When banks reduce their overall branch footprint or even close a single location, it can have a big impact on rural communities. In Michigan alone, 321 bank branches closed between June 30, 2020, and June 30, 2022, according to FDIC data. For some cooperatives, tapping into banking deserts is not only an opportunity for sustainable growth, but the privilege to improve the everyday lives of those within the community by offering accessible banking.
That was the case when Huntington Bank left Coleman, MI, creating a vacancy in this small town, and giving United Bay Community Credit Union an opportunity to step in and make a difference. During this webinar, Diane Abbonizio, CEO, and Doug Kelley, CFO of United Bay Community Credit Union, will share best practices and lessons learned from that experience, and how they’re turning banking deserts into growth opportunities across the state.
Webinar attendees will learn:
-How banking deserts can offer credit union’s expansion opportunities by tapping into unreserved markets and reaching members in need.
-United Bay’s personal journey for building trust with new members and the surrounding community of Coleman.
-Why United Bay is working closely with local businesses to foster long-term success.
