UMassFive’s Compass Program and Money Guides
Article published in Northampton Living
(July 2024)
At UMassFive, understanding our community’s financial needs has always been our top priority.
Most often, this takes place through meaningful conversations with our members as part of our focused, personalized service.
Money Guides Help Members Map Their Financial Journey
Embodying this spirit to empower our members, we are proud to offer our newly launched Compass Financial Pathways program. Leading this free program are our Money Guides, who teach our members how to create and manage a budget, plan to pay down debt or improve credit, set goals, or navigate any financial challenge that life throws at them. We understand that the path to financial well-being can be a long one, and our Money Guides are prepared to work with our members over a number of meetings and review their progress along the way.
Our Compass Program Runs on Resources
Our 8 newly minted Money Guides have years of member service experience, and they are certified through the Credit Union National Association’s Financial Counseling program. After a lengthy self-study program, in-classroom hours, and a 100-question certification exam, they are excited to use their comprehensive knowledge to assist members, whether they are just starting out on their journey to financial well-being, or are already on a particular path.
With their in-depth knowledge of all UMassFive services, Money Guides are also able to provide referrals to other departments as appropriate, whether it be our Financial & Investment Services team to discuss long-term retirement and investment options, our Member Services team if financing or debt consolidation is desired, or our team at GreenPath for more intensive situations like a debt management plan.
We are so proud of these employees and their long-term commitment to helping our members meet their financial goals.
Want to Meet with a Money Guide?
Interested in ongoing, one-on-one assistance with personal finance? Meet with one of our Money Guides in-branch or remotely for a financial health check, and to establish action items for any of your financial goals.
We see our Compass program as a great, no-cost resource for members seeking to improve their financial well-being in many capacities, and we encourage our members to take advantage of this wonderful program. If you’re not a member yet, we hope that this provides even more incentive to join us; we can’t wait to work with you.
umassfive.coop to learn more or book a Money Guide appointment today!