Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Safe ways to help the people of Colorado


Credit Unions were founded on the philosophy of people helping people; and they take that philosophy to heart.  In recent months Colorado has been hit with several tragedies, ranging from extensive wildfires to the most recent shooting. 

In wake of the recent shootings in Aurora, Colorado, you may be wondering how you can help.  A lot of sites have popped up where you can donate money; but before you hand over your credit card information do your research to make sure the site you are going through is legitimate.  During the recent wildfires the United Way set up a telephone bank that directed people to the right outlets.  Look for reputable charities such as the New Venture Fund or CrowdRise, a donation site set up by the Huffington Post.  Giving First is a website set up by the Community First Foundation in Colorado and allows you to search through various reputable nonprofits that you can choose from. 

The Colorado wildfires have not been forgotten, and the Maine Credit Union League has teamed up with National Credit Union Association to activate its online disaster relief system.  This system is called CUAid, and helps to raise funds for the hundreds of victims of the Colorado wildfires.  100% of the money donated through CUAid goes directly to helping those affected by the wildfires; through CUAid over $25,000 was raised in the first week. 

Monday, July 16, 2012

Summer in Maine is Fun, Festive and Cost Effective!


Summer in Maine is in full swing, and so are the variety of festivals now underway! These events are a great way to check out a new town, food, or pastime, often for not a lot of money.

Here are just a few of current or future fun events!

Maine Potato Blossom Festival
Fort Fairfield
July 14 thru July 22

Central Maine Egg Festival
Pittsfield
July 17 thru July 21

Maine Celtic Celebration
Belfast
July 20 thru July 22

Yarmouth Clam Festival
Yarmouth
July 20 thru July 22

Old Hallowell Day
Hallowell
July 21

Pirate Festival - Fort Knox
Prospect
July 21

Maine Open Farm Day
Multiple Locations
July 22


Click here for a complete listing of events!

The more “rustic” the festival, the more likely it is that it will be a cash-only affair. Prevent potential disappointment by swinging by a Surcharge-free SURF ATM on your way!

Monday, July 2, 2012

Don’t Spend a Fortune on the Fourth!

A rare mid-week day-off is fast approaching with the 4th of July holiday this Wednesday! While the break provides an opportunity for rest, relaxation and fun, it also provides extra temptations to spend money. From sparklers for the kids, to your favorite barbeque foods, to gas for a road trip, there are many ways the holiday can wreak havoc on your budget.

Luckily, there are a variety of festivities occurring throughout the state that are festive, fun and free! From parades during the day, or fireworks at night, there are many ways you can enjoy the day without spending a cent. Click here for a list of 4th of July events happening in Maine.

If there are some extra funds in your gas budget for a road trip and you find yourself in need of cash, take advantage of the Surcharge-free SURF ATMs you’re sure to encounter on your way. With the majority of financial institutions closed for the holiday, these convenient ATMs will give you fee-free account access to keep your celebrations in full swing!