Posted on: Monday, May 31, 2004

Business notebook

Advertiser Staff

• American Savings Bank was named National Lender of the Year early this year by Ways to Work Inc. for its support of the Ways to Work Family Loan Program on O'ahu. In 2003, American Savings Bank provided 53 Ways to Work loans to low-income parents who could not get loans elsewhere, totaling nearly $250,000. Since 2001 it has funded 93 loans totaling nearly $250,000.

The bank's role in the program was recognized out of a field of 42 such programs throughout the nation. The Ways to Work program provides loans to qualifying parents on O'ahu to help them keep their jobs, get better employment or stay in school. Ranging from $500 to $4,000, the loans may be used to help low- and moderate-income families purchase a used car or pay for car repairs, childcare or certain other needs.

Loan decisions are made by a committee of volunteers from banking, business, social service and public administration professions. All approved customers are provided money management training and their loans are closed, funded and serviced by American Savings Bank.

• BNI (Business Network International) recently started new chapters in Hawai'i Kai and Honolulu. BNI is an international networking organization specializing in business referrals among members. Those interested in attending meetings can call Joann Seery, executive director, at 235-1262.