Chicagoans Map Their Financial Futures at a Free Financial Vision Night

MSUFCU, AlumniFi, and Changed hosted an interactive, empowering financial vision board workshop at MSUFCU’s Lyric 312 space

CHICAGO — Local residents looking to take control of their money, crush debt, and set a clear strategy for their financial futures gathered Friday, Aug. 14, for Mapped: A Financial Vision Night, hosted by MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU), AlumniFi, and Changed.

Part creative workshop and part financial empowerment session, the event provided attendees with a supportive community environment to map out concrete money goals. Participants personalized vision boards using provided materials and crafting supplies, while enjoying mocktails and bites catered by local favorite Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!

The evening was led by Khadiza Ali, Growth Lead at Changed, the Chicago-based debt payoff app featured on “Shark Tank” and backed by Mark Cuban. Prior to her work in fintechs, Ali spent years in humanitarian aid leading community education initiatives for Rohingya refugees and local NGOs in Bangladesh.

“Financial planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or dry; it can be creative, inspiring, and deeply personal,” Ali said. “Whether the goal is paying off student loans, buying a home, or building an emergency fund, putting a visual map to those aspirations helps make them attainable. It was incredible helping people from the area walk away with a physical board, actionable steps, and a clear road map to crush their debt.”

“At MSUFCU and AlumniFi, we believe that financial wellness starts with community and accessible tools,” said Arianna Ridderbusch, MSUFCU Vice President of Community Impact. “Partnering with Changed for Mapped allowed us to welcome the Chicago community into our Lyric 312 space for an evening that combined real financial planning with a fun, supportive atmosphere.”

ABOUT MSUFCUMSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) was established in 1937 to provide a secure place for members to save and borrow. Guided by its mission to help members achieve financial security, reach their goals, and realize their dreams, MSUFCU supports members through key milestones in life while helping them plan for the future. Recognized as a leader in innovation and as a great place to work, MSUFCU continually seeks new ways to enhance the member experience and strengthen the communities it serves. Today, the Credit Union proudly serves more than 400,000 members through 35 branches, with over $8.49 billion in assets and more than 1,200 employees. MSUFCU is headquartered in East Lansing, Michigan. For additional information, visit msufcu.org.

ABOUT ALUMNIFI

AlumniFi is a digital-first banking brand created by Michigan State University Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU). AlumniFi offers high-yield savings, fee-free checking, and tech-forward tools to help people simplify their finances and build confidence with every money move. AlumniFi deposits are federally insured by NCUA. Learn more at alumnifi.org.

ABOUT CHANGEDChanged is a debt payoff app featured on “Shark Tank” and backed by Mark Cuban. Round up everyday purchases and apply the difference to your loans automatically. To date, Changed has helped send over $25 million in payments, helping members save over $50 million in interest and shorten their repayment by decades (actually centuries). Learn more at gochanged.com.