The Financial Access Federal Credit Union (Financial Access), a Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution headquartered in Manatee County, was recently recognized in the “Best of the Best” in the Bradenton Herald’s 2023 People’s Choice awards. Every year, the Bradenton Herald invites readers to vote for their favorite service providers in a variety of businesses. “We’re honored to be recognized as one of the best credit unions in the region,” says Sherod Halliburton, CEO of Financial Access. “We deeply appreciate the votes of confidence that made this possible. I thank our dedicated team for their unwavering commitment to our mission and to the greater community for their trust in us.” According to Halliburton, Financial Access’ core focus has remained unchanged since it was established as a not-for-profit financial cooperative in 1958. “Our mission is to strengthen the local community by partnering with local businesses and providing access to affordable, high-quality financial products and services,” he says. “That’s why we’re here.” Halliburton adds that Financial Access’ mission remains the same in good times and bad. “Our members depend on us to keep their businesses going, hold onto their homes, and deal with medical bills. I’m very proud of our team’s unfaltering commitment to community empowerment through financial inclusion.”