Why do hundreds of millions of people worldwide choose credit unions? Because each credit union puts an emphasis on providing service to its members and local communities. That local service—community by community—contributes to a global reach that touches more than 403 million members. As cooperative and democratic financial institutions, credit unions' success depends on the success of their members and their community. Your best interest is in our best interest. This October 17, Members First Credit Union of Florida will join more than 82,000 credit unions from 98 countries to celebrate the 76th anniversary of International Credit Union Day®.
Credit unions strive to make the world a better place for their members by offering affordable rates and high-quality service that simplify their lives and empower them to meet their financial goals. We're sharing how credit unions like Members First fuel a force of global good.
What Makes Credit Unions Unique?
Equal Ownership
Credit unions like Members First, are democratically controlled and member-owned and operated. Each member has equal ownership and one vote regardless of how much money he or she has in savings. For instance, every member is given the right to vote on important credit union decisions like the selection of credit union board members.
Not for Profit
Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives that provide a safe, convenient place for members to save money and access loans and other financial services. Because credit unions are member-owned and operated not-for-profit organizations who don't have external shareholders they need to pay profits back to, they are able to provide their membership with:
- Lower rates and more favorable terms on loans
- Lower and fewer fees that can often be avoided or forgiven depending on the situation
- High savings rates and dividends
Social Purpose: People Helping People
Credit unions exist to serve their members, not to make a profit. Every member counts, including those of modest means. This "people-first" philosophy impels credit unions and their team members to get involved in the community and support worthwhile causes.
At Members First, we give back through employee-driven fundraising efforts and partnerships throughout the community. To name a few, we have established relationships with the University of West Florida and numerous education associations within the school districts including the Escambia Retired Teachers Assocation, Escambia Education Association, Escambia Public Schools Foundation, Exceptional Student Education (Project SEARCH), and are a proud sponsor of both the Escambia County and Santa Rosa County Teacher of the Year.
Volunteer Leadership
Each credit union, including Members First Credit Union of Florida, is governed by a volunteer board of directors that is elected by and from the credit union's membership.
Financial Education for Members
Credit unions place particular importance on educational opportunities for their members and the public to help everyone become better-educated consumers of financial services. At Members First, we're dedicated to your financial well-being. That's why we provide educational resources, training, and counseling with a financial fitness coach and certified credit counselor to help our members, their families, and the community better understand financial matters.
Trust
Credit unions have received positive press for being trustworthy and resilient institutions during tumultuous times. Credit union members worldwide can be proud of these accomplishments and rest assured that their money is safe at the credit union.
At Members First, your safety and security is important to us. That's why we take our responsibility as your financial partner seriously. We practice sensible investing, adhere to sound financial underwriting practices, comply with state laws and regulations, maintain certain levels of liquidity and capital to withstand shifts in the market, and are regularly audited by an independent auditing firm. In addition, your deposits are federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to $250,000.
Members First Credit Union of Florida Benefits
There are so many upsides to being a credit union member. With your membership at Members First, you have access to these additional benefits:
Online Services
Other Services
- Notary Services
- Discounted Services
- Insurance Services
- Credit Counseling
- Free coin counting for any amount under $100*
* The fee for coin counting machine use is 8% for any amount over $100, for consumers. For business accounts, the fee is 8% of the entire amount. For all non-members, the fee is 20% of the entire amount.
Reap the Benefits of Membership
There is no shortage of benefits at Members First. Learn how you can become a member today. Already a member? Share the benefits of being a member and earn cash!
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