First Independence Bank partners with Operation HOPE for neighborhood credit score analysis

By Mshale Staff

First Independence Bank (FIB) and Operation HOPE last week launched “a transformational partnership” with the goal of empowering people in Twin Cities and Detroit communities through financial coaching, debt counseling, financial education and awareness, and other community programs.The partnership launched with a June 7 “Hope Inside the Twin Cities” economic roundtable at the Neighborhood Development Center in St. Paul, and a June 9 “Hope Inside Detroit” welcome reception and fireside chat in Detroit.

“This initiative is a part of our ongoing commitment to positively impact the people and communities where we do business,” said Kenneth Kelly, chairman and CEO of First Independence Bank. “I couldn’t be more pleased to expand our partnership with Operation HOPE and provide new financial resources and education to people in the Twin Cities and Detroit markets.”

The partnership with Operation HOPE will provide FIB with onsite financial coaches in both the Twin Cities and Detroit. It’s part of the bank’s communitybased approach to financial wellness and provide additional education, insights, tools and resources that will improve people’s lives. Operation HOPE has similar partnerships with financial institutions in other markets.

“First Independence Bank shares our passion and commitment to expand financial literacy in our communities and help consumers and businesses realize their dreams,” said John Hope Bryant, founder & CEO of Operation HOPE.

“When private institutions and community organizations work together to achieve common goals, everyone wins.”

FIB is Minnesota’s first Minority Deposit Institution (MDI) that provides capital, financial services and education to underserved and minority communities. Together with Operation HOPE, FIB will enhance and expand financial wellness and education programs, particularly in unbanked and underbanked communities.

“I’m extremely excited about this partnership and what it means for people and businesses in our local communities,” said Damon Jenkins,

FIB senior vice president & Twin Cities Regional Market President. “A key goal when launching our Twin Cities operations was to provide resources that help close the wealth disparities gap and help individuals improve their credit score. This partnership with Operation HOPE is a great fit and will be an incredible asset to help us reach that goal.”

Financial and community leaders participating in the June 7 announcement and economic round table included:

• John Hope Bryant, founder & CEO, Operation HOPE

• Kenneth Kelly, chairman &

CEO, First Independence Bank

• Damon Jenkins, svp & regional market president, First Independence Bank

• Tawanna Black, founder & CEO, Center for Economic Inclusion

• Renay Dossman, president & CEO, Neighborhood Development Center

• Adair Mosely, president and CEO, African American Leadership Forum

A recap of the roundtable is shared on FIB’s website and social media platforms. More information on the partnership and programs can be found at www.firstindependence.com.