One Detroit Credit Union introduces instant-issue debit cards featuring artwork by Detroit artists
The credit union partnered with Mint Artists Guild to design the new cards
DETROIT, MICH (May 20, 2022) — Debit cards featuring work by Detroit artists are now available at One Detroit Credit Union (1DCU).
With an instant-issue debit card, members no longer have to wait 7-10 days for a card and PIN to arrive in the mail. Cards are issued on the spot in every 1DCU branch. For members who are opening a new account or replacing a lost card, the Instant Issue process will allow them to visit any credit union branch and leave with a working debit card.
“This new program underscores our mission to impact and change lives,” said Hank Hubbard, CEO of One Detroit Credit Union. “It ensures that our members have uninterrupted access to a debit card so they can manage their finances, whether that means buying groceries, filling their cars with gas, or just buying lunch. Instant Issue cards make it more convenient to bank with a community financial institution like us.”
Instant Issue cards may be used just like any 1DCU debit card in person, over the phone or online, as well as at the ATM. Credit Union members have access to more than 3,000 surcharge-free ATMs across the country through the CO-OP Network.
To create artwork for the new debit cards, 1DCU partnered with Mint Artists Guild. Mint is a nonprofit that guides talented youth artists to learn, earn and launch creative careers and give back in our communities. Artists Natasha Guest and Eleanor Aro painted original art inspired by iconic Detroit landmarks.
Natasha Guest creates art that springs from her imagination or fantasies and spent three summers working with Mint. An illustrator and talented painter, she created the Detroit Riverwalk debit card.
“I never thought I’d get an opportunity like this,” said Guest. “Supporting a Detroit business is great!”
Eleanor Aro works mainly in acrylic paint, depicting the City of Detroit and its residents in a different light. She has worked two years in the Mint Creative Summer Jobs program and her paintings receive recognition and appreciation. Aro attends University of Michigan, where her major is environmental science. She designed the Hands Holding Detroit debit card.
“We love challenging our youth to create memorable high-quality art – and art that shares our love of Detroit. And Natasha and Eleanor certainly rose to the occasion for the One Detroit – Detroit debit card project. And we all learned some things too,” said Vickie Elmer, Mint executive director. “We are so grateful for the opportunity.”
“We were searching for someone who could create a new card design that better represented the spirit and culture of our city,” said Joumana Mcdad, Executive Vice President of One Detroit Credit Union. “Mint connected us with two talented young artists who blew us away with their creativity and professionalism. We could not be happier with our experience working with Mint or more proud of the final outcome. Ms. Guest and Ms. Aro transformed our debit cards into something everyone at our credit union could really get excited about.
These designs will only be available as part of the credit union’s new Instant Issue debit card offering. Traditional debit cards will still be distributed to members when their current cards expire. There is a $10 fee to replace a lost card.
For more information about 1DCU’s Instant Issue debit cards, visit OneDetroitCU.org/instant.
For more information about Mint Artists Guild, visit MintArtistsGuild.org.
About One Detroit Credit Union
Founded in 1935, One Detroit Credit Union's mission is to impact and change lives. A non-profit, member-owned institution, One Detroit provides credible, fair and reasonably priced financial products and services to the Detroit community, with a special concern for those who have been overlooked by the mainstream banking system. There are three main branches located in Detroit and Highland Park. Membership is open to all who live, work, worship or volunteer in Wayne County.
