Thursday, January 26, 2012

With Credit Unions, it’s Always a Team Effort!


On Sunday, January 29, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., a record number of more than 250 players and nearly 50 teams will take to the court to help swish-out childhood cancer at the 18th Annual Dr. Noel Paradise Memorial Swish-Out Childhood Cancer Challenge. Coordinated by Maine’s credit unions, this is a 3-on-3, co-ed tournament of adults with the majority of teams representing area businesses. For the second year, the event features a Junior Swish-Out tournament, consisting of nearly 50 middle school students (grades 6-8). Additionally, there are two divisions for the Swish-Out Tournament with a 'Just For Fun' Division and an Elite Division that is by invitation only.

This event sees support from credit unions throughout the state, whether through a sponsorship, donating an item to the event’s Silent Auction, or even lacing up their sneakers and organizing a team to play!

While the teams are sold out, attending the event is a great way to show support for this important cause. Come and enjoy the tournament and bid on items in the Silent Auction – including Red Sox tickets and an autographed Boston Celtics jersey! Admission is free! All money raised goes to the Maine Children's Cancer Program! Click here for more information.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Ending Hunger Night at the Red Claws – A Great Game for a Great Cause


Start the New Year with a slam dunk for Ending Hunger! The Maine Red Claws Basketball team will host Ending Hunger Night on January 27, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. For every $12 ticket sold, $2 will go to The Maine Credit Unions Campaign for Ending Hunger! Click here to purchase tickets online.

Click here for a special message from the Red Claws!

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Like! Maine Credit Unions Attend Special Facebook Event

On January 17, representatives from Maine’s Credit Unions joined business owners from throughout the state to attend Facebook’s “Small Business Boost” in Augusta. Maine’s U.S. Senator Olympia J. Snowe, who is Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, was the event’s special guest. In her remarks, she touched on the importance of Facebook for growing businesses today, describing it as “word of mouth – but on steroids.” She said that the continuing success of Maine’s small businesses is a priority for the state, as well as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), who also co-hosted the event. “Small businesses are the lifeblood of the state’s economy,” Snowe said. “In today’s marketplace, it’s all about engagement. It’s not an easy environment, but we’re going to help you get there.”

Attendees then heard from Facebook employees, who explained why and how businesses should use Facebook to build loyalty, connect with current customers and their friends, and keep the dialogue going by soliciting feedback and engaging the customer. Other tips included posting at least one time per week, using page ads and sponsored stories, giving fans a “sneak peek” at new products or events, or holding contests and other online events.

Click here to see what Maine Credit Unions are up to on Facebook!

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Sharing That Breaks Records! Over 1,219,000 Shared Branching Transactions in Maine in 2011


Shared Branching transactions in Maine soared in 2011, coming in at a total of 1,219,361 transactions. With over 150 credit union branches across Maine, the Shared Branch Network has more branches than any single bank in Maine, a fact that credit union members are clearly taking advantage of. And, with over 4,400 locations nationwide, it is a benefit of credit union membership that members can take with them, wherever they go!

“This high number of total transactions illustrates how Maine Credit Unions are meeting the consumer demand for convenience through this expanding network of Shared Branches,” John Murphy, President/CEO of the Maine Credit Union League, said. “Sharing the fact that we have more branches than any single Maine bank is an effective way to attract new members, especially Gen Y, a demographic that is important to the continued growth of credit unions.”

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Resolve to Save with Shared Branching


If “saving” is on your resolutions “to do” list for the New Year, “sharing” can bring you closer to your goals! Because many Maine Credit Unions are part of the Shared Branch network, using Shared Branching is a resolution that can save you both time and money. From emergencies to every day errands, the ability to use nearly 145 locations in Maine and more than 4,400 nation-wide just like your own credit union can make managing your money as simple as finding the nearest shared branch.

It is an easy, fee-free way for college students to stay connected to their account as they begin their spring semester, and lets snowbirds enjoy their warmer winter weather worry-free. Does the nearest branch close before you can make it in? Head to a Shared Branch that offers extended hours! Make deposits, withdrawals loan payments, and account transfers. Some even offer money orders, travelers checks and official checks. However you use it, Shared Branching is a convenient way to save time and money! Finding a branch couldn’t be easier!

To find a nearby Shared Branching location in Maine, click here! For a listing of the thousands of nationwide locations visit www.cuservicecenter.com, or call 1-800-919-CUSC (2872). Or, go mobile with a free iPhone app, called Find Branch, which maps out the nearest location, providing hours, directions and a phone number. For more information, visit iTunes, or your iPhone's App Store.

D. Dionne
Maine Credit Union League