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The Porterville City Council has recognized Valley Strong Credit Union as a 2025 Outstanding Business, joining Integrated Technology Solutions as two of this year’s three honorees.

In January 2021, the Bakersfield-based Valley Strong Credit Union opened its Porterville location, part of its growth into Tulare County, reflecting its strategic investment in the future of the city.

Since opening nearly five years ago, the credit union has made a lasting economic impact in the city, beginning with hiring local employees and fostering innovation and leadership.

Porterville branch manager Alex Martin said that the team’s hard work, innovation and commitment to its community have helped transform the lives of both employees and members in the city.

“We grow your financial well-being with personalized solutions, expert guidance, and a commitment to the communities we serve,” Martin said.

Locally, the credit union supports various service organizations and schools, dedicating their efforts to improve financial literacy, especially for the region’s youth.

On Monday, Valley Strong Credit Union also made a $1 million donation to Adventist Health Hanford’s future cardiac cath lab, further displaying their commitment to generating jobs and expanding access to services in the Valley; the lab is scheduled for completion in 2027.

Since 2017, the City of Porterville has honored local businesses for their impact on the community, celebrating their ability to transform and grow the local community’s economy and job opportunities.

To be eligible, businesses must be a major employer and have proven longevity in Porterville. They also must have undergone significant growth within the past year, as well as support the local community and proven to be innovative in their industry.

All three recipients of the award will be honored this December during the Chamber of Commerce’s “First Friday Coffee.”

For questions, or to nominate a business to be recognized, email Porterville city staff at ecdev@ci.porterville.ca.us.