Greylock Branch Designated 'Juntos Avanzamos'
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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — There was music and celebration at Greylock Federal Credit Union's Kellogg St. branch on Friday as it marked a feat in diversity.
A ceremony was held for its achievement of "Juntos Avanzamos" status, a national designation for credit unions committed to serving and empowering Hispanic and immigrant consumers by helping them navigate the U.S. financial system and providing safe, affordable, and relevant financial services.
The phrase translates to "Together We Advance."
"The whole team at Greylock, including our board, is committed to a concept that we call IDEA, which stands for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility," President and CEO John Bissell said.
"What it means is that our entire credit union team is dedicated to welcoming anyone and everyone in the communities that we serve regardless of where they come from, how they worship, who they choose to love, their physical abilities, or how much money they have."
A flag was raised to mark the designation accompanied by the musical stylings of the group Yo Soy Arte.
This is the credit union's third location to receive the designation since 2019, joining the West St. and Lee branches as Juntos Avanzamos. Next week, Greylock will have another designation celebration in Hudson, New York.
The network of credit unions that receive this status employ bilingual, culturally competent staff and leadership, accept alternative forms of ID, and treat all members with respect regardless of immigration status.
Sr. Community Relations and Latinx Financial Wellness Coach Gloria Escobar was credited for inspiring the effort. She extended a "gracias" to the many people who have helped along the way.
"We are dedicated to working with a growing Hispanic population. We know that many immigrants are unfamiliar with the financial system in the United States," she said.
"Our commitment at Greylock is to work with individuals and families as they settle into this new community, supporting their work towards financial security and independence. I am very proud to be part of this community and to partner with so many caring people who continue to help us and our families succeed in this country."
Director of Community Development Cindy Shogry-Raimer explained that the branch opened a Community Empowerment Center and made its website, marketing materials, and classes available in Spanish and English before the designation.
Most recently, they have introduced a Brazilian Portuguese option and conducted a class on preparing to be a new homebuyer.
In addition, they have two certified agents who submit applications for the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to the IRS. which are needed for folks to be able to pay taxes, build credit, and access lending products.
This service is offered at other places from anywhere between $200 and $700 and at Greylock, is free to members. Since this has been introduced, over 1,200 people have achieved an ITIN.
All lending products are available to members with a social security number and an ITIN and there are four bilingual financial counselors.
"We are really keeping our fingers on the pulse of our community," Shogry-Raimer said.
Executive Director of The Literacy Network Leigh Doherty said that it is a pleasure to partner with Greylock in changing people's lives and opening doors.
Through 10 volunteers, LitNet provides free tutors to people who want to learn or improve their English, serving people as young as 15 and as old as 92.
"What Greylock helps us do is provide books and resources for those amazing tutors that give their time," she explained. "We couldn't do what we do without Greylock and again, we're just delighted to partner in helping everybody move ahead no matter where you're from, where you live, in our amazing community with amazing people and organizations."
