EFNCU Welcome

Important Information Regarding the Upcoming Merger!

We’re thrilled to announce that our encurage financial network CU (EFNCU) members have voted overwhelmingly in favor of our upcoming merger with Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU)! This exciting partnership will bring you expanded products and tools, increased convenience, and a stronger impact on our community. Our primary focus is ensuring you have everything you need for a successful financial journey.

Here’s what you can look forward to as a valued GLCU member:

  • Expanded Products and Services: Access a wider array of financial products, services, and helpful financial tools and resources tailored to your needs.
  • Increased Convenience: Enjoy GLCU’s larger branch network, advanced digital banking technology, and enhanced online tools for seamless account management wherever you are.
  • Stronger Community Impact: Benefit from expanded financial education programs, personalized counseling services, and robust support for local initiatives through the GLCU Foundation for Financial Empowerment.

Important Note: Rest assured; your existing accounts will not be immediately impacted. You’ll continue to use your current account numbers, debit cards, and digital banking login information until later this year.

Mark your calendars:

  • Legal Day 1: The official merger date is June 1, 2024. On this day, you’ll officially become a GLCU member and gain access to all the benefits and privileges that come with it.

As we look forward to this exciting new chapter together, we remain deeply committed to providing you with exceptional financial services and experiences. We’ll keep you informed with regular updates as we work to integrate our services and expand our commitment to you and your community. Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Find a Branch

A message from Steve Bugg, President & CEO of GLCU

 

Take Up To 2.00% APR Off Your Next Loan!

We're celebrating our merger with Encurage Financial Network Credit Union with a limited time discount on select loan types!

Learn More

 

FAQs

  1. No, the combined credit union will continue to serve the Greater Chicago Area. All EFNCU members will automatically become members of the combined credit union.

     

  2. GLCU has lower or no fees on many services, so you’ll likely save money. We’ll provide a full fee overview closer to the system integration.

  3. For now, you’ll continue using the same website (firstfcu.org), online banking, and mobile app as always. We’ll give you plenty of notice before any changes happen later this year.

  4. Yes! You’ll gain immediate access to:

    • Money Mammals®
    • Credit Builder Loans
    • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
    • Business Banking Solutions
    • Financial Counseling

    Even more products and services will become available later this year.

  5. Both credit unions sought a partner that shares our passion, dedication, and loyalty to our teams, members, and communities. We found that in each other! By merging, GLCU and ENFCU can expand our reach to more individuals and families in need of financial services and education.

    Together, we’ll increase our community investment, building on the 4,000+ volunteer hours and $30 million in community assets already saved, and enhance our resources to develop innovative programs that support financial well-being throughout our communities.

  6. Both credit unions recognize the value of our talented teams. EFNCU employees will become part of the GLCU team, and we are committed to retaining that talent and leadership.

  7. Absolutely! The boards of both credit unions unanimously approved the proposed merger and are incredibly excited about the growth and benefits it will bring to our members, employees, and communities.

  8. This merger allows us to implement best practices for greater positive impact on our members, employees, and communities. We’ll expand our branch network across the Chicago area, increasing our responsiveness to members’ financial needs. Additionally, this partnership will allow us to expand EFNCU’s community programs through the GLCU Foundation for Financial Empowerment. Together, we’ll serve over 94,000 members and hold approximately $1.5 billion in assets, creating a stronger combined organization.

  9. As a larger credit union, we’ll have more resources for continued growth and innovation. This translates to even more benefits for members, such as expanded product and service offerings, new technologies, and enhanced services. We’re committed to preserving the unique identities of EFNCU’s partner credit unions through advisory councils to ensure we remain close to all members and communities.

  10. This partnership will offer employees increased career development opportunities and specializations while maintaining a positive, collaborative culture. We’ll also establish best practices and systems, providing employees with the resources they need to excel in their roles.

  11. This merger will offer members:

    • More Access: Expanded branch locations and enhanced digital services.
    • Expanded Products/Services: A wider range of financial products and services to meet your needs.
    • Greater Responsiveness: Enhanced ability to adapt to evolving financial needs.
    • Improved Technology: Continued investment in the best digital banking solutions.
    • More Branches: A combined network of 19 branches across the Chicagoland area.
    • Familiar Faces: The same knowledgeable and friendly staff you know and trust.

  12. No, the combined credit union will continue to serve the Greater Chicago Area. All EFNCU members will automatically become members of the combined credit union.

  13. Great news! ENFCU members have voted to approve the merger with GLCU, and we’ve secured all required regulatory approvals. We’re now focused on finalizing the merger process, with Legal Day 1 set for June 1, 2024. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to this exciting milestone.

  14. We’re working hard to make this a seamless transition. As the merger progresses, we’ll coordinate the consolidation of our systems and minimize any downtime for members. We are committed to keeping you informed every step of the way.

  15. Fixed-rate loans and deposit products will remain the same. For variable-rate accounts, we are committed to offering competitive rates.

Have more questions? Please contact us!

Visit firstfcu.org