Starting it off can you share about a timely event  Back to School Extravaganza. We understand It’s almost time to get back to school and we know how important it is for students to have the items they need to start the school year off right.

 

We were together recently for a celebration of some individuals as LAFCU Awarded $10K to Essay Contest Winners, Support Debt Reduction Financial Goals, remind the business community about that?

 

This course is now in its fifth year—what inspired LAFCU to create the Pathway to Financial Transformation program, and how has it evolved since 2020?

 

The program has helped participants improve credit scores, pay off debt, and build savings. Can you share a success story that really stands out to you?

 

Why is it important that the course be free and open to all Michigan residents, regardless of credit union membership?

LAFCU opens enrollment for free financial education course through Sept. 1

Program empowers adults across the state to develop lifelong money skills and financial confidence

LANSING, Mich. — LAFCU is now accepting enrollment for its free Pathway to Financial Transformation course, a hybrid personal finance program that is open to all Michigan residents, regardless of credit union membership. Now in its fifth year, the course equips adults of any age with practical tools and insights to help improve money management, build financial stability, and gain confidence in their financial decision-making.

To enroll in LAFCU’s free, comprehensive personal finance course, visit lafcu.com/pathway by Sept. 1.

The comprehensive course will meet virtually every other Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m., starting Sept. 11, 2025, through April 2, 2026, excluding holidays. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend one in-person session at LAFCU headquarters in Lansing during the semester and will celebrate their achievements at a cap-and-gown graduation ceremony in April (left).

Topics covered include budgeting, saving, credit building, lending, investing, first-time homebuying, and how diversity, equity, and inclusion impact financial decision-making. Sessions are led by LAFCU professionals in lending, collections, insurance, DEI, and investments, along with guest experts in financial counseling, homebuying, wellness, and more.

“This course creates space for people to reflect, learn, and grow,” said Shelia Scott, LAFCU community financial education and business development officer and course leader (left). “We’ve designed it to be welcoming, accessible, and practical—no matter where someone is starting from. Everyone deserves the chance to thrive financially, and we’re proud to offer a program that makes that possible.”

Over the past five years, course graduates have shared life-changing outcomes, including credit score increases of more than 100 points, paying off tens of thousands in debt, opening savings accounts for their children, and building long-term financial plans.

“As a credit union, we believe in helping people—regardless of their background or membership status—access the tools they need to take control of their financial future,” said Kelli Ellsworth Etchision, chief marketing officer and chief diversity officer at LAFCU. “Offering this course at no cost is one of the most meaningful ways we live out our mission. It’s not just about managing money today—it’s about empowering people to change the trajectory of their lives and families for generations.”

LAFCU’s Pathway to Financial Transformation course began in 2020 as part of the credit union’s longstanding commitment to financial education and service to people of modest means. The course continues to evolve and expand its reach, serving as a model for how community-focused financial institutions can drive real impact.

About LAFCU

Founded in 1936, LAFCU (pronounced laugh-cue) is a not-for-profit, member-owned credit union open to all who live, work, worship or attend school in Michigan, and to Michigan businesses. LAFCU serves more than 74,000 members and holds over $1 billion in assets. With a particular focus on serving people of modest means, LAFCU is committed to enhancing its members’ financial well-being and creating long-lasting positive change across generations. Awarded the prestigious Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award, LAFCU is known for its people-helping-people mission, which has led to award-winning financial literacy programs for all ages. Twice honored as a national ‘Best Credit Union to Work For’ and recognized globally for its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, LAFCU stands out for its commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. Learn more at www.lafcu.com.

 

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Photo captions

LAFCU Shelia Scott.jpg — Shelia Scott, LAFCU’s community financial education and business development officer, leads the eight-month Pathway to Financial Transformation course.

LAFCU 2024-2025 Graduation.jpg- Graduates of LAFCU’s 2024-25 Pathway to Financial Transformation program celebrate at a lively cap and gown ceremony. Interested adults are encouraged to register by Sept. 1, for this free course.