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About Point West

Learn about our journey as Portland’s member-owned cooperative and our mission to bring financial inclusion to all.

Our Impact and Mission

We’re focused on empowering marginalized communities through affordable financial services, innovative products, and strong partnerships. Our mission is built on equity and inclusion.

Reward

Juntos Avanzamos & CDFI Designations

Our commitment to serving diverse and underserved communities has earned Point West two prestigious designations: Juntos Avanzamos and Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) certification*

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$2 Million in Small Business Grants

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Point West Credit Union became a vital financial resource for underrepresented communities and local small businesses. Partnering with local government agencies, we facilitated the distribution of $2 million in emergency small business grants through Business Oregon.

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120 PPP Loans

In response to the pandemic’s economic impact, Point West acted swiftly to support small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). We distributed 120 PPP loans, averaging $15,000 each, to businesses in need.

*The Juntos Avanzamos designation recognizes our dedication to providing culturally relevant financial services and support to the Hispanic community. Meanwhile, our CDFI certification reflects our ongoing mission to offer affordable, equitable financial products and services to underserved populations. These designations not only validate our efforts but also reinforce our commitment to economic justice and financial empowerment for all members, regardless of background or circumstance.

Our History

Point West Credit Union began in 1934 as Multnomah County Employees Credit Union, serving as a financial cooperative for county employees. Over the decades, we expanded our membership and mission, merging with the NAACP Credit Union in 1991 and Hacienda Community Credit Union in 2005. These partnerships deepened our commitment to serving underrepresented communities across the Portland metro area.

During the Great Recession, we witnessed the challenges faced by marginalized communities in accessing financial services. This inspired a pivotal shift in our mission, becoming a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in 2013. Our focus on affordable, inclusive financial services led to milestones such as achieving Low Income Designation (LID), expanding our charter, and receiving the prestigious Juntos Avanzamos designation in recognition of our support for the Hispanic community.

Throughout the years, Point West has consistently championed economic justice and empowerment, offering products like ITIN and fee-based loans, micro-lending, and Individual Development Accounts (IDAs). The COVID-19 pandemic tested our commitment, but we stood strong, providing critical small business loans and emergency relief while remaining a trusted resource for underrepresented groups.

Today, we continue to expand our reach and impact, helping individuals and small businesses achieve financial stability and success. Together with our members and community partners, we remain dedicated to fostering a more inclusive, equitable financial system for all.

Mom and son

1934 – Founded as Multco Employees Credit Union.

1991 – Merged with NAACP Credit Union.

2005 – Merged with Hacienda Community Credit Union.

2013 CDFI designation & Low Income Designation (LID).

2016 Juntos Avanzamos designation.