As International Credit Union Day approaches, Sebasticook Valley FCU celebrates 70 years of service
PITTSFIELD – Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union is celebrating 70 years of service as International Credit Union Day, observed on Oct. 19, nears. The credit union began in 1953 as a financial co-op formed by employees at Northeast Shoe Company in Pittsfield whose members wished to accumulate savings and build credit. As factory workers with long hours, it was difficult for them to become members of a traditional bank, and so they created the co-op on-site at the factory where they could deposit money into their accounts, cash their checks and apply for loans.
Today, Sebasticook Valley FCU is a community-based credit union with offices in Newport and Pittsfield, and has grown to serve members across six counties in Maine: Franklin, Kennebec, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset, and Waldo. The credit union’s commitment to members has not changed since their earliest days, offering extended hours and a flexible lending structure to help members achieve their financial goals.
BACKPACK DONATION — Sebasticook Valley FCU Operations Manager Mindy Nyman, second from left, presents a check to the Hometown Health Backpack Program.
“As we look back on 70 years of service now in six counties across Maine, I am filled with pride for our community and gratitude for our members,” said Sebasticook Valley FCU President Jim Lemieux. “While much has changed with advancements in technologies and expansion into new communities, our initial values of community and helping others have not changed. Our member-owned structure lends itself to a dedicated approach to member service that you would not receive at a larger corporate lender. At Sebasticook Valley FCU, our community commitment and strong connections with members allow us to approve loans that may otherwise not be approved by larger lenders.”
The credit union recently participated in the Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger. Since 1990, the campaign has contributed over $12.3 million to end hunger in our state. Last year alone, the alliance of credit unions raised more than $1 million, with Sebasticook Valley Federal Credit Union raising tens of thousands of dollars on its own. One hundred percent of these funds are distributed to food pantries, in-school food pantries, snack pack programs and other programs in the Sebasticook Valley region to help those that are food insecure.
In celebration of its 70th anniversary, Sebasticook Valley FCU will hold anniversary events for staff and members at the Newport branch on Oct. 26 and at the Pittsfield branch on Oct. 27. Food, giveaways and prizes will be offered, with a grand prize of a $500 VISA gift card drawing for members.
To learn more about Sebasticook Valley FCU, visit www.svfcume.com.