United Way of Erie County and Directions Credit Union are partnering together on a new podcast initiative called “Spilling the Trust,” focused on financial empowerment, community conversations and youth engagement throughout Erie County, according to a news release.
The podcast series builds upon a strong year of financial empowerment initiatives connected to the United for ALICE movement, including VITA/TCE tax preparation services and United Way’s Financial Literacy Workshop Series.
Each effort intentionally has focused on incorporating youth into meaningful leadership opportunities and real-world community engagement.
“Spilling the Trust” will create space for authentic conversations surrounding finances, financial wellness, community challenges, opportunity and collaboration, according to the release.
The initiative also will serve as an opportunity to introduce Directions Credit Union to the Sandusky and Erie County community in a meaningful and relationship-centered way as the organization continues expanding its presence within the region, the release said.
Logo for the United for ALICE podcast. (Submitted)
The podcast also represents the second podcast initiative launched through United Way of Erie County, following the organization’s “Healing Connections” podcast series focused on mental health, addiction recovery, resilience and community healing.
United Way of Erie County has incorporated several young leaders into the series, including Alexandria Huffer of Huron High School; Sandusky High School senior Elijah Murri; and young professional Garrett Jackson, alongside members of the Directions Credit Union team.
“I believe being part of the process builds leadership and helps us absorb information better,” said E.J. Brinson, executive director of United Way of Erie County, in the release. “This podcast gives us an opportunity to bring together multiple perspectives and generations to have honest conversations surrounding finances and community.
“At the same time, it creates an authentic opportunity for the community to get to know Directions Credit Union beyond banking — through conversations, relationships and shared investment in people. When youth are included in the work, they begin to see themselves as leaders capable of creating impact.”
Jenni Paramore, community impact manager at Directions Credit Union, said the effort is helping people in the community.
“Addressing financial health requires more than products — it requires partnership, understanding and community voice,” Paramore said in the release. “Together with United Way, we’re helping ALICE households move from survival to stability.”
Alexandria Huffer is one of the participating students involved in the initiative.
“I think it’s important to give back to the community because it’s our youth, elderly and everyone in-between,” Huffer said in the release. “Giving back and helping the community helps people in need and makes our city a better place.
“Watching my father interact with the community and help make a difference, really inspires me to want to give back and help. For teenagers the opportunities are out there, you just have to leave your comfort zone and ask questions.
“Giving back not only helps the community, it also helps you build your future as well.”
Initial episodes of “Spilling the Trust” will include:
• Episode 1 — “Introducing Directions Credit Union and the Partnership”
• Episode 2 — “Building a Financial Foundation”
• Episode 3 — “Why Credit Unions Matter”
• Episode 4 — “Tools and Resources That Help People Move Forward”
The initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening community relationships, increasing access to financial empowerment conversations, and creating opportunities for emerging leaders to engage directly in meaningful work, the release said.
Additional podcast details, episode releases and community engagement opportunities will be announced in the near future.