Getting Financial Help in Spanish

It was our first time asking for a loan, and it went so great.

I had an appointment with Ruth at UW Credit Union’s Pier 37 branch in Monona. She was so wonderful, able to guide us and tell us what the process is for our auto loan. Whenever we had a question, she was able to answer and explain things in detail. She took her time and made sure all our questions were answered. She was never in a rush and wanted to make sure we were completely comfortable.

It was a great experience the way we were treated with Ruth. And when she wasn’t available, Hugo helped us. He was able to talk to the people who sold the car to help make the process easier. He even called me later, because the DMV is taking more time than usual due to the pandemic, to explain if I don’t receive my license plates in a month to let him know and we can get more temporary plates.

I remember this time I was at the branch and I saw Ruth walking her clients to the door. It’s a great gesture; it’s the small things that show that’s a person I can trust.

We’ve been with UWCU for two years now. I have this old friend who recommended it to us and said, "It’s great, you should try it." Now I recommend UWCU to my friends who I know are looking for an account or loan. I know that some Spanish speakers are afraid to go because of the language barrier, some don’t know where to go or how to start. It's good to know that people who are not English speakers can get the help they need.

In the Latino community, sometimes we don’t want to ask questions or are afraid to speak. Maybe people have doubts or are afraid someone will take advantage of them. So when it’s in our language we can feel more comfortable and confident. It’s important that the financial counselor has patience, takes time to explain everything, says “Is there anything else?” and makes sure there are no doubts.

I was so grateful to meet Ruth and Hugo. They were able to talk to us in Spanish and be like a family – I felt very welcome.