Financial Plus Credit Union Launches Youth Certificate Inspired by CU Spark Tank Innovation
Financial Plus Credit Union has launched a new Youth Certificate developed from an idea presented at the Michigan Credit Union League’s CU Spark Tank competition. The concept was created by Jordin Haskin, Senior Project Manager at Financial Plus, who earned first place at the Crossroads Chapter level before advancing to the statewide semi-finals at the League’s Annual Convention and Exposition in Grand Rapids.
Haskin’s idea was rooted in her experience as a parent seeking a flexible way to save for her children’s future goals.
“I wanted to start saving for my kids, Lily and Landon, but not just for college,” she said. “What if their dreams take them down a different path? I don’t want to limit their possibilities before they even have a chance to discover their passions.”
Her concept led to the development of the Financial Plus Youth Certificate, which launched October 1 for members age 24 and under. The certificate offers 4.00% APY on a 12-month term with no minimum balance requirement. Members may add funds at any time and make a one-time withdrawal without penalty, providing families flexibility as they save for a range of future opportunities.
“Jordin’s journey from concept to product launch demonstrates the power of creating a culture that empowers employees to innovate and shape the member experience,” said DeAnna Wallace, Chief Human Resources Officer and SVP of Member Experience. “Her idea has become a solution that directly benefits our youngest members and their families.”
CU Spark Tank is designed to highlight emerging leaders and encourage new ideas within the credit union movement. For Haskin, the program served as the catalyst that helped bring her concept to life.
“What began as a simple idea to help my own family has grown into a product that will help other families save for their children’s dreams,” Haskin said. “That’s what had made this journey so meaningful.”
The Youth Certificate is now available to Financial Plus members and individuals interested in joining the credit union. Haskin and Derek Lewis, Financial Wellness Specialist, recently discussed the new certificate on WNEM TV5 News.
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