How Indianapolis’ Chase Community Manager Can Empower You in Your Financial Journey in 2024

Community Manager Carletta Clark discusses her plans to help Indianapolis’ communities grow. You can work with her to chart your path forward and meet your financial goals in the new year. For more information, contact Carletta Clark, Community & Business Development Manager, JPMorgan Chase, 3501 Lafayette Road, Indianapolis IN 46220 or carletta.d.clark@jpmorgan.com / 317.345.1780.

For more than 185 years, JPMorgan Chase has supported Greater Indianapolis and 2024 is no different. This is more than a place where we do business. It is home to our customers, clients, employees and community partners. Since 2019, the firm has made more than $17 million in philanthropic contributions in Indianapolis and employs more than 1,600 employees across the city. The strength of our company allows us to leverage our resources, expertise and data insights to help bolster communities and create a more inclusive economy for all.

Work with your local branch team ― virtually or in-person.

From opening a bank account or line of credit, to exploring mortgage financing options and small business loans, the Community Manager at your local Chase branch on 3501 Lafayette Rd. is tuned in to your community’s financial wellness needs and ready to help you achieve your next milestone. Carletta Clark – one of 150 Community Managers JPMorgan Chase hired across the country – joined the team specifically to work with you and your community to increase awareness of and access to resources, financial health tools and services.

Community Managers are often from local neighborhoods who understand the challenges your community faces and are committed to helping you forge a strong financial future at any stage of your financial journey. With the help of local nonprofit partners who are invested in driving change in communities across Indianapolis, we are bringing more allies to your local bank branch who share Chase’s goal of empowering you to improve and achieve financial health.

How does your job differ from other Chase Bank Branch Managers?

Carletta Clark: My role was designed specifically to meet the unique financial wellness needs of our community. We want to evolve from community banking to community building and to do this, we’re actively working to reverse systemic inequalities across the financial system, break down economic barriers and support the success of our customers and our community. We provide access to financial health resources, tools and allies to help you achieve your financial goals.

Think of a community manager as a neighbor who understands intentional relationship building, the financial needs of leaders, organizations and people in your community – and who introduces you to the right person in the bank who can help. Meanwhile, a branch manager is a more traditional role created to help you with everyday banking needs – like opening a bank account or offering advice on homeownership and small business growth.

How do you hope to financially empower the underserved community?

Carletta Clark: We’re here to empower people and businesses in the underserved community with tools to build generational wealth and a long-lasting legacy. Awareness and accessibility are key, and we see the local branch as an ideal place to begin fostering vital community connections and touchpoints to help our customers reach their financial goals.

My job as a Community Manager is to connect with the individuals, families and business owners in Indianapolis and increase awareness and utilization of available resources. My team and I will help you and others in your neighborhood take advantage of financial health tools, products and services, while aiming to boost general financial knowledge via unique and free interactive programs, such as:

• Resources to support financial health
• Home buying tips
• Educational and enrichment workshops
• Growth support for entrepreneurs starting or expanding their small businesses

What financial opportunities will you make available to communities here?

Carletta Clark: One of our priorities is to help individuals in our community open a checking account for the first time, as this is the key to financial stability and critical to closing gaps in access to banking. To do this, we’ll walk through our low-cost, no-overdraft checking accounts like Chase Secure Banking, which can offer security to those who might be new to banking or who have had trouble getting or keeping a bank account in the past. My team is also responsible for promoting growth among small businesses – which means we’ll help local entrepreneurs secure loans. We’ve also brought on board home lending advisors who are focused on helping more of the community secure the funds needed for affordable, sustainable homeownership.

You mentioned another goal of the Community Impact Branch is “community building.” What does this mean and how are you doing this in Indianapolis?

Carletta Clark: A big priority for us is working with local nonprofits and organizations who understand and are invested in driving change. Currently, we work with organizations like Easterseals Crossroads, Ivy Tech Entrepreneurship Program, INHP (Indianapolis Homeownership Partnership), Community Action of Greater Indianapolis, Be Nimble, InnoPower, Center for Leadership and Development and Indianapolis Urban League. They each underscore our fundamental principles by working to provide resources and education to our local community and have the data to back up the positive impact they’re making in the community.

Our staff plays a big part in this as well – not just for Indianapolis but from, and a reflection of, the local communities we call home. I’ve lived in Indianapolis for more than 20 years and am passionate about helping people succeed! Serving this community is not just a profession, it’s a passion. Stop by to learn more about the resources available. My team and I look forward to getting to know you.

In 2016 Andrew suffered a traumatic brain injury after a fall from a chair. His life instantly changed from that point forward and he struggled to adapt to this change in ability.

Andrew credits his mother for giving him some tough love in telling him to move on with his life. After some thought, Andrew returned to a job in technical support and began to concentrate on other ways to move ahead with his life.

“A person with a brain injury doesn’t need to realize what they can’t do – they see that every day of their life. What they need to know is what they can do,” said Andrew.

Andrew connected with Easterseals Crossroads for resources and worked with a resource facilitator specializing in brain injuries to learn more about coping mechanisms. He gained advice from our assistive technology specialists and found that simple changes like a standing desk made a huge difference in managing his chronic fatigue, another effect of brain injury. Andrew has learned to embrace adaptations to help him succeed and move forward.

Looking ahead, Andrew has 20 hours completed toward his private pilot’s license and he is working with the FAA to continue. He has come to realize that even if he cannot continue independently, he will still keep flying with a certified flight instructor.

“Sometimes with a brain injury you ask yourself, ‘Can I really do this?’ I reasoned in my head that I cannot be the first pilot to ever be afraid. I flew for a good week — almost every single day — and I got over the fear,” said Andrew.

”I realized that by trusting myself, I could end up being me, which is what I was always trying to achieve in the first place,“ said Andrew. “But this time,
I didn’t fight myself for it; I worked with myself.”

For more information about brain injury services, contact us.

Odin is a big brother to his sister Freyja. At age 1, his mom Tiffany noticed some regression with language and was very concerned when he stopped speaking. After evaluations, Odin was diagnosed with autism. When Freyja came along a year later and started developing, she also showed signs of autism.

Odin is now 6 years old, and Tiffany has seen much improvement in how he communicates his feelings. Five- year-old Freyja now expresses herself clearly and has made great progress with her behaviors. “Freyja would become very emotional when she couldn’t communicate. Using her words has helped her control her behavior,” said Tiffany.

Therapists at Easterseals Crossroads focus on building strengths to help young people succeed. Odin loves technology and has learned to use tablets, cell phones and computers. Tiffany is so impressed that he has come so far and so fast with his ability. Freyja has advanced from simple drawings to complex images to express her thoughts.

“At one point, I thought Odin would never be able to talk to me and now he is never quiet, which is a huge milestone,” said Tiffany.

“Easterseals Crossroads has taught me so much about parenting kids with autism. We would not be in as good a place as we are now without autism services,” said Tiffany.

For more information about autism & behavior services, contact us.

Since 2011, Easterseals Crossroads has partnered with Community Health Network, Lawrence Township Schools and Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation to offer Project SEARCH at Community Hospital North. The program is a work immersion program that provides employment and educational opportunities for final year high school students with developmental disabilities.

Stacy, Boubacar and Sarah are all Community Hospital North employees who started as Project SEARCH interns over ten years ago. During the nine-month program, they learned through classroom instruction and rotations within specific areas of the hospital. They also learned the softer skills that often account for longevity within a career. Each of the three deeply wanted employment right where they started.

Stacy was so excited when he found out that he had been hired after completing his internship. He felt his position would bring new opportunities and new friendships. He likes the independence that working gives him. “I knew my work and my life were going to change forever,” said Stacy.

“When I completed Project SEARCH, I knew that there were many things I could do with my life,” said Boubacar. “My goal is for my mom to come to the US; I save my PTO each year to visit her in Niger.”

According to Sarah, living on her own was high on her list of priorities after high school. “Without Project SEARCH, I wouldn’t have been able to reach my goals. I wanted to live in my own apartment where I could buy things and cook in my kitchen. My job has helped me do the things I want to do,” said Sarah.

“There are roles for people of all abilities in our community. It’s not only creating an opportunity, but then educating a person about how to fit in a role. I think Easterseals Crossroads has a fabulous reputation for doing that in a number of ways.” said Bryan Mills, President/CEO, Community Health Network.

Contact us for more information about employment programs at Easterseals Crossroads.

The Indianapolis Public Library partnered with assistive technology services at Easterseals Crossroads to install accessible workstations at all of its locations to ensure that patrons have access to library resources and information.

Each of the accessible workstations offer a height-adjustable desk, large-key keyboard, large-print keyboard, trackball mouse with programmable buttons and arm supports. Available software includes a text reading app, live transcription app, math app, magnification app and a screen reading app for people who are blind or visually impaired.

The combination of software and adaptive equipment provides patrons of all abilities equal access to information. Individuals with learning disabilities and mobility limitations can complete tasks such as creating documents or accessing the internet.

“At Easterseals Crossroads, we know the importance of inclusion – not just within our facilities, but out in the community as well. To see the way The Indianapolis Public Library has taken that all in for ability approach to address the needs and challenges of their patrons is fantastic,” said Brian Norton, vice president of adult services at Easterseals Crossroads.

Our assistive technology clinical team provided 7,664 hours of service for people with disabilities to assess, recommend, install and instruct them on assistive technology tools and supports.

Learn more about assistive technology options at Easterseals Crossroads.

blog submitted by Brandon Scott, Content Creation Manager, Easterseals Crossroads

Here we are, the busiest travel time of the year. We all know that traveling during the holidays can be stressful and air travel (especially for wheelchair users) can be even more stressful. As a power wheelchair user, who has done a lot of traveling, I have experienced those stressful moments of having to repair my chair in the airport terminal because it was returned to me in pieces. I have also had great experiences with airlines that utilize special equipment to handle my power wheelchair with care. To avoid many of the travel hassles, it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure as smooth and stress-free journey as possible. Here are a few valuable tips that have helped me confidently navigate the skies.

Research and Book Wheelchair-Accessible Flights

Start by researching airlines that are known for their accessibility services. Many airlines have specific policies and procedures for passengers with disabilities. Consider reaching out to the airline’s customer service team to discuss your specific needs and request assistance if required.

Notify the Airline in Advance

When booking your flight, inform the airline of your wheelchair and any additional mobility aids you’ll be bringing. This allows them to make necessary arrangements, such as reserving a spot for your wheelchair in the cargo hold.

Prepare Your Wheelchair for Travel

• Label Your Wheelchair: Clearly label your wheelchair with your contact information in case it needs to be identified or located.
• Secure Loose Parts: Secure any removable parts to prevent them from getting lost during transport. I always make sure to at least carry on my chair’s seat cushion, because I know that it will likely become separated from my chair.

Arrive Early and Communicate Your Needs

Arrive at the airport well in advance to allow time for check-in and security procedures. Communicate your needs to airline staff and be specific about the level of assistance you require.

Utilize Airport Assistance Services

Many airports offer specialized assistance services for passengers with disabilities. These services may include wheelchair assistance, escort through security and priority boarding. Take advantage of these services to make your journey more comfortable.

Consider an Aisle Chair for Boarding

If your wheelchair cannot be accommodated in the aircraft cabin, request an aisle chair for boarding. This narrow chair is designed to help passengers with mobility challenges navigate the narrow aisles of the plane.

Know Your Rights and Regulations

Familiarize yourself with the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) in the United States or similar regulations in other countries. These laws protect the rights of passengers with disabilities and outline the responsibilities of airlines.

Bring Essential Supplies

Pack essential items such as extra batteries, chargers and any necessary medical supplies. It’s also a good idea to carry a basic toolkit in case minor adjustments are needed.

Stay Informed and Stay Patient

Flight schedules and accessibility procedures can change, so stay informed about any updates or changes. Additionally, be patient and understanding with airline staff and fellow passengers. A positive attitude goes a long way in ensuring a pleasant travel experience.

Flying with a wheelchair can be less difficult with proper planning and communication. By following these tips and being proactive in your preparations, you can embark on your journey more confidently and enjoy the freedom of travel. Safe travels!

Easterseals Crossroads is excited to partner with eKeeper as our matching gift partner for GivingTuesday. This year, GivingTuesday will be on November 28. Any donations made on this day, to Easterseals Crossroads, will be matched by eKeeper up to $10,000. “eKeeper is a tremendous partner and advocate for Easterseals Crossroads. They truly went all in for ability with us this year as our GivingTuesday matching gift partner. Our agency is stronger when we work together with community partners like eKeeper to envision a more inclusive and accessible central Indiana community,” said David Dreith, President/CEO, Easterseals Crossroads.

GivingTuesday emerged as a response to the consumerism surrounding Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Established in 2012, GivingTuesday leveraged the power of social media and collaboration among diverse organizations to promote charitable giving. Over the years, GivingTuesday gained momentum worldwide, transcending borders and cultures. It has become a pivotal day for nonprofits, individuals, businesses and communities to come together, fostering a spirit of generosity and making a tangible impact on various causes and initiatives across the globe.

Who is eKeeper?

eKeeper is a leading provider of adaptable IT solutions. They strive to provide peace of mind with technology, extending their mission beyond business operations to positively impact the wider community. Their dedication to customer-centric values and strategic partnerships seamlessly aligns with Easterseals Crossroads’ mission to empower individuals with disabilities.

Rooted in technical excellence, security, efficiency and adaptability, eKeeper’s core values mirror the principles driving Easterseals Crossroads’ impactful work. Recognizing the importance of continuous improvement and community involvement, eKeeper and Easterseals Crossroads share values of empathy, compassion, diversity and sustainability. To amplify their support, eKeeper is matching gifts with a significant financial contribution, aiming to make an even greater impact on GivingTuesday. By supporting Easterseals Crossroads, eKeeper demonstrates its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship, contributing to the well-being of communities and embodying the values that define it as a trusted technology partner.

For more information about eKeeper, visit https://www.ekeepersystems.com/.

Financial health is an important foundation that helps build strong and resilient households, communities and economies. Being financially healthy better prepares you for life’s unexpected expenses.

The reality is, more than 50% of Americans across all income levels consider themselves financially unhealthy. That group includes many Black, Hispanic and Latino families in the U.S., who have less than 50 cents in assets for every dollar held by white families. Studies show that Black, Hispanic and Latino families also face the biggest gaps in access to banking and resources to help them manage their financial needs.

To help close the racial wealth gap, improve financial health and boost financial inclusion, Chase has hired 150 Community Managers to foster engagement in diverse communities. Community Managers host financial health workshops and community events, while developing close relationships with customers to help them achieve their financial goals.

Carletta Clark is the Community Manager in Indianapolis. Clark offers tips to develop healthy financial habits and take control of your financial future.

Build a Budget
It’s important to understand how much money is coming in and going out each month. Use online tools to help you track your savings and spending, and then break spending down into wants versus needs. Once you have an idea of where your money is going, it’s easier to make adjustments to your spending habits.

Start Saving
Even the smallest amount matters because there’s never too little to start saving! To help initiate a savings habit or stick with it, make it automatic. For example, Chase offers Autosave, which allows customers to create repeating transfers from their checking to their savings, set specific goals and even track progress. It’s a good idea to put aside several months’ worth of living expenses because no one is immune from facing unexpected expenses. Having some savings can help prevent you from facing a significant financial strain when those situations happen.

Know your Credit Score
Your credit score is a number that represents a snapshot of your credit history, and lenders use it to help determine how likely you are to repay a loan in the future. The higher your credit score, the more competitive you’ll also be for lower interest rates on major purchases like a home or vehicle, helping you save over the life of your loan. You can find your credit score for free at annualcreditreport.com, which is an official U.S. government website. You can also get your score through your financial institutions or at www.chase.com/creditjourney.

Pay down Debt
If you have a low credit score, pay down credit cards, loan balances and make bill payments on time to improve your score.

Talk to your Children
The gift of financial literacy is priceless. Encouraging confidence and financial independence starts with having the conversation at home. By including your children in basic financial discussions, they’ll learn early about budgeting and saving. You can extend these lessons by opening a bank account like Chase First Banking, a great teaching tool for kids ages 6 and older that comes with their own debit card and parental control.

As you think about your long-term financial goals – such as buying a new home or starting a business – you can see how financial literacy can better help you achieve them. Visit one of our branches to learn about the tools available to help you.

For more information, contact Carletta Clark, Community & Business Development Manager, JPMorgan Chase, 3501 Lafayette Road, Indianapolis IN 46220

carletta.d.clark@jpmorgan.com  /  317.345.1780

Charles was a ship serviceman in the United States Navy where he felt responsible for the morale of the ship through the services he provided from the general store, barber, vending and more.

Once he was honorably discharged from the service, he found himself struggling with everyday life. His wife — for whom he was a caregiver ― was ill, he faced some legal issues and he battled drug and alcohol dependency. As many times as he tried treatment during this period, he never seemed to completely escape the addiction.

Things finally started to fall into place for Charles when he sought veteran services and completed his treatment program. He moved into transitional housing and was directed to the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program offered by Easterseals Crossroads. From there, he worked with career navigators and began the Compensated Work Therapy program offered through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Charles is now employed at the Veterans Administration as a supply technician.

“These programs opened a lot of doors for me. I have my own apartment now and I am moving forward. If you put your time in to make changes, Easterseals Crossroads will work with you. Believe me, you will get something out of it,” said Charles.

Contact us for more information about veteran services at Easterseals Crossroads.