By: Ashmar Mandou
In our last Hispanic Heritage Moth series, we place a spotlight on Gladys Castillo, vice president, Small Business Banker, Bank of America Chicago, who dedicates her time to equipping Latinos with the best possible options in creating a healthy financial plan.
Lawndale Bilingual News: What would you say is the most rewarding and the most challenging aspect of your position at Bank of America?
Gladys Castillo: I am proud to work for Bank of America, which is committed to improving the financial lives of our customers while giving back to our communities. I’m particularly proud of the bank’s commitment to helping our Hispanic-Latino consumer and small business clients meet their financial goals. The most rewarding part of my job is helping Chicago-area small business owners, learning their business priorities, and helping them identify solutions to their challenges so they can grow and achieve their goals. I’d say my biggest challenge is reaching all our potential clients in Chicago. Some clients simply don’t realize that they have a dedicated small business advisor on their Bank of America team; it’s such a valuable resource and I hope more and more businesses continue to take advantage of it!
Talk to me about what compelled you to join the world of finance?
I graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a bachelor’s degree in international business. I always knew I wanted a career at a global financial institution with a great reputation where I could develop my skills and serve my clients and my community. Bank of America affords the opportunity to both while promoting personal development and work-life balance.
What should younger generations know about how to better prepare for a strong financial future?
My advice to younger generations is to seek out and maintain a personal relationship with a personal or business banker at your local financial institution. There are so many resources available to customers today, and the decisions you make about your money are among the most important. Your bank is full of complimentary resources, it’s up to you to learn how to make your money work for you!
How would you describe the impact Bank of America has within the Latino community?
Bank of America’s commitment to the Hispanic-Latino community, particularly in Chicago, is unwavering. One way we try to make an impact is by helping to build Hispanic-Latino wealth in Chicago. In addition to serving many Hispanic-Latino small business owners, we’re committed to funding minority-led companies through capital investment by mission-focused venture funds. Of the funds we have in our portfolio, one in every four is led by Hispanic-Latino managers, providing capital that will help entrepreneurs and small business owners grow their businesses, create jobs and improve financial stability. We also recognize higher education as a pathway to achieve success, which is why partnerships like the one we have with Harold Washington College are key to our commitment to investing in future professionals and business leaders.
As we celebrate the achievements and contributions of Latinos during Hispanic Heritage Month, can you share with our readers what this month signifies to you?
This month is always special because it’s an extra reminder of how Bank of America embraces our company’s diversity, among our colleagues and our clients and within our communities. Personally, I am deeply appreciative of the way our city comes together to celebrate and honor our Hispanic-Latino neighbors and the various cultures and traditions we represent. Hispanic Heritage Month is always a little more vibrant, and there’s no better way to step into the fall season.
