WeStreet Credit Union
SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
By Camile Carlson, WeStreet
In the heart of Northeast Oklahoma, a financial institution stands as a testament to community values and commitment to its members. Formerly known as Tulsa Federal Credit Union, WeStreet Credit Union has rebranded itself as a beacon of community support and financial empowerment. As Greg Gallant, CEO of WeStreet, aptly puts it, "WeStreet is all about helping neighbors become members and members become family."
Founded on August 6, 1943, by six federal employees who pooled their savings in a cigar box, WeStreet Credit Union has come a long way. With over 56,000 members and counting, it has blossomed into a community-chartered credit union, offering membership to anyone within its 11 Counties with just a $5 Share Deposit.
At the core of WeStreet's operation is the spirit of democracy and member ownership. The board of directors is elected by members, giving them the power to shape the credit union's policies, priorities, and future. Over the years, generations of members have passed down investments, savings, and financial knowledge to their loved ones, making WeStreet a cherished part of their family legacy.
WeStreet Credit Union, with its 14 convenient locations and $950 million in assets, is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the Oklahoma counties it serves. A vital component of this institution is the mortgage department, which has played an instrumental role in guiding individuals and families on their home-buying journeys. “WeStreet's mortgage loan officers (MLOs) not only possess expertise in their field but are also deeply connected to the communities in and around Tulsa, understanding the neighborhoods, schools, and people,” says Gallant.
WeStreet’s trusted team of mortgage loan officers share their insights and experiences:
Zach Ackley, with 15 years of MLO experience, finds great satisfaction in helping first-time homebuyers and members save money through refinancing. He shared, "It's always nice to welcome people from out of town. I live in Midtown, so I love to help people find homes in an area that I have become so familiar with."
Blake Thomas, with 12 years in the field, takes pride in guiding first-time homebuyers through the purchase process. He finds his role rewarding, saying, "It feels like you become part of communities all over town, especially when you can help multiple families in the same neighborhood."
Claudia Shelly with over six years as an MLO, works with a variety of people and delights in earning their trust. She understands the importance of having a bilingual expert to guide buyers through the home-buying process and teach them that homeownership is attainable. She emphasizes the joy of helping families find their dream homes in perfect neighborhoods, schools, and beyond. “It is so rewarding to earn the trust of the people I help. I also enjoy teaching them and proving to them that it is possible to close on a house and own their own home. Everyone can reach their goals!”
Debra Salazar, with over 15 years of experience with WeStreet and four years of experience as an MLO, is passionate about WeStreet's First Home Mortgage program, which helps working-class families own homes by making the process more affordable. She takes pride in assisting those who once thought that home ownership was unattainable build generational wealth and escape financial hardship. “I love our First Home Mortgage program. Closing costs and down payment have become so expensive that most “working class” families can’t afford a home. This program makes that possible. I also find it very rewarding to help first-generation families and single moms buy homes. Owning a home creates generational wealth and gives families a chance to move from the struggling working class to the middle class. I love being part of the home buying process and helping people get out of tough financial situations.”
WeStreet Credit Union's commitment to its members and the communities it serves goes beyond financial transactions; it's about supporting dreams, creating opportunities, and building lasting legacies. In the words of CEO Greg Gallant, "Our story is a story of community, empowerment, and family, and we are excited to continue this journey with all of our members."
