By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter
For DeLise Simmons, Toledo Urban Federal Credit Union has never simply been a workplace. It has been a mission; one built around helping people recognize their own power, overcome barriers, and create a stronger financial future.
Her journey with Toledo Urban began before she ever became an employee. After seeing the vision behind the Toledo Urban’s African American Festival, Simmons reached out to Suzette Cowell, ThD, to offer her support. What started as a willingness to help quickly became a deeper connection to an institution committed to serving the community.
“I didn’t know what I was getting myself into,” Simmons recalls while laughing. “I thought, this is so awesome that we have an African American organization that has started an actual festival for the community.”
That relationship eventually led Simmons to join Toledo Urban Federal Credit Union as Assistant Manager in 2012, a role she held until 2019. During that time, she witnessed firsthand the financial challenges many families faced, and the difference that education, patience and compassion could make.
“You just assume that people know how to save money, apply for loans, and that their credit is together,” she explains. “But unless you’re in it, you don’t know. I learned there was a great need, and the community needed people to care.”
Simmons became passionate about helping members understand credit, repair past mistakes and build confidence.
Her message to members was simple but powerful:
“I can’t do it for you, but I’ll do it with you.”
Today, Simmons continues that commitment as a member of the Toledo Urban Federal Credit Union Board of Directors. Although she is no longer inside the building every day, her connection to the mission remains strong.
“I believe in the credit union,” she shares. “I don’t see any reason why people wouldn’t support it. It’s needed; we are essential.”
For Simmons, the greatest milestones are not just buildings or celebrations. They are the families who now own homes, the individuals who have built credit, and the generations who have learned that financial success is possible.
“Your credit says yes, even when people want to tell you no,” Simmons says. “Once you build your credit up, it speaks for you.”
After 30 years, she believes Toledo Urban’s greatest legacy is the lives changed and the future still being built.