DES MOINES, Iowa — The Iowa Credit Union Foundation is doing its part to spread the word among unbanked Hispanics in Polk County about best financial practices and the existence of credit unions.

Designed to raise awareness, the "Credit Unions: The Best Choice for You!" campaign encourages the underserved Spanish-speaking populations to enter the financial mainstream. The Foundation commissioned Diverse Innovative Solutions to develop a multi-media campaign underwritten by a $10,000 community grant from Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino. "There is a strong need to raise awareness among Latinos about the financial products and services credit unions provide," said Warren Morrow, partner of Diverse Innovative Solutions. "Many Latinos in this area do not understand or trust financial institutions, and it is our mission to break down that barrier to gain their trust." The campaign ran in various Polk County Hispanic media from September through December 2006. Through radio and print media, as well as through strategic distributions of informational materials, the campaign has surpassed the goal of reaching 10,000 Hispanics in the Polk County area.

"The Iowa Credit Union Foundation is committed to promoting consumer financial education to Iowa communities, and this campaign is just one way we are fulfilling our mission," said Mariann Peterson, Iowa Credit Union Foundation chair. "We hope this campaign will be used as a model by all credit unions throughout the state."