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Simplot Employees Credit Union joined with other banks and credit unions in the Treasure Valley to teach financial education through the United Way of Treasure Valley. SECU CEO, Val Brooks, has been on the steering committee, ciriculum committee, and data and outcomes committee for this initiative. As the former President of the Idaho Financial Literacy Coaltion; Brooks brought knowledge and insight into the process. She also worked to encourage her counterparts at other credit unions to participate as well as inviting the Idaho Department of Finance to participate. Brooks and two of her employees, David Hiatt, Loan Manager; and Michael Torres, Loan Officer also participate as teachers (Michael is� qualified and ready� to teach the classes in Spanish). Participants learn about the various financial institutions available to them, learn about accounts, savings, budgeting, and credit. When they complete the courses they can open a \Bank On\" account with one of the participating financial institutions. These accounts are often first time checking accounts or� second chance accounts. Brooks said that � \"Even though we are a more closed field of membership credit union - and not all participants are even eligible to join our credit union -� it is important for us to participate in outreach to� our communities and help teach financial education.\"