Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Gateway Metro Federal Credit Union
Gateway Metro Federal Credit Union’s founding is based on the simple but powerful principle of “People Helping People”. To this point, our mission statement is “Helping People Realize Their Financial Potential!”
From the early days of our beginnings as a credit union, individuals came together to establish a financial cooperative when the founding members saw the predatory lending practices placing overwhelming financial burdens on families and individuals which were making day to day living difficult.
Changes had to be made, better options to improve the financial lives of our community were needed. So, the vision was set, “People Helping People”
Our work continues today. Changing times are creating awareness for the need of even more diversity and inclusion. We see our differences and the recognition and acceptance of all differences is vital to creating an environment which fosters growth, creativity and belonging.
Our Commitment to St. Louis Diversity & Inclusion
As a financial organization with a desire to help every individual reach their financial potential, our values as an organization are:
- A commitment to safety and welfare
- Striving to provide an excellent experience
- Investing time and resources to enhance our members’ lives
- Working together as one team
These values are the footing upon which our four pillars are established as we look to build a diverse, equitable and inclusive (DEI) environment. These four pillars are: Our Members, Our Staff, Our Content and Our Community. Our focus with our DEI program is to promote financial health, financial soundness and financial literacy to individuals, groups and the community at large who are in need of assistance. We believe the empowerment brought to our community by financial knowledge and understanding is vital to creating equality and ensuring no one is taken advantage of or treated differently.
Our Four DEI Pillars
Supporting Our Community
Our goal is to align with other organizations that also promote DEI and lend support in education regarding financial literacy so all individuals have access to knowledge and tools to support them in becoming financially healthy. We look to partner with vendors who also have formal DEI programs or initiatives focusing on improving our business communities.
Investing in Our Staff
We look to maintain a diverse group of employees and look to provide ongoing training specifically focused on DEI topics.
Serving Our Members
As a member-owned organization, we ensure:
All account and lending interactions comply with regulations and laws as set forth by the federal and state governments. We will carefully review internal processes and strive to eliminate unconscious bias regarding handling of all interactions.
Creating Inclusive Content
We will ensure programs are made available to all members and potential members with focus on the underserved.
Financial Literacy & Education Programs
Gateway Metro Federal Credit Union is committed to providing access to financial literacy knowledge resources and tools.
We have on staff several individuals who are Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors who are available to sit down with our members to review their financial situation, propose plans to improve their financial outlook, and provide support as they work toward meeting financial goals.
We have partnered with industry-leading BALANCE to provide you with free access to expertly-crafted financial education and resources to help with your fiscal matters. And should you need, BALANCE can assist with confidential, no-cost financial counseling services to help you develop a sensible budget managing spending and debt. For all your financial life stage changes and more, we—in partnership with BALANCE—are here to help.
Community Outreach in St. Louis
2025
Annie’s Hope -Butterfly Project Selected Organization
St Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra Sponsor
Education Sessions: Pathways School-Belleville, IL
Education Sessions: St Louis City Library Financial Literacy Youth Focus
2024
LoveU2Pieces-Butterfly Project Donation Recipient
St Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra Sponsor
Education Session: Harris Stowe State University Athletics
2023
St Louis Crisis Nursery-Butterfly Project Donation Recipient
St Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra Sponsor
The Little Bit Foundation What’s Next Fair
Harris Stowe State University Athletics Sponsorship & SWARM Awards