Self-Help Shares

 

At Self-Help, we honor Black History Month by highlighting some of the many stories, people and issues that resonate with us. We acknowledge that diversity and inclusion are some of our strongest tools in our work towards authentic equity. We note where we could do better, and we celebrate successes. 

But just as we don’t practice gratitude only on Thanksgiving or offer affection to our loved ones only on Valentine’s Day, we also don’t just celebrate Black history during February. Instead, we aim to integrate celebration, equity and inclusion into our work throughout the year.

We appreciate that many within our community have a similar year-round commitment to equity. In this post, we share a snippet of a recent conversation between Kimberly Jones, Vice President and Director of Partnerships & Community Engagement for our Midwest region, and community leader and entrepreneur Sarah Ware. We hope you find it as thought-provoking as we did!

^{April Snow Gilbert, Area Manager, stands with the Black history display in Self-Help Federal CU’s Chatham branch in Chicago.}

It has been a festive February at Self-Help as we celebrate Black History Month! The nationwide theme for 2024 is “African Americans and the Arts.” Our branches are marking the occasion in a variety of special ways, ranging from live music and art exhibits to neighborhood tours. Otherwise, lifting up Black achievements and recognizing Black history as America’s history is just part of who we are and the everyday work we do to expand economic opportunities for all.

Here are just a few examples of Self-Help activities this month.

 The theme for Black History Month this year is “African Americans and the Arts.” In honor of this theme, we're kicking off Black History Month with a guest post by Self-Help's VP of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Dr. Quinton Smith.

In his post, Dr. Smith (or "Dr. Q" as he prefers to be called) explores the history of Black art in America and beyond, underscoring just how important the contributions of Black artists have been to our culture.

Over the next four weeks, Self-Help staff and members across our branches will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. As I join with my colleagues in the celebration, I find myself reflecting on what “Hispanic Heritage" means to me.  

Are you trying to reach a big financial goal but feel stuck? 

Whether it's dealing with significant student loan debt, building credit, or trying to become a homeowner, the path forward can feel insurmountable. But it doesn't have to be that way!

Wherever you are in your financial journey, you don't have to walk alone. We're here to walk with you.

In this short video, two of our wonderful coaching clients and their coaches share their stories. These clients were facing heavy student loan debt and other intimidating challenges, but with the support of their coaches, they persevered and became homeowners!

Celebrate Black Business Month with us! Read on to learn about the history of Black entrepreneurship and the month-long celebration of Black entrepreneurs and business leaders whose achievements bring our country ever closer to inclusive prosperity.  

If you've built up your savings and are interested in investing your money, but the thought of stocks or real estate sound like “too much too soon,” a term certificate might the right choice for you to test the waters of investing. Read about why a term certificate could be right for you, and learn about some strategies that can help you get the most out of your savings. 

Big financial goals can be exciting and daunting at the same time, and it can be difficult to know where to start. While your first thought might be to start a budget, without the right perspective, it can easily become a source of frustration. Learn how aligning your spending habits with your goals before you attempt to budget can help you maximize your chances for a successful financial journey.

Our 2022 Annual Report is now available! Read about the successes of the past year from our members, partners, and staff.

Juneteenth is a is a special holiday for Self-Help because the spirit of this holiday — celebrating the liberation of Black Americans — closely aligns with our mission of “creating and protecting ownership and economic opportunity, especially for people of color, women, rural residents and low-wealth families and communities.” Read more about why we love Juneteenth and what we're doing to celebrate this joyous commemoration of Black liberation.