Your Neighborhood Credit Union

6 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 10, ISSUE 4 YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CREDI T UNION ( YNCU) MOTIVATE 2 SKATE This is a uniquely Canadian event that has been tweaked in recent years to focus on inclusion. It offers international post-secondary students and underserved youth groups free skating lessons at local ice rinks. It is the first time putting on ice stakes for many of the participants but provides a casual, fun atmosphere regardless of skill level. It provides experienced instructors that outline the basic skills needed to help participants skate with confidence. SHOP YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD This is another event that was created at the start of the COVID pandemic. YNCU provided small business owners and entrepreneurs with the platform to build a digital store online at no cost. The credit union has a platform that allows such a store to be built quickly online within minutes. Initially, it was structured to help businesses react to closures and pandemic shutdowns but is being updated to meet market demand. The program shifted after the initial needs of the pandemic had been met to offer small business reimbursed shipping charges to reach more customers and combat rising shipping fees. This shift has significantly increased margins for entrepreneurs since being added. The Shop Your Neighborhood program is continually evolving to meet small businesses where they have needs. WOMEN IN CRISIS WALK Held in the Kitchener and Waterloo area, YNCU team members are heavily involved in event planning and operations, donating countless combined hours. In addition to financial support from the credit union, team members also have added an adopt-a- family program that supports underprivileged mothers and their children who have often suffered from physical and/or mental abuse. “The great thing about these and other events we participate in is that they are truly identified and driven by our staff,” say Dias.t YNCU is expanding and will open new branches over time when and if it is advantageous for