Connections Credit Union Earns Juntos Avanzamos Designation, Becoming Idaho’s 4th Credit Union in the Network

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on August 12, 2025

Connections Credit Union was recently awarded the Juntos Avanzamos Designation (“Together We Advance”) by Inclusiv, joining a national movement of over 140 credit unions across 33 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico that have earned this designation.

As part of this achievement, Connections Credit Union hosted a Proclamation Ceremony on July 16 in Nampa, Idaho, to publicly declare its commitment to expanding bilingual services, lowering barriers, and empowering all community members to achieve financial success. It took 10 months for Connections Credit Union to receive this award, which highlights the short period of hard work and the dedication of our team to make this possible.

As part of Connections Credit Union’s impact and commitment to the community, they also introduced the Mobile Unit — a fully equipped financial services unit designed to bring trusted, in-person banking directly to the individuals and families who need it most. Connections Credit Union’s Mobile Unit allows them to serve Idahoans where they are, eliminating geographic barriers and ensuring that every member of our state has the opportunity to build financial stability.

To show their commitment and impact in the Hispanic communities, the credit union also partnered with local artist Héctor Acuna, who created a custom art piece for the occasion. His work was turned into a limited-edition sticker that represents the Juntos Avanzamos award and Connections Credit Union’s commitment to the community.

Throughout the event, they were joined by local leaders who shared remarks about this designation, including Mari Ramos with the Idaho Hispanic Foundation, Nampa City Councilman Victor Rodriguez, a representative from the Mexican Consulate, Jean Carlos from Inclusiv, and Connections’ CEO Jamie Simmons and CDFI Lead Chelsia Neto.

Each speaker shared powerful reflections on inclusion, access, and Connections Credit Union’s support for community members.

“In Idaho, a state shaped by the values of community and resilience, this designation feels especially powerful,” shared Chelsia Neto, Connections’ CDFI Coordinator. “Our state thrives when neighbors show up for neighbors. And at Connections Credit Union, that is our north star: showing up — for each other, for our members, and for those who need us most. This achievement reflects the work of many hands and hearts. It reflects the trust of our members, the dedication of our staff, and the support of partners who connected us to communities from across Idaho, who needed financial knowledge and access.”

Posted in Idaho, Regional Member News.