FDIC launches alliance in Northeastern Oklahoma

WASHINGTON

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today launched an Alliance for Economic Inclusion (AEI) initiative in Northeastern Oklahoma in partnership with the Greater Tulsa United Way, tribal, state and federal agencies, financial institutions, and community-based stakeholders.

The FDIC is pleased to join this diverse set of community partners to build financial know-how and to increase access to financial services responsive to the needs of people in northeastern Oklahoma, said Mark Pearce, Director of the FDIC Division of Depositor and Consumer Protection. A collaboration that weaves together the strengths of community financial institutions, tribal nations, non-profits, government agencies, and other local leaders can do much to promote the economic vitality of the communities in this area and to strengthen the financial stability of the families who live here.

United Way Vice President of Community Investments, Sharon Gallagher said financial stability is the bedrock of community vitality. I commend the FDIC for bringing the AEI to northeastern Oklahoma.

Having the FDIC interested in the financial needs of the families, small businesses and tribal nations in these communities speaks volumes and helps to provide a pathway to access banking and other financial services.

The United Way is looking forward to working with the FDIC and our new AEI partners in this effort. This AEI will focus on enhancing consumer financial stability through financial education and access to appropriate credit and deposit services; the technical expertise and capital needed by small businesses to prosper and grow; and the financial needs of Native American populations and their tribes as identified by the leadership of the tribal governments.

Through structured committees and working groups, AEI members will develop and implement strategies to enhance existing resources and increase capacity to fill identified needs.