Karen Blade Promoted to Branch Services Manager at Downriver Credit Union

January 12, 2023, Southgate, MI—Downriver Community Federal Credit Union is proud to announce the promotion of Karen Blade to Branch Services Manager.

“This well-deserved promotion is a direct result of Karen's demonstrated commitment and dedication to both our organization and to our members,” according to Robert LaPalme, Downriver CU’s President & CEO. “Her passion for member service and many years of experience has strongly contributed to the success of the Credit Union, making her a natural choice as we continue to focus on providing simple access to financial services within our communities."

Blade has been with Downriver CU for more than 40 years.  She started as a part-time clerk through the Student Co-Op Program while at Ecorse Public High School. Over the years, she has moved up through several positions learning various aspects of retail banking. Most recently, she held the position of Cash Leader, and was instrumental in the opening of the Credit Union’s Southgate office in 2020.

Blade has served for many years as the Financial Secretary of the United Steel Workers Local 2659 and holds a number of financial training certifications. In 2022, she added to her list of qualifications by completing The Dynamic Leader Program, a 7-month leadership program presented by Tom Borg Consulting, LLC.  She was born and raised in the Downriver area. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, and has been an active member of the United Steelworker’s Women of Steel.

Downriver Community Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution founded in 1942 and is owned and controlled by over 13,000 members with three office locations, including Ecorse, Southgate, and Woodhaven.  Services are available to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Wayne or Monroe Counties. Businesses or other legal entities located in these counties are also eligible to maintain accounts at the Credit Union. All it takes to join is to open a prime share account with a minimum deposit of $5.00, which serves as the basic membership account. Once a prime share account is opened, the member may enjoy all of the Credit Union´s services, including accounts, lending services, and workshops. For more information about joining the Credit Union, please contact a Member Services Representative at (313) 386-2200 or visit www.DownriverCU.com.