Los Angeles Lay Leader Urla Abrigo, chief executive officer of the Episcopal Community Federal Credit Union serving the Diocese of Los Angeles, was recognized June 25 by the Los Angeles City Council on the occasion of the credit union's 10th year of service.  A formal proclamation was presented at City Hall by council members who praised Abrigo, her leadership, and the credit union for the support it provides, especially to low-income residents of Southern California.  Urla is a longtime member of ENEJ and currently serves as its treasurer.

With nearly $5 million in assets, the credit union she leads was formed in response to the 1992 civil disturbances in Los Angeles.  The late Gloria Brown, a former staff member of the Episcopal Church Center in New York, was among founders who built the credit union using a $100,000 initial grant from the Presiding Bishop's Fund for World Relief, known today as Episcopal Relief and Development.    Further information about the credit union may be obtained by phoning 213-482-2040, ext. 256.  Community credit unions across the nation have become an important source of capital and loans for low to moderate income neighborhoods that are often not being served by traditional banks.