When it comes to helping members, Maine Credit Unions do more

Recently, Clem Blakely, a member of Down East Credit Union, came into the CU’s Unity branch with a pesky problem: birds were wreaking havoc on his vineyard. As one of the most environmentally friendly ways to scare the birds is with Mylar Balloons, he approached the credit union, and asked if they would be able to provide him with balloons featuring the credit union’s logo. As the Common Ground Fair was soon taking place near his vineyard, many people would see the credit union’s logo, benefiting both the credit union, and the member’s grapes! With little time before the event (and before the birds could cause more damage) the credit union quickly ordered the balloons, and worked to rush them to the member with time to spare. This is just one example of the many ways that Maine Credit Unions go the extra mile to help a member, with everything from refinancing a home to reclaiming their vines.

Diana D., Maine Credit Union League

Protect Yourself from Card Fraud with More Information

Card fraud protection is probably the most important part of using credit and debit cards. After all, we use our cards for shopping, traveling, accessing money and a variety of other things, but as a card user you need to make sure that you are protecting yourself, and your money. While the growth of technology has allowed us to have credit and debit cards that we can use anywhere, this convenience also comes with fraud risk, from card skimming at gas pumps to online phishing.

As an avid online shopper myself, I am always double checking the security of a site before I purchase anything, and always make sure that I save the confirmation page as well as my account statements in case I need to dispute a charge. Maine Credit Unions are a great resource for information on how to keep your money safe. Many credit unions have information on their websites with tips on how to keep your card information safe. And while some tips may seem like common sense, like not to write your PIN number on your card, it is safety measures like that which can keep you from being a victim of card fraud.

- Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

No matter the season, Maine CUs do more for their communities

Between getting kids ready for school, getting back into the swing of things after summer vacations, and trying to enjoy every last minute of warmer weather, September in Maine can be hectic. However, as colder months approach it is important to remember those who have the greater concern of hoping they will be able to feed their families and keep them warm this winner.

Maine credit unions took time away from the September rush for a different type of scramble, one that takes place on the golf course. On September 10, credit union employees from throughout Maine and even beyond the state gathered at Poland Springs Golf Course to raise money and awareness for the Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger at the 15th Annual Norm Nolette Golf Tournament. The tournament raised an impressive total of over $36,000, an amount that will go a long way to helping the many people in need of food in our state. This event is one more way that credit unions help bring the issue of hunger in Maine in the forefront of the minds of those in the community and help to those who need it most.


- Diana D., Maine Credit Union League

Maine celebrations make it easier to say ‘so long’ to summer

In a time when everything is about being plugged in, online and connecting with friends through the internet, it is nice to go to an event that is about connecting with your community in person. And what is more low-tech than a parade? As I visited my hometown during its Sesquicentennial celebration Labor Day weekend, I felt like I had time traveled to an era when the main entertainment was gathering together to in the center of town to catch up and enjoy local entertainment and the late summer sunshine.

The feeling is also more relaxed, as the parade moved slowly to accommodate horses, antique cars the high school marching band, and even a juggler on stilts. No one minds when a float stops so people can chat with those they haven’t seen for a while. Even one of our state senators, who is a native of the town, stops to talk to parade watchers throughout the entire two mile route. It is people and events like this make Maine the perfect place to slow down and say goodbye to summer.

- Diana D., Maine Credit Union League

Credit unions take the “labor” out of holiday weekend travel

Most people see Labor Day weekend as a last chance for summer traveling before fall weather sets in. Whether you are taking an overnight trip to Bar Harbor or a four day weekend out of state like I am, there is a lot you need to think about and plan. You need to decide on where you are going to stay, what you are going to pack, what activities to do and everything in between. Maine is full of activities for everyone. From hiking or sailing to theme parks and antiquing there are plenty of activities to savor the last bit of summer.

And for those times when you want to take the train to Boston, or head further south like I am you really appreciate the simple beauty of Maine and all it has to offer. I may worry about the weather, and making sure I don’t forget to pack my toothbrush, but I know that when the excitement of the weekend is over it will feel nice to be home again.

Being a member of a credit union allows you the peace of mind knowing that if you need money your credit union is never far away with shared branching, ATM access, and online banking. So while you are busy planning and having fun on your holiday weekend you know your money is safe, secure and your fingertips.

-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League