffled off, including gift cards, gift baskets, a BBQ setup, an 85-inch TV, and four tickets to Disneyland.
Five-year-old Benjamin Flores won the Disneyland tickets. He told the Times he was excited to go for his birthday this coming December.
MERCO is a local, non-profit, member-owned Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that serves thousands of residents within a five county service area in the heart of the Central Valley. For more information visit online at: merco.org.