CONCORD, Calif. and BAKERSFIELD, Calif., Feb. 1, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — BALANCE and Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Kern and Tulare Counties (CCCS) have announced the completion of a merger of the two nonprofit agencies.

Through the merger, the agencies will expand upon their mission to provide consumers with comprehensive financial counseling and educational resources. Residents in the Bakersfield area will have access to new services such as expanded hours for credit and housing counseling, online financial tools, student loan counseling, reverse mortgage counseling, and a suite of new employer and partner programs focused on increasing financial capability.

The merged agencies will operate under the BALANCE name, with Kathryn J. Davis continuing her role as CEO & President. The headquarters will be located in Concord, with a local office to remain in Bakersfield.

“We’re excited to build on the legacy established by CCCS of Kern & Tulare Counties,” said Davis. “For more than 50 years, they have provided the local community with much-needed financial counseling, debt repayment options and homebuyer assistance. They are a trusted neighbor and have always been on the side of consumers.”

Stephen Pelz, Board Chair of CCS, added, “We are pleased to be able to not only preserve, but enhance the services provided by CCCS to our local communities through the merger. BALANCE is a well-respected organization, and Kern County residents will benefit from the expanded services.”

BALANCE has a long history of partnering with cities and non-profits to integrate financial education and counseling services to serve consumers most in need. “One of our first acts will be to reach out to other non-profits in the area to learn how we can contribute by providing financial workshops, counseling and other resources,” said Davis.

About BALANCE:

Founded in 1969 as Consumer Credit Counseling Service of San Francisco, BALANCE today is a nationally-respected nonprofit, financial services organization with a mission to help consumers achieve financial independence through debt reduction, homeownership, and improved money management skills.

About Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Kern & Tulare Counties (CCCS):

CCCS is a nonprofit, full-service money management resource center that has served the local community since 1966. CCCS specializes in the areas of free or low-cost confidential debt, money management and housing counseling.

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SOURCE BALANCE