CAFE Hub Client Page

To get started, visit 1stbergen.balancepro.org and create an account. You will need to log in to Balance Pro every time you want to continue the learning modules. Please use Firefox or Microsoft Edge to access Balance Pro. If you have trouble accessing the site or creating an account, your CAFE Hub Private Banker can help you. Click here or call (973) 881-0801 for assistance.

The next step is to improve your financial knowledge with Balance Pro and its industry-leading financial education resources. You can either follow our recommended learning plan below, or create your own lesson plan by exploring all of Balance Pro’s resources. Each lesson will include a 10 question quiz at the end.

When you’ve successfully completed and received certificates for 10 or more lessons, contact the CAFE Hub Private Banker and move on to step 3.

Recommended BalanceTrack Plan:
1. High Cost Financial Services
2. The Psychology of Spending
3. Drive Away Happy
4. Credit Matters
5. The World of Credit Reports
6. Money Management
7. Checking Account Management
8. Rebuilding After a Financial Crisis
9. Financial First Aid
10. Identity Theft

If you are not already a member of 1st Bergen, you are now eligible for 1st Bergen Membership! You can take advantage of savings and checking accounts with no monthly fees, free Visa Debit and ATM cards, online banking, lower-interest loans, and more. Visit a 1st Bergen branch to become a member, or complete an online membership request here. Make sure to let the credit union know that you are a CAFE Hub client.

By completing the financial education course, you may be eligible for a CAFE Hub Credit Builder Loan. Set up a short intake meeting with the CAFE Hub Financial Coach to get started. Additional assistance may also be available by participating in the Financial Coaching program.

Read more about the loan process at 1st Bergen here.

The next step in your financial journey is to take you new knowledge and put it to use. Click here or the button below to register for an initial session and get started with one on one financial coaching.

All 1st Bergen Members qualify for the following services:

• No cost one-on-one financial coaching

• Credit Report Review (once every 6 months)

• Ongoing access to the CAFE Hub Private Banker

• Unlimited Financial Education Lessons through Balance

• Specialized Financial Counseling through Balance

If you are in an income eligible household, you may also qualify for additional services and financial assistance.

People from income-eligible households within the service area of Greater Bergen Community Action qualify for the following services:

• Up to $400 in financial incentives as you make progress in your financial plan

• Up to $400 per child in deposit matches in a Future Dream Education Savings account.

• Reduced rate debt-consolidation loans up to $2,500 when debt reduction is part of your coaching plan

• Free one-on-one financial coaching for as long as you remain income-eligible

• Credit Report review sessions every 6 months

• Ongoing access to the CAFE Hub Private Banker

• Unlimited Access to all Balance resources, including financial literacy lessons, Student Loan Coaching, and Homeownership & Rental Coaching

• Guided referrals to other NJ nonprofits that can help you improve your financial situation.

Income eligibility is defined as a total household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. You will be asked by your financial counselor to provide income documentation for every member of your household.

If you are participating through a partner nonprofit:

• Financial Literacy & Coaching through your sponsoring Nonprofit

• 1st Bergen Membership

• Additional coaching services by becoming a 1st Bergen Member

If you are not participating through a partner nonprofit:

• You must become a member at 1st Bergen to receive free services.