The past 12 months were a whirlwind of activity at the credit union. As always, our members were at the top of our “to do” list, but there were also events to attend, seminars to present, and community organizations to help promote. For all of us at St. Helens Community, the success we had in 2016 came down to one key ingredient: You.

We Reached $200 Million in Assets
Credit union growth is primarily measured in total member assets. When St. Helens Community reached that goal in 2016, it represented a significant milestone.

Achieving that milestone means more members are entrusting us to help them meet their financial goals.  As we steadily grow, we have the ability to deliver more value to our members and continue to innovate and improve products and service offerings. We are also even better equipped to strengthen our communities, be it families, businesses, or community organizations.

One of the ways we strengthened the community last year was by conducting Financial Reality Fairs at Rainier and Scappoose High Schools. Students who attended one of these events were given a pretend career and base salary. They were then given the chance to spend their money on rent, food, insurance, fun, and entertainment. They quickly learned that a paycheck doesn’t go far when you blow it on unnecessary items. It really was financial literacy at its finest. We look forward to bringing this program to St. Helens High School in 2017.

We also got to know our members better in 2016 with a new survey program. If you shared your comments about the credit union, I want to thank you. Every survey is another opportunity for us to improve your credit union. In the coming year, you may receive one of these surveys. I hope you will take the time to complete yours and get it back to us.

Additionally, I hope you will take the time to learn about our new Save to Win program where you can win cash prizes. All you need to do is save for your future. You’ll find more about Save to Win in this newsletter and online.

As always, we want to wish you and your family a happy and prosperous New Year. We look forward to serving you in the months and years ahead.