Park Community Credit Union Helps Members Flourish in Southern Indiana
Sponsored by: Park Community Credit Union
As a member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution, Park Community Credit Union is built around the people and communities it serves. Its mission is to build thriving communities together through financial inclusion and empowering underserved communities. Founded in 1965, Park has grown from serving employees of GE Appliances in Louisville to serving communities throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana. From homeownership and entrepreneurship to financial education and savings, greater financial access creates opportunities for people, families and local businesses to thrive.
“We create more opportunities by expanding access to affordable financing and trusted financial guidance,” says Jana Erny, president and CEO of Park. “Yes, providing financial services is what we do. However, empowering communities, fueling dreams and cultivating belonging is who we are.”
Park’s commitment shows up in the way it serves its members every day, helping individuals and families navigate financial challenges, achieve their goals and build stronger futures.
“What differentiates Park from everyone else is that we’re mission-based in the sense that we look beyond the balances in people’s bank accounts and try to understand their story, uncover opportunities and walk with them throughout their financial journey,” says Pete Johnson, branch manager at the Clarksville, IN, location. “We don’t just open an account and leave the interaction there. We’re working to build a relationship, and we want to be a part of all the achievements someone has, because that’s really the way banking should be.”
Chris Miller, branch manager at the New Albany, IN, location, recalls working with a member whose financial situation became complicated after her mother’s passing. The member had inherited responsibility for a car loan with a nearly 30% interest rate.
“Originally she wanted a personal loan to pay off some bills, but we were able to refinance her car loan,” says Miller. “With our thoughtful, individualized approach to underwriting, we are able to consider factors beyond traditional lending criteria. Members become like family – if they need something, they’ll reach out to you – you become a safe place for them. Park is really good at giving us the opportunity to do that. I’ve worked at other financial institutions that did not provide that for members or employees.”
Every Park employee is H.E.R.O. certified (Helping Everyone Reach Opportunity), which means they can provide support and guidance to turn something that may feel aspirational into something achievable.
It’s this type of personal investment in our members that can lead to greater financial stability, with an impact that extends far beyond the individual. The dividends of that investment are greater opportunities, stronger financial futures and thriving communities.
Today, Park is Kentuckiana’s largest Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), serving 82,000 members and recognized nationally by Forbes as a Best-in-State Credit Union.
For more information about Park Community Credit Union, visit parkcommunity.com.
