Building Stronger Financial Futures

Every member and community we serve has unique needs and challenges to overcome. That’s why Clearwater actively looks for ways to help low-income families access the banking services and loans they need.

One way we do that is by partnering with local Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) organizations in the communities we serve. HRDCs are non-profits that help individuals and families meet fundamental life needs with affordability grants, energy bill assistance, as well as help with food and clothing. They can even help people find a job. Lastly, there’s always an opportunity to help people bring their finances into focus. 

In 2022, Clearwater established its first HRDC partnership with Opportunities Inc. in Great Falls, MT, to deliver banking services in a way that is both accessible and easy to understand. That partnership has created a support system that offers those in need with the resources and skills they need to build stronger financial futures, including new accounts, loans, free financial counseling, and education classes. In early 2024, we established our second partnership with The HRDC of Bozeman.

Through our HRDC partnerships, Clearwater has learned a great deal about the challenges and barriers low-income families face when navigating traditional banking systems. To help those families and individuals, we created the Pathway Banking program, which includes a robust set of low-cost accounts, loans, and services that help people manage their money, build or re-build their credit, and develop money management skills.

As a values-based organization and Montana’s largest Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), Clearwater is dedicated to ensuring all Montanans have an opportunity to prosper. Learn more about the Pathway Banking program and Clearwater’s partnership with local HRDC organizations at clearwatercreditunion.org/pathway.

This story was originally in Clearwater’s 2023 Annual Report