Greater Texas Credit Union President & CEO on How Credit Unions Can Pool Resources to Help Community Members in Need

September 29, 2021

Q: What motivates Greater Texas Credit Union to be involved with The House that Credit Unions Built?

A: Credit union organizations have cultures that sincerely love and embrace charitable work and community support. Thus, credit unions are friendly competitors who willingly share best practices, work together for the benefit of the credit union movement and members, and very frequently pool community support and resources to grow our collective impact to help folks in need in our communities. The House that Credit Union’s Build is a perfect manifestation of credit unions’ philosophy and values, especially Austin credit unions.

Q: When you think of Austin Habitat what do you think of?

A: I think of Austin Habitat’s seasoned and effective leadership: a group of executives and managers with keen business acumen, laser-focused on their mission.  I think of a creative and proven business model that engages and delivers value to beneficiaries, community leaders, and supporters.  Ultimately, I think of folks moving into their homes, folks who very likely never envisioned a path to homeownership before Austin Habitat.

Howard Engaging With Area Credit Unions at the 2020 Stud Signing & 2021 Wall Raising Ceremonies 

 

Q: How has the affordable housing crisis impacted the work that you do?

A: Housing affordability certainly impacts our members, and thus, impacts Greater Texas and the work we do in the office and while volunteering on-site.  Homeownership “locks in” housing costs to a large extent; however, for folks who are not already homeowners, purchase prices and rental rates frequently are increasing faster than their household incomes, thus reducing disposable income and financial security as housing costs continue to rise.

Q: If there is something that you would want this year’s homeowner to know what would it be?

A: You’re in a community that cares about your well-being, and with Austin Habitat as the facilitator, you are in good hands.

Howard with the Greater Texas Credit Union Team at the 2021 Wall Raising Ceremony with Future Homeowner, Crystal

Q: Of the seven cooperative principles which of them are exampled through this build?

A: Economic Participation – Improving the economic participation of members and individuals in the communities we serve. Homeownership moves the needle for families, as housing cost volatility is reduced while the chances of long-term financial independence are enhanced.

Thank you to our Credit Union Partners that help us build affordable housing!

 

Greater Texas Credit Union on the Austin Habitat Construction Site

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