Forbes names Westerra best-in-state for second year in a row

DENVER, CO — July 13, 2021 - For the second year in a row, Forbes has named Westerra Credit Union one of the Best-In-State Credit Unions in the United States. Only 3.6% of the 5,068 credit unions nationwide, and only five credit unions in Colorado, were selected for this list.

Forbes partnered with Statista and identified America’s Best-In-State Credit Unions 2021 based on an independent survey of approximately 25,000 U.S. consumers who were asked to rate credit unions at which they have or previously have had checking accounts. Participants made recommendations regarding overall satisfaction; they also assessed credit unions in the following areas: Trust, Terms & Conditions, Branch Services, Digital Services, Customer Service, and Financial Advice.

“Westerra is honored to once again be placed on the prestigious list,” said Westerra President/CEO Jay Champion. “It sincerely means so much to our team that Colorado consumers and Westerra members rank us among the top financial institutions in the state - we are in good company.”

Forbes noted that during the global pandemic, banks and credit unions helped members with relief efforts and low-cost lending options — and that small and midsized financial institutions were some of the most active participants in the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program, helping small businesses nationwide retain staff and survive beyond the pandemic.

“Over the past year we’ve seen our community come together, support one another and make it to the other side of this pandemic,” said Champion. “We feel our credit union has reflected this mentality by implementing relief loans, skip payment options and waived fees for consumers and businesses, including offering the Paycheck Protection Program through the U.S. Small Business Administration that helped get relief for small businesses and their employees. We know there is still a lot of work to do, but we’re inspired by how Coloradan’s have rallied together and appreciate Forbes for recognizing this work.”

In addition to financial services, Westerra also takes pride in their community engagement. Started by teachers 87 years ago, the credit union continues to carry their educational purpose forward through in-person and virtual consultations, financial checkups, online resources, and open forum discussions on topics like helping kids learn good financial habits, buying a first home, starting a business, retirement planning and everything in between.

Westerra also started a school grant program over a decade ago as a nod to its roots. Since the inception of The School Grant Program, Westerra has given over $500,000 in grants to more than 1000 Denver metro area school programs.

“Supporting our neighbors through their big life moments is at the core of Westerra’s DNA. We do this throughout every vertical of our business; our entire team strives to make sure our members and their families always feel supported,” said Champion. “This acknowledgement from Forbes fuels our mission: To positively impact lives through personal attention and financial education.”

To find about more about this recognition and to see what other financial institutions made the list, please visit: Forbes The Best Banks And Credit Unions In Every State 2021.