SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is a specialized financial institution that emphasizes providing quality services to educators and their families. With roots in the education community, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is a nonprofit cooperative that prioritizes member satisfaction, financial security, and philanthropy.
History and Mission
Originally established in 1934 as Orange County Teachers’ Credit Union, the institution was created to provide teachers with a safe and reliable place to save and borrow money. Today, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union serves more than 1.2 million members throughout California. The financial institution’s mission is to provide educators and their families with the resources and guidance necessary to achieve their financial goals.
Services and Programs
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union offers a wide range of financial services and programs, including savings and checking accounts, loans, credit cards, investment and retirement planning, and insurance services. Members can also access convenient online and mobile banking services. SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union’s commitment to education extends beyond financial services. The credit union offers scholarships, classroom grants, and teacher appreciation events to support the education community.
Membership and Eligibility
Membership to SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is open to current or retired educators, retired school district employees, and their immediate family members. Immediate family members include the spouse or registered domestic partner, children, stepchildren, siblings, parents, grandparents, and grandchildren of eligible members. Membership requires a minimum $5 deposit into a share account. The credit union’s online eligibility tool can help individuals determine if they are eligible to join.
Member Satisfaction and Recognition
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union’s commitment to member satisfaction and financial stability has been recognized by numerous accolades. The credit union consistently receives excellent ratings from financial rating agencies, such as Bauer Financial and Weiss Ratings. In 2021, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union was recognized as the Best Credit Union in California by Forbes. The credit union was also awarded a 2021 J.D. Power U.S. Member Satisfaction Award for outstanding performance in customer satisfaction.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is an active participant in the communities it serves. Through partnerships with local organizations, philanthropic initiatives, and volunteerism, the credit union aims to improve the lives of its members and those around them. SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union has donated millions of dollars to education-related causes, including scholarships, classroom grants, and teacher appreciation events.
In conclusion, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is a financial institution that embodies the values of education, community, and philanthropy. Its commitment to providing quality financial services and programs to educators and their families has earned it a reputation as a reliable and trusted financial partner. By prioritizing member satisfaction, financial stability, and social responsibility, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union continues to make a positive impact on the lives of its members and the communities it serves.