For its service to the underserved, ASI Federal Credit Union was recently honored with the Small Business Administration’s Financial Services Champion of the Year award.
Mignhon Tourné, president/CEO of the $293 million ASI FCU in Harahan, La., received the honor, according to the credit union.
ASI said it was recognized for its commitment to serving the underserved, promoting economic empowerment and providing financial products and services to people with little or no credit. The credit union has 14 branches, including two dedicated to low-income Spanish-speaking members and low-income Vietnamese-speaking members. A community development financial institution, ASI serves 75,000 members.
After Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf region in 2005, under Tourné’s leadership, ASI deployed nearly $20 million in grants and low-rate interest loans to disadvantaged small business owners, according to the credit union. In the past, ASI had also piloted its own Web-based peer-to-peer micro loan fund.
National Small Business Week 2011 will be celebrated during the week of May 15. Tourné and the other SBA business champions will be honored at a reception. During this week of events, SBA said it will highlight the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners and those who support and champion small business from all 50 states and U.S. territories.
