This week I learned that our “eco-bank” is now One PacificCoast Bank. The acquisition and merger of
ShoreBank Pacific with a community bank OneCalifornia Bank
wasn’t altogether surprising, since the original Chicago-based ShoreBank closed last summer. But it stills makes me feel a lack of control over our own money, and I certainly hope that the sum will be greater than the parts. I also hope they’ll be able to dominate community lending and invest more people’s money in solving community and environmental issues.
From the media release: “Together we can bring the value of sustainability to a broader audience and
provide greater opportunities for employees, as well as the communities that
OneCalifornia Bank and ShoreBank Pacific serve,” said David Williams, CEO of
ShoreBank Pacific.
Last spring we made what for us was a
pretty big decision to merge our funds
to ShoreBank Pacific. We’ve been very happy with our choice, and banking solely online has been really convenient…though it’s kind of funny that their branch doesn’t even have an ATM!
At a recent new year’s party (celebrated like true families at E.S.T.), I got into a conversation about the benefits or reasons for switching from a corporate bank to a community bank or credit union. One couple was considering switching banks, but wondered what was in it for them. I told them a bit about our story, and another friend chimed in about why they choose credit unions. I was honest in saying that switching banks is a total pain the neck, but that I feel better know that our money is being invested in projects I would support, sectors like alternative energy, specialty agriculture, specialty fish, and green building
. It’s really a feel good choice, but there’s no real financial benefit of sticking with a corporate bank. Now I can see the fruits of my labor in local projects, and remember that we are all connected.
Are you a customer of a community bank or credit union?
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Sustainable Family Finances
The story of a family creating an abundant and sustainable life.
Hello!
I live in Oakland, CA and am considering One PacificCoast Bank. How has your experience been with them?
I own a small biz requiring QuickBooks connect so finding a credit union or local community bank with this support has been challenging. OPC Bank appears to be my only choice.
We’ve had a great experience so far. I really like the fact that they fund local and sustainable project. Well, since they merged, they actually support along the whole west coast, but they still have a good barometer for entrepreneurial projects with social benefits. I think your switch will prove worth while.