Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union has found a true community champion in Sam Parra, their first bilingual Community Relations Officer. Sam’s role is pivotal, bringing a new level of inclusivity and engagement to the credit union, and his efforts are already making a significant impact in the Salem area and across several counties in Oregon.
Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union, originally founded as Oregon Employees Federal Credit Union in 1964, has a rich history of serving the financial needs of state and city employees in Salem. In 2003, it opened its doors to the public, and a decade later, in 2013, it rebranded to its current name, reflecting its broader community focus. This evolution highlights Heritage Grove’s commitment to growth and adaptation in serving its members.
Photo: Sam Parra, Bilingual Community Relations Officer with Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union, is ready to serve you.
Sam Parra’s journey to Heritage Grove is rooted in his heritage and personal experiences. Born and raised in Napa Valley, California, Sam’s family history is intertwined with the Bracero Program, a significant labor initiative during World War II. His grandparents came to the United States through this program, working in agriculture in the vineyard industry, a sector vital to both his family’s history and the Oregon economy.
Before joining Heritage Grove, Sam accumulated a wealth of experience, particularly in roles that involved community engagement and support. This background made him an ideal candidate for Heritage Grove when they sought a new Community Relations Officer who could connect with the Hispanic community and other diverse groups.
As the Community Relations Officer, Sam’s duties are extensive and impactful. He covers a wide region, including Benton, Clackamas, Linn, Marion, Polk, Washington, and Yamhill counties. His primary goal is to build relationships and foster trust within these communities. Sam’s bilingual abilities are crucial in this role, allowing Heritage Grove to better serve non-English speaking members and ensure that everyone has access to their financial services.
One of the key areas Sam focuses on is ITIN loans. These loans, available to individuals who have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, but not a social security number, are a lifeline for many, including significant Hispanic and Eastern European populations in the area. “We work with ITIN loans for vehicle loans, home loans, and more,” Sam explains. “This includes a large community in Woodburn from Russia and Ukraine who benefit from these services.”
A fundamental difference between Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union and corporate banks is their non-profit status. While banks are for-profit institutions with boards making decisions for stakeholders, credit unions like Heritage Grove are member-driven. “At a credit union, you’re a member, not just an account holder,” Sam says. “Our members have a voice in the decisions, with each member having an equal vote regardless of their deposits or loans.”
Heritage Grove also stands out through its community-focused initiatives. For example, their referral program not only rewards members but also supports reforestation efforts in the Santiam State Forest donating $25 per member referral to the Oregon Forestry Department, aiding recovery to the areas that were devastated by the 2020 fires.
On March 15, 2024, Sam, along with some of his co-workers participated in these reforestation activities, joining Oregon Department of Forestry employees and Career Technical Education Center (CTEC) students to plant trees, reflecting the hands-on approach of the credit union. Additionally, lunch for the 83 students and staff who participated was provided by Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union.
Photo: Armando Garcia (L) and Sam Parra (R)
Sam is deeply involved in local community events and organizations. He is a member of the Latino Business Alliance and actively participates in various professional events, from Wilsonville to Eugene, and even Portland. “Heritage Grove doesn’t want me to shy away from any opportunity to connect with our community,” he notes.
Outside of his professional role, Sam enjoys the local flavors of Salem. “My favorite restaurant is La Vida Katrina,” he shares. His commitment to community extends to his personal life, as he co-chairs the board of the nonprofit organization, AHIVOY, (AH-ee-voy) which is short for Asociación Hispana de la Industria del Vino en Oregon y Comunidad, and is Spanish for “Here I go.” Sam is proud of the work AHIVOY is doing in partnership with Chemeketa Community College and Linfield University to provide 17 weeks of professional training and education for “vineyard stewards,” AHIVOY’s term for people who work in the vineyards. At the end of the training, each graduate earns a certificate from AHIVOY and the option to claim two continuing education credits. Sam is also the founder of PARRA Wine Co.
Sam is always on the lookout for new opportunities to engage with the community. He encourages anyone organizing events, especially those involving high schools or colleges, to reach out. His presence at community events helps spread awareness about the services Heritage Grove offers and reinforces their mission of inclusivity.
Sam Parra’s role at Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union is more than just a job; it’s a commitment to enhancing community connections and ensuring financial services are accessible to all. His work reflects the credit union’s dedication to inclusivity and member-focused service. If you’re in the Salem area and looking for a credit union that truly values its community, Heritage Grove and Sam Parra are ready to welcome you.
For more information or to invite Sam to your community event, feel free to click the Learn More button on the featured business profile below. Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union is here to serve you, with a friendly and familiar face in Sam Parra leading the way.
Featured Business
Heritage Grove Federal Credit Union
631 Winter St NE
Salem, Oregon 97301
(503) 588-0211
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Apr. 14th, 2022