credit union week

Adve

rtis

ing

Supp

lem

ent t

o th

e Su

n Jo

urna

l, Su

nday

, Oct

ober

16,

201

1

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, October 16, 20112 CREDIT UNION WEEK

When it comes tobuilding a soundFinancial Future...Credit Unions arethere for you!Contact your localCredit Union today–There is one forYou!

Serving Maine’s Credit Unions

Our friendly sta� invites you tocelebrate Credit Union Daywith us

on Thursday, October 20th.Refreshments and Prizes will be

served all day.

2 Middle Rd., Sabattus • 375-6538 • www.srcu4u.comRemote ATM, Rte 197, Litchfield • Member Eligibility Required

1st row: Amy Lauze, Flo Poulin, Megan Halland, Annette Caron, Amanda Thomas2nd row: Michelle Brown, Brandi Clark, Lisa Hinkley & Sue Bates

In Maine and across the country, Shared Branching means convenience for credit union membersFor s e v e n y e a r s ,

Shared Branching has allowed many

Maine credit union members to enjoy the convenience of using other Maine credit unions, as well as credit unions across the country and even the world, just as if they were their own credit union.

W i t h n e a r l y 14 5 l o c a t i o n s throughout Maine, and more than 4,300 branch locations across the country, credit unions have the fourth largest branch network in the country.

S h a r e d B r a n c h i n g a l l o w s members of participating credit

u n ion s to a c c e s s t hou s a nd s of credit union ser v ice center locat ions v ia t he cooperat ive network of service centers in the United States and overseas. Most member ser v ices a re of fered at Shared Branching locat ions across t he cou nt r y includ ing: account deposits; cash and check withdrawals; transfers between accounts; cash advances, loan

payments, and balance inquiries. E x tended ser v ice hou rs w it h weekend hours are even offered at some locations, while money orders, traveler’s checks or official checks can also be purchased at various Shared Branches.

“Shared Branching provides more locations to conduct f inancial t ra n sac t ion s t ha n a ny ot her f inancial institution in Maine, a nd st i l l enables members to receive t he exceptiona l credit union service that Maine’s credit u n ion s a re re c og n i z e d for,” explained John Murphy, president of the Maine Credit Union League. “From Madawaska to York, credit

union members can find a Shared Branch location when they travel t hroughout t he state, or even when they head out of state for work, vacation or school. Shared Branching means that a great number of Maine’s 611,000 credit union members can use their credit union across town, across state and across the country,” Murphpy said.

S h a r e d B r a n c h i n g s e r v i c e s include the CU Service Centers C a l l C e nt e r, a s e r v ic e t h a t i s av a i lable to CU member s 24/7. To access the Call Center, members call a toll-free number, 8 8 8 -8 37- 6 50 0, w h ich c a n be found on the homepage at http://

w w w. c u s e r v i c e c e n t e r s . c o m . Members need only to provide their name, credit union name, state, and specific authentication information, to receive the high level of service provided by Shared Branching. Credit Union Service Center locat ions ca n a lso be found using the iPhone App, “Find Branch!” Members can find the nearest location, as well as credit union hours, directions and a phone number.

You will f ind a complete listing of Sh a r e d Br a nc h lo c at ion s i n Ma i ne a nd nat ionw ide at w w w.mainecreditunions.org — click on “Shared Branching.”

Maine credit union websites are built for convenienceWherever you are in Maine, there is a credit union that is right for you.

A nd wherever you may be at the moment, at home, school, t he of f ice, or somew here i n

b e t w e e n , t h a n k s t o ht t p :// w w w.m a i ne c re d it u n ion s.or g , finding a credit union has never been easier.

This convenient website features a directory listing of all Maine credit unions, complete with directions

to a bra nch nea r you, phone number, and a link to the credit union website. A separate directory makes it easy to find a convenient credit union ATM locat ion in Maine, including if the location is a part of the surcharge-free SURF Network, and even if the ATM accepts deposits.

The site a lso features a blog, t it led “W hat’s More in Maine.” Here, visitors can find frequently updated posts that describe why Maine is a great place to live, work

and play, as well as what credit unions in your area are up to. It is also an easy way to provide feedback on what information, people or places you would like us to feature next.

Another source for credit union information, the Maine Credit Union League’s website, http://w w w.m a i ne c u l .or g , ha s long been an important tool for the L eag ue to com mu n icate w it h credit unions, consumers and the general public. Enhancements,

updates and upcoming events are added on a daily basis, making it a great way to stay up to date on c r e d it u n ion ne w s . W it h t he Leag ue site na med one of America’s Best Websites six years in a row, it succeeds in sharing what credit unions are all about.

For Maine’s 25-and-under crowd, youngfreemaine.com is your place to connect w ith Young & Free Maine Spokester Seth Poplaski, get advice from financial experts, and find out more about what Maine’s credit unions have to offer.

You can find information about credit unions in Maine online, anytime. Visit either site today to find out what’s going on at Maine’s credit unions.

people��r m�nth visit

Sunj�urna�.c�m

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Sunday, October 16, 2011 CREDIT UNION WEEK 3

Credit unions help build financial futures and a better MaineFrom October

16 to 22, 2 0 1 1 ,

more than 611,000 Maine residents who belong to a credit union will join the 184 million credit u n ion members belong i ng to over 49,000 credit unions in 97 countries worldwide to celebrate International Credit Union Week.

For 63 years, credit unions have set aside the third Thursday in October to celebrate International Credit Union Day. This special occasion gives credit unions an opportunity to remember their proud history, while promoting understanding and support for the credit union difference.

Look ing at a l l of t he choices available in the financial services i n d u s t r y, t h e c r e d i t u n i o n difference is clear: no matter where you are, credit unions are 100% focused on meeting and exceeding members’ financial services needs.

T here a re no stock holders at credit unions, and earnings are returned to members in the form of lower rates on loans and higher rates on sav i ngs, or i nvested back i nto t he cred it u n ion to provide more of the services that members need and want.

W hether a Maine credit union is prov iding a loa n to help a member make their home more energy efficient, giving financial counseling to a member whose company closed its doors, or simply offering a better deal on a used car loan, credit unions are supporting and serving their members and the community as a whole.

Ever y day is about ma k ing a d i f fer enc e for Ma i ne c r e d it union members. Locally or inter-nationally, during International Credit Union Week or at any time of the year — a Maine credit union is where you know your money will be local, safe, and great service is

guaranteed. Become a member today, and discover t he va lue of becoming an owner of your financial institution.

Becoming a credit union member couldn’t be easier. There is a credit union for everyone — use the tips below to f ind the Maine credit union that’s right for you.

With credit unions,

every member is

an owner with

an equal vote in

the election of

the credit union’s

volunteer board

of directors.

• Visit www.mainecreditunions.org, or call the Maine Credit Union League’s Member Services toll-free at 800-442-6715.

• Talk to your neighbors. Some credit unions have a “community” field of membership, serving a region defined by geography rather than by employment or some other association. Ask friends in your community if they know a credit union you may join.

• Ask family members. See if anyone in your family is a member of a credit union, in your community or out of state. Ask them about their experiences.

• Ask your boss. Your company may sponsor a credit union or may be a sponsor group that has access to a credit union. Many employers will directly deposit your paycheck to the credit union.

• Read the yellow pages. A display ad may state a credit union’s field of membership, or provide a number to call to ask about membership eligibility.

TIPS FOR CONSUMERS

Find the credit union that’s right for you


•325 Lisbon St.

PO Box 878Lisbon ME 04250 PH: 207-353-4144•

Visit usonline @

lisboncu.org

COMING SOON TO802 SABATTUS STREET IN LEWISTON!

L��

Wi�� GREAT rates �n as �� as3% d�� , � mo�ga� ��r�u�� h�Li�b�� C�e�i� U�i�� was � p�r�ec�

�� f�� h�� f��y’s �ude�.

J��

Sh� was �� h� m�¡ke� f�� £�¤ v¦�i§�� . J�� ¨i©ite�h� Li�b�� C�e�i� U�i�� n was ª��e � l�¤ rat� �n

1®0% °n�n±�n².

ACTOR PORTRAYAL

Credit unions bring over $73 million in savings to Maine membersDespite cha l lenging economic times, more than 611,000 Mainers continue to celebrate the savings that come with being a Maine credit union member.

A recent study found that the economic benefit of using a Maine credit union has nearly doubled since 2005, currently standing strong at more than $73 million.

In a marketplace where hidden fees and rising rates are increasingly common, credit unions’ ability to offer Maine consumers better rates, lower interest rates on loans, and fewer and lower fees on financial services keep savings to

members on the rise. In the study, Charles Lawton, a well-respected economist at Planning Decisions in South Portland, concluded that credit unions have significantly

lower, fewer or no fees compared to for-profit financial institutions.

Ma i ne C re d it Un ion L e a g ue President John Murphy said that the great efforts made to offer such

savings in a challenging economy make credit unions an increasingly valuable option for Maine people.

“The credit union philosophy of putting the interests of members f irst continues to highlight the difference between credit unions and other financial institutions. Credit unions a re ow ned a nd governed by their members, so all members benefit from better rates and lower and fewer fees. That is a key and distinct difference of credit unions. Now more than ever, Maine consumers recognize and appreciate the value of using a credit union,” he said.

Credit unions also

pay, on average,

higher dividend

and interest rates

on savings and

charge lower

interest rates

on loans.

To find a credit union near you, visit www.mainecreditunions.org.

For needs big and small, Maine credit unions have money to lendDespite an economy that has prompted many lenders to pull back, lending is accessible and strong at Maine’s credit unions.

While institutions across the country were t ig hten i ng lend i ng ava i labi l it y, Ma i ne’s credit unions continued to lend money and were sources of credit to thousands of Maine consumers, with loans outstanding to members exceeding $3.5 billion.

More than the ability to get a loan at a trusted financial institution, choosing a Maine credit union for your loan is a decision that will save you money. The most recent study on the Economic Benefit of Credit Unions To Maine Consumers found that consumers saved more than $14 million annually by having an auto loan with a Maine credit union instead of another financial institution.

Ma i ne cred it u n ions go beyond lend i ng basics to provide smaller loans to help with unexpected life events or emergencies, or just to help a member though a rough patch. Credit unions are known for providing members with smaller loans to help them get back on their feet.

No matter what you need, Ma ine credit u n ion s a re here to help. V i s it ht t p :// www.mainecreditunions.org to find a credit union and begin the lending process today.

In the past year, nearly 50 Ma ine credit unions h a v e b e e n a c t i v e

i n promot i ng yout h f i na ncia l education. From volunteering and teaching financial literacy in local schools and operating in-school branches to participating in one of t he Yout h Financia l Fitness Fa i rs coord i nated by Ma i ne’s credit union and Maine Credit Union Yout h Week, t he Ma ine Credit Union League and Maine’s cred it u n ions ex posed nea rly 8,500 Maine students last year to f inancial literacy and money management concepts.

One of the most notable financial l iteracy efforts made by Maine cred it u n ions was t he record number of credit unions t hat coordinated Financial Fitness —Money Management Experience Fairs in the past year.

Similar to an interactive ‘game of life,’ these events give high school students an opportunity to gain some real world understanding of money management. There are now 10 major fairs in northern, eastern, central and southern Maine as well as 10 smaller ones in various parts of the state.

To help Ma ine teachers br ing f ina ncia l educat ion into t heir classrooms, t he Ma ine Credit Union Leag ue has int roduced a partnership with FoolProof, a turn key, web-driven f ina ncia l literacy program. With a number of credit unions already offering the program to students and members, it is one more way that Maine credit unions are working to prepare Maine’s youth for a successful financial future.

Maine credit unions are also a valuable resource for helping adults w it h money ma nagement a nd financial planning. From providing tools to help members better manage their money, to hosting semina rs on subjects such as decreasing debt or buying a home, Maine credit unions help Maine people of all ages achieve a secure financial future.

For more i n for mat ion a bout t he ef for t s of Ma i ne’s cred it unions towards both youth and adu lt f i na ncia l l iterac y, v isit w w w.ma i ne c u l .or g a nd c l ick on the Financial Education and Resources link in the “Community Involvement” section.


Celebrate Credit Union WeekWith Your Local Credit Unions October 17-21

Maine’s Credit Unions.There is one for you.

www.mainecul.org

Central MaineCredit Union1000 Lisbon Street, Lewiston • 783-1475www.centralmainecu.com

Community Credit Union144 Pine Street, Lewiston • 783-209670 Stanley Street, Auburn www.communitycreditunion.com

Great Falls Federal Credit Union34 Bates Street, Lewiston • 782-7192760 Minot Avenue, Auburnwww.greatfalssfcu.com

Five County Credit Union35 Ash Street, Lewiston • 800-750-0959www.fivecounty.com

Lewiston MunicipalFederal Credit Union291 Pine Street, Lewiston • 783-3991www.lewistoncu.com

Maine Family Federal Credit Union555 Sabattus Street, Lewiston • 783-2071831 Minot Avenue, Auburnwww.mainefamilyfcu.com

Monmouth Federal Credit Union1176 Main Street, P.O. Box 150Monmouth • 933-2667 • 1-933-326119 A Patten Road, Greenewww.monmouthfcu.com

Otis Federal Credit Union170 Main Street, Jay • 897-0900www.otisfcu.org

Oxford Federal Credit Union225 River Road, Mexico • 369-99761591 Main Street, Oxford www.ofcu.org

Rainbow Federal Credit Union381-391 Main Street, Lewiston • 784-5435201 Lincoln Street, Lewiston20 Washington Street, Auburn172 Pine Street, So. Paris1 Lewiston Street, Mechanic Fallswww.rainbowfcu.com

Sabattus Regional Credit Union2 middle Road, Sabattus • 375-6538www.sabregionalcreditunion.com

Finance with your local

Credit Union and save.

LoansSavings

Certificates

IRA’s

Direct Deposits

CheckingAccounts

ATM & DebitCards

Home Banking

It’s all A’s for Maine’s credit unions and financial literacyMaine credit unions are at the head of the class for financial literacy efforts in 2010/11.

Maine CU League’s 2011 Desjardins Youth Financial Education Award First-Place Winners: Community CU, Central Maine FCU

Maine CU League’s 2011 Desjardins Adult Financial Education Award First-Place Winners: Community CU, University CU

After a search that attract-e d a n i m p r e s s i v e 2 6 applicants, Maine’s credit

unions announced the w inner of t he You ng & Fr e e Ma i ne spokesperson compet it ion at a surprise event in June. Set h Popla sk i, a 24-yea r-old f rom Bangor, was awarded the position.

As the spokesperson for Young & Free Maine, Poplaski works on behalf of Maine’s credit unions in a one-year contract with salary. He serves as a reporter and advocate for his age group, attending events and creating daily online content including blog articles and videos to keep YoungFreeMaine.com an information hub for the 25-and-under crowd in Maine.

Poplaski has also been outfitted with tools of the trade, including a smart phone with a paid contract for the year, a Mac Book Pro laptop and digital video camera, which he will be able to keep at the end of his term. He can also be seen driving around Maine in the Young & Free Maine vehicle, a Chev y Cruze, which he has use of during his term.

Young & Free Maine includes a f inancial headstart with a new a c c ou nt c a l le d t he f r e e 4 M E Account, designed with 18 to 25 year olds in mind. Maine is the only New England state to offer this program, which has proven successf ul in connect ing w it h G en Y i n reg ions t h roug hout North America.

What does it mean to be 18-25 in Maine? Here are some thoughts and advice from Maine’s Young & Free Spokester, Seth Poplaski.

“Young & Free Maine is a program p o w e r e d b y M a i n e ’s c r e d i t u n ion s, deter m i ned to br i ng financial freedom and fitness to 18-25 year olds.

What does Young & Free Maine entail?It mea n s i n for m i ng t h i s age group about being fiscally smart whether you’re in college or in the work force.

As a Broadcast Journalism major and graduate of the University

of Ma i ne Orono i n 2009, I was qu ick ly t h row n i nto

a d u l t h o o d w i t h o u t a job i n my f ield. I had

dreams of graduating, getting a job, traveling the country, and in the next few years, buying

a house.

Unfortunately, my student loa n pay ments k icked in

and other contributing factors

a f fected my pla ns. Instead of working in the newsroom making a decent salary, I found myself serving and bartending in Bangor, and making just enough to get by.

With the state of our economy today, I find that this is the same boat that many young adults are in. We either have no financial goals going into college or the work force, or the plans for our lives are unrealistic.

For me, graduation was the focus, but there was no plan for the in-between time of graduation and finding an actual job. It took me a year and a half to find a job outside of the restaurant business and it was not an easy task.

I applied to many jobs and my main response was that there were many qualified applicants, and the position went to someone else. So what is my point?

The reality of today is that you probably won’t find a great paying job right out of school. You may enter the work force r ight out of high school, or you may go to college and get a degree. Regardless of what path you choose, you have to remember that money does not always come easy.

Remember t hat Young & Free Maine is here for the “Gen Y” crowd. We’re all in this together. Let’s make this generation the generat ion t hat helps cha nge Maine for the better.”

For more of Seth’s tips on how to live Young & Free in Maine, and how Maine’s credit unions can help, visit youngfreemaine.com.


* Member eligibility required, restrictions apply, new financing, annual percentage rate.

Great Falls 34 Bates Street, Lewiston • 782-7191760 Minot Ave., Auburn • 753-0500

www.greatfallsfcu.com

RATES HAVE FALLEN!Auto and

Recreation Loans as low as

2.75%*

Need a Loan?Stop by and

See Us!

We HaveMoney

To Lend!

First-ever Young & Free Maine spokesperson shares the credit union difference with Maine’s 25-and-under crowd

Submitted photoSeth Poplaski, a 24-year-old from Bangor, was awarded the spokesperson position for Young & Free Maine, where he works on behalf of Maine’s credit unions and has a one-year contract with salary.

“Here are some lessons I’ve learned along the way:• Prepare yourself for the hard financial decisions ahead;

• Seek out financial advice from reputable sources;

• Sit down and make a realistic budget for yourself;

• Track where your money goes. I tracked mine and discovered that I spend an average of $1,200 a year on coffee shop visits alone;

• Setting yourself up for financial success at a young age is probably one of the most important decisions you can make at this point in time. “

— Seth Poplaski


TrueConvenience

We’re Open til’ 8pmTRUE CONVENIENCE

We’re open

‘til 8:00pm

8 Locations Open ‘til 8pm with 6 Other Branches Open to Serve You

Across town oracross country,stay connectedwith sharedbranching.

BathAuburn*Augusta*Brunswick*FalmouthLewistonLisbonPortland

RocklandTopsham*Scarborough*Skowhegan*Waterville*Windham**Open 8am-8pm,Mon-Sat

Serving those who live, work, or worship in the counties of Androscoggin, Cumberland, Kennebec, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Somerset, Waldo & Knox

fivecounty.com1.800.750.0959

Open an accountonline 24/7

EasyFast

SecureConvenient

It’s a new record for Maine credit unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger

2010 ma rked a n-other record-s e t t i n g

year for the Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger. The year’s total funds raised in this campaign is $402,740.02, an increase of nearly $27,000 over last year’s record. This impressive total was announced in February at a special ceremony featuring NBA Hall of Famer Rick Barry.

Barry cited the accomplishment of Maine’s credit unions as “evidence of what can be done when you work as a team. I applaud credit unions for taking on this cause and giving back to their communities and for the credit unions and their members for answering the call to action. This is an extraordinary achievement, especially in these economic times.”

Since 1990, Maine’s credit unions have raised over $3.9 million to help end hunger in Maine. One hundred percent of all funds raised stay in Maine, and go directly to the cause, benefiting the very communities in which the funds are raised.

Each June, the Campaign holds a ‘Share the Bread’ event, when along with loaves of bread, Maine credit unions contribute $17,000, one of the largest single-day contributions to multiple hunger organizations in Maine, to organizations in every county in the state.

Jon Paradise, governmental and public af fairs manager for the Maine Credit Union League, said that more than donating much needed funds, events like this are also about raising awareness for this critical need.

“As we recognize the significance of hunger in Maine and, most specifically, feeding a number of Maine’s children during summer vacation when there are not meals provided at school, Maine’s credit unions w i l l prov ide resources to help orga ni zat ions in each county make a positive impact on thousands of people in Maine,” said Paradise.

To ensure that even the most rural Maine towns receive the food they need, the Campaign partnered with Good Shepherd Food Bank

in 2005 to introduce the state’s only Food Mobile, a truck that has since transported over 1.5 million pounds of food to pantries throughout the state.

The Food Mobile continues to be an invaluable resource to Maine’s food pantries, not only because of the rise of gas and oil prices, but throughout the winter months when the truck is able to travel to remote food pantries that may have trouble sending someone to pick up food. The Food Mobile celebrates its sixth anniversary this year.

This past year, these efforts have been suppor ted by a u n ique fundraiser, as credit unions, as well as retailers throughout the state have been selling The Amazing Mu sic of Mainers , Volu me 1. With proceeds benefiting Ending Hunger, this 27-song 2-CD set features a wide variety of artists, all with ties to Maine.

This music is a piece of Maine h i s t o r y a n d f e a t u r e s s u c h musicians as: Don McLean, Dan Fogelberg , Ru st ic O ver tones, Schooner Fare, Bi l l Chinnock, Cindy Bullens, Devonsquare, Noel Paul Stookey and many more, including “The Maine Stein” song with a digitally remastered version by the legendary Rudy Vallee.

The CD a lso inter jects Ma ine humor at its best, with short cuts

by comedian Tim Sample a nd t he l at e Ma r s h a l l Dodge. T h is CD clea rly s t r u c k a c h o r d w i t h Mainers, as it climbed to be the number one-selling CD in Maine, according to Bull Moose Music.

The CDs are available at 200 Ma ine credit union locations across the state, Best Buy, Bull Moose Music, Mr. Paperback and other select retail locations.

For more information on how you can help Maine’s credit unions end hunger, v isit w w w.ma inecu l.org and click on the Ending H u n g e r l i n k u n d e r “Community Involvement.”

Submitted photoJohn Murphy, president of the Maine Credit Union League, Luke Labbe, chair of Social Responsibility committee, and NBA Hall-of-Famer, Rick Barry look over the “evidence of what can be done when you work as a team.”

i� �n

twitter.com/SunJournal

Follow Us!


Comprehensive, Personalized SolutionsFor Credit Union members & employees

800.287.3379 207.773.0925www.insuranceTRUST.US

[email protected] Partners

InsuranceTrust

Monmouth Federal Credit Union“We Invest In You”

1176 Main Street • Monmouth, ME 0425919a Patten Road • Greene, ME 04236

We are celebrating Credit Union Week All Week!

Join us for fun & refreshments.

Lobby & Drive-upMon. & Wed. 8:30-4:30, Tues. 8:30-3:00Thurs. & Fri. 8:30-5:00, Sat. 9-12Serving: Monmouth • Greene • Turner • Wales • Leeds • Litchfield

Say “hello” to SURF Dude, and say “so long” to Mr. FeesTired of seeing fees lurking behind that ATM?

SURF Dude, the mascot of Maine credit unions’ CU24 SURF ATM Network, is a sure sign that ATM fees are a problem of the past.

C r e d i t u n i o n s h a v e m o r e surcharge-free ATMs across Maine than just about anyone. When you see SURF Dude, you know that you’re in the SURF Zone — and that means no ATM fees.

Credit union members can save at least an average of $300 a year on surcharge fees when using the SURF network — one of the largest ATM networks in the state. With the SURF network, ‘no fees’ means just that — not only will you see no fees at your ATM, there are no hidden fees anywhere else.

In addition, a number of SURF ATM locations give thousands of Maine credit union members the ability to not only access cash but to also make deposits, surcharge-free.

Formed in 1999, 90 percent of Maine’s credit unions now partici-pate in the CU24 SURF Network through the Maine Credit Union L e a g ue. T her e a r e now 22 3 surcharge-free ATMs through-

out the state. “This is what credit unions are all about — cooperating w it h each ot her for t he good of a l l credit union members,” explained John Murphy, president of the Maine Credit Union League.

Need an ATM on the go? An iPhone app allows you to find surcharge-free ATMs in Maine from your current location. It’s a simple way to map out where you can find cash wherever you are. The iPhone

app is free, and lists a l l SURF ATMs, contact info and mapping instructions. Visit the iTunes app store and download it today. For a complete listing of the SURF ATM locations in Maine where you

can find SURF Dude, visit http:// www.mainecreditunions.org and click on “Find an ATM.”

LOL!

Someonesays there’sa better wayto search for

a homein Maine?

In today’s economy, it can be dif f icult to k now where to turn for help.

Members of Maine credit unions, however, know that they have a partner they can always rely on.

Whether a member has lost their job, is unable to keep up with rising healthcare costs, or is struggling to save for a child’s college education, Maine’s credit unions are always there for their members.

“Maine credit unions are about helping people, during good times a nd, u n for t u nately, d i f f ic u lt times. The ways in which Maine

credit unions work with members through tough times is something credit unions do every day and have done since they were formed,” explained John Murphy, president of the Maine Credit Union League.

One challenge that credit u n ion s h av e r e c ent l y helped members tackle is the high cost of fuel.

A survey conducted by the Maine Credit Union League found that more than two-thirds of the state’s credit unions are offering special

fuel and/or energy loans to help keep staying warm affordable for thousands of Maine consumers.

M u r p h y e x p l a i n e d that the specia l loans a g a i n d e m o n s t r a t e “t he c om m it ment of Maine’s credit unions to helping the more than 611,0 0 0 Ma i ne cred it

union members, especially during difficult economic times.”

Mu r phy added, “A s member-ow ned f inancia l cooperatives, credit unions are about the needs

of their members and this is yet another example.”

Ot her ways t hat Maine credit unions have helped members weat her toug h t i mes i nclude assisting in debt consolidation, reducing interest rates, allowing s k ipp e d p a y ment s , c r e at i n g loan extension plans, changing pay ment terms and prov iding general assistance in budgeting and financial counseling.

For a complete list and locations of Maine credit unions, go to www.mainecreditunions.org.

Since the first

Maine credit

union was formed

in 1921, Maine

credit unions

have focused

on supporting

members, no

matter how big or

small their needs.


Celebrate Maine Credit Union Week with us with daily drawings

555 Sabattus St., Lewiston831 Minot Ave., Auburn

783-2071 • 1-800-783-2071www.mainefamilyfcu.com

Maine Credit Union WeekOctober 16-22, 2011

If you are not currently a member of the credit union but would like to, call or stop by one of our offices. Credit union member-ship brings money-saving benefits, and it lasts a lifetime! We are proud to be growing and working hard for Maine families.

No matter the economy, Maine credit unions fuel members’ lives

Your money is safe in a Maine credit unionWith financial institutions making headlines in recent years for their struggles as our country and state work to rebui ld af ter dif f icult economic times, many consumers may wonder who they can trust with their hard earned money. This is something that members of Maine’s credit unions already know the answer to — their money is safe at the financial institution they own — their credit union.

M a i n e c r e d i t u n i o n s o f f e r something that no other f inan-cial institution can — the oppor-tunit y to be a n ow ner of your i nst it ut ion, a nd a boa rd t hat includes unpaid volunteers who are democratically elected by the credit union’s members. These volunteers work with credit union management to conduct credit union operations in a safe and sound manner that is singularly focused on serving the members.

“Maine credit unions are owned by their members. This means that each credit union is dedicated to serving the community and the people who live there,” explained John Murphy, president of the Maine Credit Union League.

T h e Na t i o n a l C r e d i t Un i o n Administration, or NCUA, is the federal government agency that charters and supervises federal credit unions. NCUA also operates and manages the National Credit Union Sha re Insura nce Fund, similar to the FDIC which insures banks. Member savings in Maine credit unions are insured by the NCUSIF, which is backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government.

Member deposits

in federal credit

unions are insured

to at least

$250,000 by the

National Credit

Union Share

Insurance Fund.

Member deposits are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. gover n ment . T hese accou nt s include reg u la r sha res, sha re drafts (or check ing accounts),

money ma rket accou nts, a nd share certificates. Individuals with account balances totaling $250,000 or less at the same insured credit union have full NCUSIF coverage. Not one penny of insured savings has ever been lost by a member of a federally insured credit union.

Stay on top�f wh��'s h��e�i�g!

F�ll�w us ��

twitter.com/SunJournal


This Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA and isan Equal Housing Lender. Member eligibility required.

144 Pine Street, Lewiston ME ‐ 40 Stanley Street, Auburn MEPhone 207.783.2096 ‐ Fax 207.783.2093

www.communitycreditunion.com

COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION

LOOK IN THEMIRROR - - IT’S YOU!When you’re a member of Community Credit Union, you’re an owner. Credit Union’s are not‐for‐profitfinancial cooperatives who exist to serve the members. Community Credit Union is governed by a

Volunteer Board of Directors, all of whom are members of the Credit Union. These Board members areelected annually by their fellow Credit Union members.

VISIT COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION THISWEEK &DISCOVER THE CREDIT UNION DIFFERENCE !

Enter toWin $100 in Cash - Get a free gift - Enjoy a fresh apple

Credit Union Week

October 17-22

Kids’ Coloring Contest

Double Monty Dollars withDeposits

Floor Systems Franco-AmericanHeritage Center

Designs by Skip The CarriageHouse

ABC Pool & SpaCenter

Ramada Shaw’s Lewiston Sam’s ItalianFoods

1000 Lisbon Street Lewiston, Maine

(207) 777-6202www.centralmainecu.com

Bank where you belong.

Auction items are on display in the Credit Union lobby.Bid high! Bid often! Bidding closes at 12:00 noon October29th. Highest bidders will be notified on October 31, 2011.

“Spin the Wheel” New memberships openedand new loans closed this week will spin to win a gift!

WJBQ Radio with Lori Voornas onsiteFriday, October 21: 10:00 A.M – 1:00 P.M.

Silent Auction to benefit Maine CreditUnions Ending Hunger in Maine Campaign

Maine credit union members share saving tips, win cash

To help spread t he word about Shared Branching, as well as to give members access to unique

money saving t ips, Maine’s credit unions have launched the website ShareItAndSave.org. There, credit union members can share a financial tip to be posted on the site.

Each month, the member who shares the most unique tip is awarded $250. The site also features a Shared Branch Locator, with which users can enter an address or intersection to find the three closest Shared Branches.

T here a re c u r rent ly nea rly 145 Sha red Bra nching locat ions in Ma ine, a nd over 4,300 locat ions across t he cou nt r y a nd internationally. To find a location near you, or to share your savings tip, visit ShareItAndSave.org. Or, for a listing of the thousands of nationwide locations, visit www.cuservicecenter.com.

• “Why pay for cable when there are videos and TV shows to watch on the internet for free.”

• “I collect the change that my two teenage daughters leave laying

around the house and when they need money I give it to them.”

• “Instead of buying wrapping paper for birthdays or holidays, hide the gifts and give the receiver clues to find.”

• “I bought a voltage reader and the electronics that use the most energy remain unplugged until ready for use.”

“Select a number of days per month where you do not spend any money. Make it a challenge.”

Online or on the go, Maine credit unions are there

Not only do credit unions provide top -not c h p er s on a l s er v ic e, they offer the latest and most convenient technology. Maine’s credit unions are consistent ly introducing t he leading tech-nology, including the ability to conduct on l i ne t ra nsact ions, online lending, electronic check imaging, instant debit card issue, and more.

Credit unions continue to introduce new products to enhance the lives of their members, without compromising the most important connection of all: the relationship between the credit union and each individual member.

“The ability to implement new technology while still maintaining a level of member service that ranks first out of all other financial institutions in Maine is what sets Maine’s credit unions apart in the financial services industry,” explained John Murphy, president of the Maine Credit Union League.

“We are able to give members what they want — access to the latest technology and exceptional personal service. Credit unions work hard to provide both, and credit union members appreciate that,” he added.

This high level of service has now gone mobile, as Maine consumers can have money-saving tips sent to their cel l phone. W hen you text “ATM at 22700” you receive information on saving money by using a Maine credit union.

With the combined strength of persona l member ser v ice and the commitment to delivering exceptional leading technology services, Maine’s credit unions c ont i nue t o of fer t he mo s t comprehensive a nd enjoyable experience in today’s f inancial services industry.

A link to all Maine credit unions and their services can be found at www.mainecreditunions.org.

Maine credit union members invest in America and drive away with savingsSince its inception in January of 2009, Maine credit union members have driven away with some big savings thanks to the “Invest in America” program. Invest in America is credit unions’ auto loan discount program with auto manufacturers General Motors Corp. and Chrysler Corp.

With discounts ranging from $500-$1,000 for credit union members plus additional incentives, the Invest In America program has

translated into significant savings for Maine credit union members who have bought GM or Chrysler cars.

The program also promotes products and services from U.S.-based companies, providing a stimulus for our economy. With 40 percent of Maine credit unions participating, nearly 900 new GM or Chrysler cars have been sold to credit union members in Maine through this program.

On a national level, credit union members have saved $298 million on vehicle purchases, with 436,640 vehicles sold through Invest in America.

In addition to vehicles, Invest in America also offers savings on American products you use every day, from the fun, like f lowers, to the practical, like tax services.

You can f ind all of the details by visiting www.lovemycreditunion.org.

people��r m�nth visit Sunj�urna�.c�m


Member Appreciation Week!October 17th-22nd, 2011

Thank You for being our MEMBERS!

Monday, Oct. 17-Tuesday, Oct. 18-Wednesday, Oct. 19-Thursday, Oct. 20-Friday, Oct. 21-Saturday, Oct. 22 -MEMBER Appreciation SalePlus All entries from the week will be pooled together and one of our memberswill win $500 worth of heating fuel from the company of your choice.

Drawing for aMac’s Grill Gift Card

Drawing for aVisa Gift Card

Drawing for aLowes Gift Card

Give-a-ways for memberswho visit our locations

Drawing forDavinci’s Gift Card

Special RateLoan Promotion

For Maine credit unions, it’s easy being greenLong before it was cool, Maine credit unions knew the value of “green” — and we’re not just talking about cash. Credit unions can help you conserve energy, as many Maine credit unions offer special rates on loans for fuel-efficient cars, and on home equity loans to make your house more energy efficient.

Credit unions also offer a variety of services that allow employees and members to cut back on the paper used to conduct transactions. Debit cards are not only convenient, they save paper needed for checks. Direct Deposit saves time and resources, not to mention late payment fees, while online bill pay will save both paper and the cost of a stamp. Many credit unions also provide the option of E-Statements, sending your CU statement to your email inbox instead of your mailbox.

Some credit unions a lso of fer eAlerts, a service which allows the credit union to electronically notify you about account transactions that you want to know about, such as a deposit, withdrawal, or when your account balance drops below a preselected amount.

Visit your local credit union to check out the many ways your CU can help you protect the environment. To f i nd a c red it u n ion, v i sit www.mainecreditunions.org.

Maine credit unions share tips to keep consumers safe

In today’s economy, every cent counts. To make sure that a scam doesn’t

come between you and your hard-ea r ned money, Ma i ne cred it unions are continuously working to educate members on how they can keep their money and identity safe. Here are some of the ways that you can protect yourself against this ever-present threat.

On the phone:

• Never give your Social Security number, account number, or credit card number to anyone who calls you;

• If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from your credit u n i o n a s k i n g f o r a c c o u n t information, hang up, and call

back using the number on your account statement.

When creating a personal ID number:

• Don’t use your mother’s maiden name;

• Don’t use your birth date;

• Don’t use the last four digits of your social security number;

• Don’t use your telephone number or address;

Choose a unique combination of letters and numbers.

At the ATM:

• Never share your ATM PIN;

• Memorize your PIN – never write it down;

• Be aware of your surroundings when approaching an ATM;

• If you experience any unusual occurrences when using an ATM, or notice discrepancies with your account, report it to your credit union immediately;

• Repor t a lost or stolen ATM card immediately.

Think twice before depositing checks that:

• Came to you via an Internet sale;

• Came to you w ith conditions such as you having to send money back to someone from the check’s proceeds or anyone;

• Are issued from an unknown or unrecognized party.

To find our more on how you can protect yourself from identity theft, contact a credit union near you, or visit www.mainecul.org.


A credit union is there for you – to see you through life’s major

moments. With more than 200 Maine locations, there’s a credit union

there to help you build a strong �nancial future with better rates and

lower fees. During this International Credit Union Week, members

celebrate the many ways credit unions are working for them.

Credit unions make it easy to stay connected to your money – at the

nearly 145 Shared Branching locations in Maine and over 4,300 across

the country, where you can conduct transactions just like you do at your

own credit union. And, with one of Maine’s largest surcharge-free ATM

networks, SURF, you can access your money fee-free at over 200 ATMs.

Look into Maine’s credit unions. When you join the over 611,000 consumers

who are members of a Maine credit union, you’ll like what you see!

MOVE FORWARD. GO EVERYWHERE.

WITH YOUR LOCAL CREDIT UNION.

www.youngfreemaine.com | www.mainecreditunion�.org

AT A CREDIT UNION, THERE’s MORE FOR YOU.

The Member-Friendly Financial Network

sHARED BRANCHINGFor The 25 AndUnder Crowd

credit union week

Documents