5 New Year’s resolutions you can keep

Another year has come and gone and now it’s time to make your New Year’s resolutions. You know the ones: lose weight, quit smoking, reduce stress, volunteer more, and maybe the most important resolution, get a handle on your finances. Most people either try to tackle their resolutions and quit, or they forget about their New Year’s resolutions by February; and the biggest reason for this is because we set our goal too high or too broad. Here are five tips to help you control your finances in 2010.

1. Pay off one debt- Whether it is a credit card, car loan, or a student loan; choose one to pay off this year. Tackling one debt at a time will seem more manageable then trying to eliminate all your debt at once. And the satisfaction you will get from completely paying off that one thing might push you to eliminate one more, and even if it doesn’t, that is one less debt you have to pay off next year. Just make sure you don’t replace the debt you are paying off by creating another one.

2. Save something each paycheck- The hardest part of saving money is getting into the habit of it. Try taking as little as $10 from each paycheck and putting it into a savings account, odds are you won’t even miss it if you have the money automatically deducted from your account. It can be as simple as sacrificing one lunch or dinner out a week.

3. Pick one area of spending and control it- Don’t try and stop all your spending, just look at what you already spend money on and slowly eliminate one expense. Try keeping a log of your spending for two weeks, if you see something that you are spending money on that you don’t need to, ease yourself off it. For me it’s my morning coffee, I realized that I spend at least $15 a week on coffee every morning. If I switch from getting coffee every day to three times a week it will be easier to stop buying my coffee in the morning and instead bring some from home, saving around $750 a year. That is money I could use to pay off some of my loans.

4. Save for retirement- If you aren’t saving for retirement, you should start now, no matter your age. If you are eligible for a 401k, sign up to have a percentage deducted from your paycheck. Check to see if your company matches your contribution, and if your company doesn’t, open your own IRA and contribute what you can.

5. Learn something about finance- Take the time to learn one new thing about personal finance, one of the problems people have when they try and tackle their finances is feeling like they are in over their head. Look to your local credit union for help; see if they offer any workshops you can attend. Talk to someone at your credit union about starting a retirement plan, or developing a financial strategy for your small business. By the end of the year you will have enough knowledge to help you make financial decisions for your future.

-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

There’s more to consider when traveling this time of year

The holidays are here, and that means it is time for traveling and visiting family. Whether you are driving a few towns over, or flying across the country, there are a few things you should remember to do. Traveling during the holidays can be hectic, so it is important to keep important documents, such as your license and any debit or credit cards with you at all times as well as the number to your financial institution in case your cards are lost or stolen. If you plan on making large purchases out of state, you should let your credit union know to expect out of state charges for the dates you will be there. Simple safety precautions, such as never leaving your bag or purse unattended, can keep your money and possessions safe while you are traveling this holiday season.

Should you need to access your account on your trip, many credit unions are a part of the Shared Branching network, where you can access nearly 4,000 credit union branches nationwide, with more than 120 locations in Maine. You just need your license, your home credit union name and your account number. You can easily access your account, make deposits, withdrawals, and even make a loan payment when you are away from your home credit union.

-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

Maine credit unions do more to raise money for children in need

With the snow on the ground, it finally feels like winter. And with winter, comes winter sports -- one of those being basketball. This year on January 31st Maine credit unions will be hosting the 16th Annual Swish-Out Childhood Cancer Challenge. This is a 3-on-3 co-ed basketball tournament to raise money for the Maine’s Children’s Cancer Program held on the University of Southern Maine’s Gorham campus. While this has been a challenging economy, Maine credit unions, local business, families and community groups are stepping up to raise money for those children in Maine that are struggling against their illness. Last year more than $25,000 was raised bringing the total amount raised for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program to more than $148,000 since the tournament’s inception. All money raised through the event, from sponsorships to team entry fees stays right here in Maine to aid children with cancer and their families. You can contact me at jhodgkin@mainecul.org , if you are interested in playing, volunteering your time, becoming a sponsor or donating an item for our silent auction during the tournament.

-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

Credit Unions Help Keep Kids Financially Fit

This past week credit unions were mentioned in a prime-time feature regarding youth financial education. The feature which aired on WGME News 13 and News 13 on FOX included Atlantic Regional FCU’s President/CEO Roger Sirois and his two children. They were highlighted at an area toy store talking about finances, budgets and money management and included ways parents can teach their children while shopping which included: teach your kids to shop sales, understand return policies and then talk about your shopping experience by asking your child what they learned about spending and saving. The Maine Credit Union League worked with WGME to develop the story as a way to build awareness about the many ways that parents can teach their children about personal finance during everyday activities. Maine credit unions believe that teaching financial literacy at an early age is fundamental to raising financial fit children, for more information on how you can teach your child about money visit Financial Education and Resource link on the Maine Credit Union League site at www.mainecul.org

-Jess H. Maine Credit Union League

Maine Credit Unions Offer More for You with their Credit Cards

While big credit card issuers are raising their fees and changing rules in an attempt to increase their profit before the Credit Card act takes effect, credit unions are still able to offer you the same low interest rates and minimal to no fees. A study by Pew Charitable Trusts reviewed the 12 largest banks and credit unions that issued cards and found that credit unions offer more consumer friendly terms, with the median interest rates on a credit union card being 20% lower than banks.

At Maine credit unions, their main goal is to help you manage your finances with ease. And with holiday shopping and credit cards on your mind in December, and the credit card bills in January; you know that as a credit union member you can use your credit card without fear of unreasonable rate increases. Credit unions have remained stable despite the economic hardship, yet another reason why many people in Maine are turning to their local credit unions to manage their money, and their credit cards.

-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

There’s More in Maine this Holiday Season

The holiday season is approaching, and despite the lack of snow, it is already December. And while I usually have most of my shopping and decorating well underway, this year I haven’t found the time yet. With December already here, I am feeling the pressure to finish my shopping before holiday parties start. So like many people in Maine, I will spend the next few weekends searching the malls for and making lists so I won’t forget the dog or that friend who lives in Seattle. As a credit union member, you won’t have to add worrying about accessing your money while you shop. I don’t have to think about where I can make a deposit or withdrawal while preparing for the holidays since most Maine credit unions have Shared Branching and are part of the SURF network.

-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

In Maine, there’s always more reasons to give thanks

Here in Maine, we have much to be thankful for. Right now, we are thankful for the mild weather that has chosen to stick around, despite the fact that Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching. This is something truly rare, as I have many memories of putting on snow boots and ski pants to go next door to my grandmother’s house for Thanksgiving dinner. While (fingers crossed) I will not have to bundle up to make the journey to her house next week, I will have to travel much farther than next door, and make the five hour trip to Aroostook County. However, like for many in Maine, the importance of family and tradition far outweighs any distance. And thankfully, my credit union is part of the surcharge-free ATM network, SURF, so should I need access to cash at a moment’s notice, whether to buy a dog treats to pacify my dog in the back seat, or to pick up a forgotten ingredient, I know that I will be covered and my hassle-free trip and holiday will be worth many thanks.

-Diana D., Maine Credit Union League

There’s more ways to save for the holidays with Maine Credit Unions

Why start the New Year off with a pile of credit card bills left over from the holiday season? Most credit unions offer a Holiday Club account that allows you to plan for your purchases by depositing a little each week. You typically have these accounts for a year and the funds are transferred to your checking or savings account in the fall, just in time for holiday shopping.

Why spend more on the presents you are purchasing, when you could buy more presents with the interest your holiday account will earn. This way, when the holiday season rolls around you won’t have to worry about starting the New Year with credit card bills or dipping into other savings accounts. So go ahead, make your holidays a little brighter and reduce your stress by planning ahead for next year.


-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

Maine Credit Unions do More to Help You Enjoy the Outdoors

On a recent episode of “Wildfire,” a Maine-based talk show that covers environmental and sportsman’s issues, the ways that Maine credit unions support outdoor recreation were featured. Credit unions are able to help you enjoy the outdoors by providing you with small loans that can be used to help you purchase snowmobiles, ATVs and other sporting equipment. Some loans for outdoor activities can be around or below $2,000 -- a loan amount that can be difficult to obtain, but not at a credit union.

So if you want to make the most of those long winter months but aren’t sure how you can afford it, look into loans from your local credit union. This can allow you to enjoy the outdoors without breaking your budget.

-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

Colder Weather Doesn’t Mean Leaving Convenience Behind

The weather is getting colder, and that means we have to lose the carefree convenient feel of summer. Winter brings fewer daylight hours for our day to day tasks, as a credit union member you don’t have to worry about it. They allow you the flexibility you may need as the temperature drops.

Even though you might have to scrape frost off your windshield in the morning; and it gets dark earlier, we still have the convenience of our credit unions. From using shared branching, to making purchases with your debit card instead of writing checks, we are able to make the most of the shorter days approaching.

Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

Text and e-mail alerts bring you more information, anytime!

Any child who has ever waited by the TV or radio early on a snowy morning hoping for their school to be named in a list of cancellations knows that some information is too important to have to wait for! Now, there is no reason to risk missing the opportunity to sleep in! To bring information on school closings and delays, severe and emergency weather, breaking news, contests and coupons, and Amber Alerts right to your email or cell phone, Maine’s Credit Unions are sponsoring text/email alerts from WCSH and WLBZ. With this service, viewers choose only the content that they want to receive via text messaging or email!

This is perfect for parents who need to know if their child is getting let out from school early, or for commuters to find out if a storm is headed their way before they hit the road. And, for the young (and young at heart) hoping for a snow day, it ensures they won’t miss a minute of the fun!

You can sign up to receive these alerts at www.wcsh6.com, or www.wlbz2.com.

-Diana D., Maine Credit Union League

Credit Unions Celebrate “The More” During Special Week

Credit unions are celebrating with their members this week. The third week of October is International Credit Union Week. This week members across the world are recognizing the benefits that credit unions have brought to over 177 million members in 96 countries. The theme of this year’s week is ‘Your Money, Your Choice’ and celebrates the credit union differences and why people like you decided to become a member. So go enjoy being a credit union member, after all it’s your money, and your choice.

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

Social Media Means More Communication with Your Credit Union

It seems like everybody is using Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites today, with the average user on Facebook 4.5 hours a week. You may see your credit union has a Facebook page and wonder why they would want to be on a social networking site. And the truth is, many credit unions are using Facebook and Twitter as way to talk with you, not to you. So whether you are online or in line, you can be informed about what’s happening at your credit union.

These sites allow credit unions to keep you updated on changes within the credit union. For example, one credit union used Facebook to let its members know about construction they were doing. Another credit union used Facebook to answer a question a member had about a loan.

Your credit union understands that you’re busy, and you might not have to time ask about a new product while you are depositing a check. If they are using social media, you might be able to ask a question without having to enter your credit union! Your credit union might have updates on Facebook or Twitter about a new home loan they offer, a new holiday savings program, or community activities such as the Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger. So, even if you don’t get the chance to check Facebook till after the kids are in bed, you can stay informed about what your credit union can offer you.

-Jess H., Maine Credit Union League

If You Want Great Service, be a Credit Union Member

Have you ever noticed how having a bad experience in a store can really affect if you will shop there again? We’ve all been in stores where we had bad service, whether the products weren’t what you wanted, or the customer service was unsatisfactory. When you think back on that place, you will remember the type of service you received there, and if the memory is unpleasant, then returning is the last thing you want to do. On the other side, if you receive excellent service at a place, then you are more likely to return and to tell you friends and family to go there.

With your local credit union, you don’t have to worry about receiving unpleasant service. Maine credit union employees strive to make sure your visit is personal and enjoyable; you will be treated like the credit union owner that you are. Unlike a large national financial institution, you are part of your credit union because you are part of that specific community.

As a member of a credit union, quality service is important to you, and employees take the time to ensure that all your needs are met. Your credit union is local, where you can receive the personal attention that you deserve. Credit union employees are also members like you, so they ensure that you are treated like a person, not just a number in the computer.

Why spend more when shopping this summer, with Maine Credit Unions you don’t have to.

When shopping in Maine today, there are two major payment options, paper or plastic. Today many people choose to use plastic in the forms of debit or credit cards, instead of choosing to carry cash or writing checks. And whether you are shopping at the Maine Mall or in a small shop in your hometown card seem to be accepted everywhere. But what do you do when a store doesn’t accept cards? As a credit union member, you don’t have to worry.
Recently I was in a store that only accepted cash, and like most people I rely on my debit card, so I was forced to go look for an ATM. As a credit union member finding an ATM is easy. Most credit unions in Maine are a part of the SurF network, where as a member you won’t be charged a surcharge fee for using another credit union’s ATM. That can save you from having to pay nearly $3 in surcharge fees every time you want to withdraw money from an ATM or use a Shared Branching location.
After all credit unions don’t think you should have to pay money to access your money. And while most stores accept cards, it’s good to know that whether you are buying a new sundress for the beach, or investing in new golf clubs, your Maine Credit Unions are here to help you save your money.

Heading to school? Stop at your local credit union on the way for more

While is seems like the summer weather has just begun, September is almost here, and that means time to go back to school. And whether you have a son or daughter just starting as a freshman, or returning for their senior year, there’s sure to be a lot on your mind and their mind. And between shopping for new bedding and packing clothes, thinking about all of the expenses school brings often gets pushed aside.

There are the basic expenses, tuition, books, and food, but what about other expenses, like a car? Most schools charge for a parking permit, add that into the cost of gas and insurance, it can add up. Add in money for food and spending money, and it is easy to see how many students leave school with credit card debt in addition to their student loans. And parents feeling overwhelmed.

Many college students are managing their own accounts for the first time, and a big part of that is learning how to budget. Starting and maintaining a budget can be difficult. Being a member of a credit union can help students start out on the right track. Because credit unions are member-owned, they charge fewer and lower fees, have lower minimum balance requirements, and offer better rates than banks. And what could be more convenient than a financial institution that offers so many conveniences, like surcharge free ATM’s and Shared Branching.

There's more at Maine Festivals

Maine is full of events to go to during the summers, and whether you are watching the Sea Dogs play, or listening to music at the Blue Grass Festival, your credit union will be there. Look for us throughout the state this summer sponsoring some of your favorite summer events.

Maine Credit Unions are sponsoring the Potato Blossom Festival in Fort Fairfield from July 11th to the 19th, the Blue Grass Festival in the County July 23rd to the 25th, the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland July 29th to August 2nd, and the American Folk Festival in Bangor August 28th to the 30th. You can also see us on the Jumbotron during the Sea Dogs 7th Inning Stretch, and during WAGM’s Potato Pickers Special through the months of September and October. We hope to see you there!

Let a Rainy Day Account from Maine Credit Unions Help You Save Money for the Next Rainy Day

While you can’t make the rain go away, you can be more prepared for the unexpected. Whether it’s a month of rainy weather, an accident or another financial burden, having a rainy day fund can make getting through it easier. Many credit unions offer accounts that help you save money in case of an emergency, or even just a rainy day. These accounts can be specific such as the Christmas Club to help you save for the holidays or just an account designed for emergencies. With Maine credit unions you are always prepared.

When creating these emergency savings accounts, it is best to keep at least two months’ pay saved up. Despite the economy, this can be easier than you think. It can be as simple as having a portion of your paycheck direct deposited into the account, or if you’ve paid off a car loan, a mortgage or an equity loan, keep right on making that monthly payment straight to your rainy day savings account. Having an emergency account with your credit union is a way of preparing for your future. So whether you use the money to make ends meet if you lose your job or if you use some extra savings to take the family to the aquarium on a rainy day; you know that like your credit union, your rainy day fund is there when you need it most.

Maine vacations are filled with fun, without emptying your wallet

School is out and summer is here, now it’s time to relax and take a vacation! But with rising gas prices and today’s economy, taking a trip can be hard on your wallet. So why go broke taking a vacation out of state? People travel from all across the country to vacation in Maine! Why spend your summer going somewhere else when there are plenty of things to do right here! Maine offers everything from sailing in Bar Harbor to shopping in Portland and Kittery, with everything in between. So whether your ideal vacation is shopping, laying on the beach, white water rafting or visiting amusement parks Maine has something for everyone without ruining your budget.

Maine’s credit unions offer over 200 ATMs as part of the SurF network, and many are part of the Shared Branch Network. So, you know that you will never have to pay a four dollar surcharge fee to use an ATM, or have to wait till you get home to access your account. With access to branches and ATMs throughout the state you know that whether you’re antiquing in Belfast, waterskiing in Naples, hiking in Acadia National Park or visiting the Wildlife Park in Gray, there’s always a credit union there to help you save your money. So why go elsewhere? After all, Maine is Vacationland.

A lot goes into having your first job, Maine credit unions are here to help.

Starting your first job is equal parts daunting and exhilarating; you think about everything from what you have to wear, to what time you need to wake up in the morning. There are some things that you don’t always think about, though. Things like needing an account in case your job requires direct deposit, or making sure you have enough money saved if you happen to have car trouble.

Then there are numerous problems that can occur. What if you need to make it to the bank one day, but it closes before you can get there, or your bank is charging you for several fees? That’s when being a member of a credit union becomes helpful. You will have an account already set up for direct deposits, and with many credit unions a member of SURF and Shared Branching, you have access to over 200 ATMs and over 100 credit union locations throughout the state. And because credit unions tend to have lower interest rates, getting a car loan is easy, ensuring that you always have transportation. The transition from school to your first job is exciting, and being a credit union member helps make the transition a smooth one.

Recent college grad finds that Maine credit unions offer more when entering the ‘real world’

After four long years of staying up drinking coffee and RedBull like it’s your job to finish those last minute term papers, a new group of college graduates are released from the safe confines of college campuses to the real world. Just when you thought life would get easier we are faced with the economic problems of the world today. From the struggle of finding a job, to having to move back in with your parents, money is a big issue. From where to get it, to how to save it; college graduates just know that they want it, now.

Looking back, I realize that college would have been a lot easier if I had used a credit union that had Shared Branching, allowing me to access more than 200 ATMs throughout the state, instead of my small local bank that was three hours away nine months of the year. But like many college students I didn’t even know there was a difference between a credit union and a bank. I hadn’t considered what would happen after graduation, or how I was going to manage my money; I was more concerned about passing my classes, hanging out with friends and being obsessed with checking Facebook every minute of the day.

Now that I am done with school, reality has set in. With the price of apartment rentals and car insurance weighing on my mind, I’m wondering how I will start to pay off my school loans in a few months, in addition to rent, food, and other daily expenses. This has helped me to appreciate the difference being a CU member makes. Credit Unions have lower fees and lower interest rates on loans than most banks; with loan types ranging from personal to credit card, this makes affording the things I need easier. Maine credit unions are owned and organized by its members, not shareholders making money off of my account.

When taking that leap into home ownership, Maine credit unions are financial partners you can trust

The “firsts” in life are usually exciting, but can also be very scary. This is certainly true when buying your first home. The challenges you encounter along the way can range from amusing (bathrooms in bold shades of pink and avocado green) to disheartening (having yet another offer declined by a seller). These challenges, combined with the onslaught of new information one must absorb while trying to balance their desire for the home they always dreamed of with the need not to get in over their head, can make the experience one that requires a great deal of patience and more importantly, help! While your realtor is your partner in finding the house that is meant to be your home, it is also important to have a partner in ensuring that this is a house you can afford.

This is where credit unions can help. While many fondly think of credit unions as a great place for that first car loan, they also make wonderful partners in helping new homebuyers achieve their dreams of home ownership. Credit unions are known for giving people a chance, and for good reason! Instead of shying away from offering mortgages, credit unions are taking the current climate as an opportunity to help members take advantage of the low mortgage rates the economy has to offer. Credit unions exist to serve their members and want to see you enjoy your investment, not have it be more than you can handle. So, they won’t try to get you into the champagne of homes if you are on a beer in a can budget. Buying a home is a big step, and one that no one should take alone. It’s nice to know that, in any economy, Maine credit unions can help you make it happen.

Maine Students More Prepared to Face the Real World Thanks to Financial Fitness Fairs

Anyone who has ever had that “Now what?” feeling after taking that first step in the real world following graduation from high school or college knows that those days are filled with many surprises. (Rent is how much? Wait- you have to pay for laundry?) Don’t you wish that someone had told you the whole story of the many expenses, challenges and sacrifices that come with the long awaited transition into adulthood? For many Maine high school students, this is a reality that is not merely explained to them, but one they can experience firsthand through the several Financial Fitness Fairs hosted by Maine’s credit unions each year.

The Financial Fitness Money Management Experience is a half-day event during which students receive a scenario packet of their life at age 22, which includes their occupations, income and credit history. From there, students map out their financial future from financing their housing to purchasing food and clothing. They also experience the consequences that come from having a high or low credit score, a great advantage compared to the many who only realize what a credit score is when they are declined for a loan! Not only does this dose of reality give students an incentive to start preparing for their future today, it also gives them a greater appreciation for the challenges their parents are faced with each day.

As a result of these events, there will be less of us lamenting, “If I only knew then what I know now,” in the years to come. And in today’s economy, more of us could benefit from this kind of practice run!

What’s More in Maine? Fee Free Credit Union Locations!

Even if you are not a sports fan, March can be maddening! Sometimes it seems that what’s really more in Maine is the winter! With unpredictable weather, the feeling that the season will never end, and the many tasks we all must complete each day, any additional stress or complication can feel unmanageable. For members of many Maine credit unions, additional stress will not come from being unable to find a financial institution when and where they need one, or worse, being hit with ever-increasing fees when they have to use a financial institution or ATM other than their own. That’s because if you are a credit union member, there is a good chance that your credit union is a member of the Shared Branching Network!

With Shared Branching, you can use other participating credit unions just as if it were your own! There are currently 95 locations throughout Maine! And there’s more! There are over 3,500 locations across the country, and even internationally! With Shared Branching, your membership and accounts remain at your own credit union, but you can access your accounts and conduct business with your credit union through any of the convenient locations! To find out if your credit union is part of the Shared Branching network, or to find a location near you, click on the Shared Branching section of www.mainecreditunions.org. Or, for a listing of the thousands of nationwide locations, visit www.cuservicecenter.com.

At a time when being able to access your money when and where you need it (without pesky fees) has never been so important, Shared Branching can really take the madness out of March!

From the field to your table, what’s more in Maine can be very delicious!

Sometimes, less really is more. This can certainly be said when it comes to food—or at least its cost. When you get the most from your food is not when you spend the most, at a fancy restaurant, but when you take the time to invest in a meal, and yourself, by cooking a meal at home. Maine has the resources to not only help you save money but support local businesses and farmers at the same time.

To take advantage of local foods during this the time of year when even a green blade of grass seems to be too much to hope for, look for a food co-op in your area. In the co-operative spirit, everyone is welcome, and these organizations make a point to stick to local producers--and you save money through buying in bulk. With many co-ops throughout the state, it is easy to find one near you. The links below are a good place to get started.

http://www.meliving.com/healthfoodstores/index.shtml

http://www.coopdirectory.org/directory.htm#Maine

While our spring and summers are short, the fruits of the seasons are plentiful. As spring approaches, prepare for the bounty ahead—clear out your freezer to make sure you can enjoy local produce all year. With the strawberry, raspberry and blueberry, cucumbers, corn and green beans of summer, to the pumpkins, squash and apples in the fall, the wide variety of Maine’s produce will keep you busy in your kitchen! At www.getrealgetmaine.com, you can search by the product you are looking for, or by your county or even town.

Just like when you use a Maine credit union, when you shop and eat locally, you are investing in your community while saving money! And, not only will local, seasonal food help support your community and save you money, food simply tastes better when you eat it when you are supposed to! What better reason to bring what’s more in Maine into your kitchen today!

What's More In Maine - CUs Help Build Sense Of Community On And Off The Court

In many communities across Maine, basketball is a part of the culture, history and identity! Not just for what happens on the court but also for what happens off the court. During the cold winter months, basketball games help provide a gathering place for communities to come together, put differences and challenges aside, and cheer and feel proud about where they live and the people who live in it.

In a scene that is duplicated across Maine, the fervor for basketball, especially at the high school level, is so strong that when the local teams play out of town, the saying goes, "The last one out of town turns out the lights." What is special for many communities is not the outpouring of support for teams when they win but for the comfort and reassurance they provide when they lose.

In addition to games that count, Maine credit unions also use the basketball court as a way to bring people together for a common cause. For 15 years, the Swish-Out Childhood Cancer Challenge, coordinated by Maine credit unions, has brought businesses, families and other groups together to help raise money for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program. This 3-on-3 event is Maine’s longest running, continuous charity event of its kind. Despite the state of the economy, this year’s event, held on Sunday, February 8, raised more than $25,000 for children with cancer and their families. In its history, the event has now raised more than $148,000 for this special cause.

For Maine credit unions, it is this kind of spirit and sense of community that we embrace. Maine credit unions are a place for thousands of consumers to come together to get help when times are tough not just during the good times.

As communities across Maine flock to Augusta, Bangor and Portland for the Annual "Rite of Winter" known as the High School Basketball Tournaments, Maine credit unions are again pleased to bring those games to those who can't make it to the game because of travel or other commitments. As one of eight exclusive supporters of the Maine Public Broadcasting Network's statewide coverage of 44 high school tournament games, Maine's credit unions are again demonstrating a unique commitment to the communities they serve.

By Saturday, February 28, all of the state champions will have been crowned and there will, no doubt, be celebrations in some communities and tears in others. Win or lose, though, communities will be a source of strength because that's what communities do - 'people helping people' for better or worse. Just like your local credit union...

Welcome to What's More in Maine: Giving more to help feed Maine's hungry

Welcome to the What's More in Maine Blog. Please return weekly to find posts that describe why Maine is a great place to live, work and play -- why there's more in our state! We will cover happenings, events and news that make a difference ... from what organizations do in their communities to the people and places that make Maine a great state. From time to time, we will touch on how credit unions make a difference in Maine because credit unions were founded on the principle of "Maine People Helping Maine People" and have played a large part in our state's history and continue now and in the future helping Mainers with their financial needs. We believe your comments add to our blog. Hopefully, you'll learn some new things about Maine too!


Nearly 20,000 of Maine kids are hungry ...

The statistics:

- More than 40% of Maine kids under the age of 12 show some evidence of hunger.

- An additional 64,087 children are at risk of hunger.

- 12% of Maine households, representing 165,000 people, experience food insecurity.

- Hunger and the risk of hunger are widespread among Maine’s low-income families with children.

- Several groups are found to be at greater risk of hunger in Maine; children, adults in low-income families, disabled persons, persons with special needs, the elderly, those living in rural regions and the inner cities of Maine’s largest urban places.

There is help, and an example of Mainers helping Mainers.
At the end of January, credit unions came together for "thawing" out hunger in Maine at the January Thaw to End Hunger Celebration Event. At this annual event, the Maine Credit Unions' Campaign for Ending Hunger announced that it had raised a record-setting $375,296.59 in 2008, an increase of nearly $10,000 over last year's record.

On hand to acknowledge this accomplishment and to present the distribution of funds was Maine's First Lady, Karen Baldacci. Mrs. Baldacci applauded credit unions for their efforts and assisted in the distribution of checks to representatives from credit unions from across the state. The checks, in turn, will be distributed by each credit union to their local area food pantries and hunger organizations. 100% of the funds raised go to help end hunger in Maine.

The 2008 Maine Credit Unions' Campaign for Ending Hunger not only had a record setting year but it formed new relationships with food pantries across the state. These enhanced efforts are extremely important, as food pantries are seeing a significant increase in requests during these difficult times. Since 1990, the Maine Credit Unions' Campaign for Ending Hunger has raised over $3.1 million to help end hunger in Maine.

Special thanks to Maine credit union members who helped raised donations to help end hunger -- so less children can go to bed with empty stomaches at night ... and are not another statistic.