Redstone Federal Credit Union

r e d f c u.o r g | 5 e first BAM loan was awarded at the end of 2018 to Legacy Physical erapy, a Madison-based practice owned by licensed physical therapist assistants Josh Arney and Gary Stinnett. "As we started our business, we knew we would need operating capital while insurance companies were clearing our credentials," Arney said. "But the banks wanted us to have two years of financial records before they would even consider us. Redstone Federal Credit Union was the only one to offer an alternative, and that was to work with Neighborhood Concepts and their North Alabama Revolving Loan Fund." John ornton, Loan Fund Manager at Neighborhood Concepts, points to their situation as the perfect example of how the new BAM loan can strengthen relationships within the business community. "Redstone has been referring start-ups to us for some time," said ornton. "Now we can provide loans for those businesses who may be outside of the Opportunity Zones, thanks to the funding from Redstone and the coaching support from e Catalyst. And as these companies grow, they return to Redstone for additional business tools like credit cards and construction loans." e BAM loan has meant a great deal to Arney and Stinnett. "We dreamed of a place where we could focus on our patients, not insurance companies," said Stinnett. "When we got the loan, we were finally able to breathe deeply and go back to building that dream practice. Our long-term patients are excited, and we look forward to serving even more." Mary Ellen Judah, Executive Director at Neighborhood Concepts, looks forward to fostering the dreams of other entrepreneurs as well. "I love watching our clients grow in confidence as their skills and business acumen develop through business coaching and funding," said Judah. "eir positive momentum feeds their networks and neighborhoods while the jobs they create strengthen our communities." Josh Arney, lef t, and Gary Stinnett of Legacy Physical Therapy. Mary Ellen Judah of Neighborhood Concepts.

• Cover