Page 17 - BusinessWest January 6, 2025

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2025 Snapshots
Sasha Wilde, Owner, Sexton Roofing & Siding
This past year was one of growth and learning for Sexton Roof- ing & Siding. We expanded our offerings, strengthened our team, and
gained invaluable insights along the way. Now, as we step into 2025, we’re ready to build on this strong foundation and push toward an even brighter future.
Looking ahead, we’re focused on growth — not just as a business, but as a community partner. We’re committed to finding new ways to support local initiatives and get more involved in the neighborhoods we serve. Additionally, we’re exploring more sustainable mate- rials to offer homeowners eco-friendly options that contribute to a greener future.
Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to building stronger homes, stronger communities, and a stronger future in 2025 and beyond. BW
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George Timmons, President, Holyoke Community College
Three words come to mind when I think about a com- munity-college education in Western Mass. today: access, belonging,
and possibility. When the Healey- Driscoll administration made commu- nity college free for eligible students in Massachusetts, we opened doors for thousands across our region. In Hampden County, where nearly 40% of residents lack post-secondary edu- cation, this access is crucial for eco- nomic growth. Our 12.6% enrollment increase in 2024 reflects this expand- ing opportunity.
The landscape is evolving: the county’s school-age population has declined 9% over the last decade, while the over-65 population grows. Seventy percent of our students study part-time, balancing work and family responsibilities, and more than one- third identify as Hispanic or Latino. At HCC, we embrace this diversity, creating a community where students feel they truly belong.
Looking ahead, we’ll continue adapting to meet our students’ unique and changing needs, ensuring their success remains our priority.
Glenn Welch, President and CEO, Freedom Credit Union
In 2025, financial institutions, especially credit unions, will navigate a landscape rich with both chal-
lenges and opportunities. Interest rates remain elevated, reducing peo- ple’s ability or willingness to borrow. High mortgage rates and a low num- ber of homes on the market makes it difficult for our members to refinance or move into their next homes. Now there are fewer rate cuts expected in 2025 than previous predictions had indicated, so much-needed relief from high rates will not come to fruition.
With these issues, credit unions must prioritize financial literacy and member education, empowering indi- viduals to make informed decisions in uncertain times. Freedom is proud of its financial-literacy programs, includ- ing fraud-prevention education at area
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senior centers, schools, and other ven- ues. Teaching the public how to handle finances helps them navigate financial challenges.
In 2025, there will be a growing emphasis on community support. Cred- it unions have a unique opportunity to strengthen their local impact and foster stronger community ties.
Your business is personal.
Your banking should be too.
At UMassFive, we understand that your business is more than just margins and spreadsheets–it’s an extension of you. Your vision. Your goals. Your potential.
That’s why we look beyond the bottom line to learn what makes your business tick, and provide expert guidance every step of the way toward what’s possible.
UMassFive: It’s all about you.
UMassFive worked
with us to develop a 0% interest bike loan, which has made it possible for folks that maybe didn’t have that kind of money to spend to be able to afford our electric bikes. It works for the consumer, it works for us as a small business, and it works for UMassFive.”
Bob Nuttelman, Florence, MA
Owner, Quadrini Electric Bikes
umassfive.coop/business
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JANUARY 6, 2025 17