Employee's phone call helps CU step up for member

GREENSBORO, N.C. (11/13/06)--Renee Valentine knew just how much Henry Skinner needed a $400 loan from Generations Community CU to buy special therapeutic shoes.

So when the loan committee turned down Skinner's application in the summer of 2005, the recently hired member service representative called President Maureen Lucas to explain why the community development credit union should reverse its decision.

Lucas praised Valentine for taking the extra step needed to help Skinner stay on his feet (North Carolina News Nov. 7). Valentine's passionate explanation of Skinner's need helped the committee reconsider Skinner's application to the Durham, N.C., credit union.

A Hertford resident, Skinner is a former lumber mill worker who was forced to quit when he lost feeling in his feet due to a medical condition. A neurologist recommended therapeutic shoes to provide additional support for Skinner, who uses a walker.

When Skinner learned that he would get the loan, he paid $15 to get a ride to nearby Edenton to personally thank the staff at the credit union branch. Skinner paid off his loan ahead of schedule and still wears the sneaker-style shoes every day.

Skinner's situation is a reminder of the importance of offering affordable financial services that give hope to members, Lucas said. While credit scores can be helpful, she added that character counts the most.

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