Southland News

President's Message

Together Today

Many of us, Southland included, were forced to withstand moments of uncertainty this year in ways we have never experienced before. While we couldn’t have predicted all of the challenges we faced in 2020, I believe we can close out the year together as a stronger, more united community. Given the unprecedented circumstances across the world, we took action to keep in touch with our Members regularly with email updates and surveys to simply ask – how are you doing, and how can we help? Thank you to all the Members who responded to our surveys and offered their valuable feedback.

Extending a hand

To date, Southland has served over 2,000 Members with deferrals on their loans. We have also provided over $150,000 in emergency relief loans and more than $600,000 in PPP loans. The Southland team has also delivered more than 3,100 meals, the equivalent of over $23,000, to local hospitals and other first responder organizations across our communities.

Opportunities to smile

Thank you to everyone who took the time to enter our monthly #CUSmile prize giveaways, and congratulations to our winners. We are moved by the overwhelming response and the heartfelt stories we have received. If you are interested in participating, there are three more chances to enter to win a prize in October, November and December this year. See page 10 for more details.

New Visa benefits for you

We are showcasing our new Visa credit cards in this issue of Southland Times. On page 21, you will find an overview of the special Visa credit card benefits we are providing just for you, from October through December. Everyone with a Platinum Visa can earn an extra 10,000 rewards points, and if you transfer a balance to your Southland Visa prior to December 31, your balance transfer fee will be waived.

Commitment to your digital experience

One important lesson we have all learned is that we must be able to connect digitally if we cannot connect in-person. This year we have released some improvements to mobile and online banking, including new security features and design enhancements. These updates are just the beginning of our process toward a better Digital Banking experience for you. Next year, we will share details on our plans to launch a brand-new online banking and mobile app with more of the features you have come to expect from a leading financial institution.

A brighter New Year

If you are interested in getting involved with your community credit union, the nomination period for our Board of Directors and Supervisory Committee is now open. All the details on this process can be found on page 4.

At Southland, we are ready to help you realize a fresh start for 2021 with a hopeful outlook for the future. We are setting goals to continue to improve your experience as a Member. We want to help you set and achieve your goals with financial wellness in mind. Remember that we are here for you as a resource for your financial needs.

On behalf of everyone at Southland Credit Union, I wish you and your family a safe and healthy holiday season.

Thomas G. Lent, CPA

President & CEO

Southland Credit Union