September was nothing short of inspiring for Actors FCU. As a credit union built by and for the creative community, we are constantly reminded that our mission goes far beyond financial services. It is about supporting artists, amplifying their voices, and standing beside them as they work on their craft. This month, we had the privilege of being part of two powerful events that celebrated creativity, empowerment, and resilience in unique but deeply connected ways.
As a credit union built by and for the creative community, we are constantly reminded that our mission goes far beyond financial services. It is about supporting artists, amplifying their voices, and standing beside them as they work on their craft. This month, we had the privilege of being part of two powerful events that celebrated creativity, empowerment, and resilience in unique but deeply connected ways.
We started the month with the Actor Empowerment Summit at CineCity Studios Chicago, an event that brought together actors, creators, and advocates for a weekend of inspiration and collaboration. Our CEO, Chuck Brown, Senior Marketing Manager, Yvana Ellison, and Chicago Member Services Supervisor, Ajla Rizvanbegovic, were on hand to connect with attendees, share resources, and engage in meaningful conversations with the artists who make our community so vibrant.
The summit featured thought-provoking panels, insightful workshops, and plenty of one-on-one conversations where stories were shared and connections were built. What stood out most was the sense of community: the way actors lifted each other up, celebrated one another’s journeys, and created bonds that will extend far beyond the event itself.
For Actors FCU, this was a reminder of why we do what we do. It is not just about offering financial services. It is about being present, listening, and supporting artists as they dream, grow, and navigate the challenges of their careers. We left Chicago inspired, energized, and more committed than ever to building a future where every artist feels empowered to thrive.
Later in the month, our Marketing and Consumer Lending team represented Actors FCU at Climate Week’s Creators Take On Climate & Mental Health event, held at Rockefeller Center in New York City. This gathering highlighted an important but often overlooked connection: the relationship between climate change, mental health, and community resilience.
The event brought together creators, thought leaders, and advocates to explore how the creative community can play a role in addressing the mental and emotional toll of the climate crisis. These conversations resonated deeply with us. Just as artists need support in their careers, communities need support in facing global challenges that affect well-being on every level.
We were reminded of the meaning of true support, which is acknowledging the interconnected challenges our members face, whether personal, professional, or societal, and showing up where those conversations happen.
Though different in focus, both events reflected a powerful common thread: the importance of connection. In both spaces, we witnessed the strength of community and the transformative impact of coming together.
For us at Actors FCU, these experiences reaffirmed that our work is about more than banking. It is about being a partner in the journeys of artists, creators, and advocates. It is about uplifting communities through education, empowerment, and empathy. And it is about standing alongside our members not just in their financial lives, but in the moments that shape their futures.
As we look ahead, we carry the inspiration of these September gatherings with us. We are proud to have been part of events that foster creativity, empower individuals, and spark important conversations. And we are even more excited about what is next as we continue building a stronger, more connected creative community together.
