Arizona State Credit Union has launched a social media site where people hit by the recession can share information and advice.
The HelpingAZ.com site is designed to assist Arizona state and university employees and others who have been impacted by the economy, layoffs and furloughs.
The credit union says it will serve as a forum where people can share leads for current job openings, as well as find links to beneficial resources based on visitor postings.
Other tools will include up-to-date state budget information, unemployment benefit details, money saving tips and financial assistance, all developed by active online community participants.
The credit union has also developed custom online financial assistance programmes to help state and university employees through budget cuts and free financial assistance plans available to all members.
David Doss, president and CEO Arizona State Credit Union, says: "The Credit Union created HelpingAZ.com to help build a strong community of people helping people".