The Journey to Financial Freedom Takes Grit and Asking for Help | My Member Story

Denisse Garcia works hard for every penny she earns. As a full-time landscape foreman and single mom, Denisse is in charge of many aspects of her life, including her finances. But this was not always the case.

Working hard to support a family

After her divorce, Denisse needed to find a job so she could support and care for her three daughters. In 2018 she was hired on with a landscaping company, which is difficult work! Denisse loved her job because she got to be outside every day. Over the years she moved up the ranks of this male-dominated industry to become a foreman. Responsible for the crew and success of each landscaping project, Denisse always makes sure the job is done right.

Focus on finances

When Denisse was married, she didn’t handle any of the family finances. That all changed once she became single. She opened her own accounts and started learning the basics. But as she was getting her financial footing, she was hit with fee after fee from her bank. Eventually Denisse decided enough is enough.

A friend suggested she try Mountain America Credit Union. Denisse switched her accounts to Mountain America and hasn’t looked back since! She appreciates how the credit union is structured to help their members.

Denisse has a goal to buy a home, but she knew her credit needed some help. She connected with one of Mountain America’s financial guides, Becky Beckstead, to craft a plan to raise her credit score. “It can feel embarrassing to discuss your financial situation,” said Denisse. “But here, it was a no judgment zone.”

Over the last year and a half, Denisse has worked with Becky to increase her credit score from 540 to 745!* She couldn’t be happier, knowing she is in a better place to support her family and plan for her future.

Preparing the next generation

It took some time for Denisse to get her finances under control and learn how to be intentional with her money. Now she’s helping her daughters create a solid foundation for their financial futures.

Looking forward

With her newfound financial knowledge, Denisse is not only saving to buy a home; she’s also starting to think about retirement. Denisse is working with Becky and using Mountain America’s retirement planning resources to financially secure her golden years.

Denisse completely transformed her financial situation and is now well on her way to achieve her goals. “My experience makes me want to be a better person. It makes me want to do better things,” said Denisse. “I will always strive to be more financially responsible myself and make sure my girls are financially responsible as well.”

We’re glad to be on this journey with you, Denisse! We’re so proud of how far you’ve come and can’t wait for the day when you unlock the door to your new home.