How AmeriChoice Gives Back to the Harrisburg, PA Region
Part of AmeriChoice FCU’s vision is to create a stronger community through a more community-driven financial institution. We strive to give back through our charitable work, community partnerships, and low-cost products. Many credit unions in Harrisburg, PA and the surrounding region are also focusing on community-oriented banking as an alternative to traditional banks. Discover the benefits of membership at community credit unions like AmeriChoice by learning how we specifically aim to give back.
Free Resources
Financial literacy courses
We believe that it’s never too late or too early to learn how to manage your money. Our community initiatives include teaching local residents about budgeting, credit, lending, and more. We have visited elementary schools, high schools, colleges, and even senior living communities with these lessons. Plus, every workshop is free!
Student branches
It can be tough to get teenagers excited about anything. But it’s important for them to understand money management, even if they aren’t passionate about it. One way we encourage teenagers to stash their cash is by opening small credit union branches inside their high schools. We currently operate two student branches that are available to these teenagers to use during the school day. Even if they don’t have a car, they can visit the credit union to make deposits and withdraw lunch and fun money.
Local partnerships
One way we serve the greater Harrisburg, PA region is through creating partnerships with local businesses that directly benefit our members. These partnerships include discounts on products and services like insurance and health care.
Community Events
Our events are open to the entire community, not just our members. Holding events are a great way to give back and help people learn the differences between credit unions and banks. Here are just a few of the regular events we hold annually.
Shred Day
A couple times a year, we’ll bring in a shredding truck to one of our branches. Instead of just throwing away sensitive paperwork, you can bring it to one of these events to have it shredded and disposed of privately.
Family Fun Extravaganza
Once a year, our main branch throws a summer bash meant for families. Free food and fun is supplied for the entire family, as well discounts on our most popular products and services.
Photos with Santa
You don’t have to wait in line at the mall and pay for expensive pictures. We make it our mission every holiday season to bring joy to our smallest community members. Santa visits our main branch with cookies and crafts, and of course free pictures with all.
Products & Services
It is vital for members of the community to have access to the products and services they need for continual financial health. As a credit union, we already have basic benefits like lower interest rates on loans, free checking accounts, and fewer fees. But we also go out of our way to create products that can specifically help underserved members of our community gain upward mobility. Here are a few of those products.
Credit Boost auto loan
It is incredibly difficult to get approved for an auto loan if you have little to no credit history. To get approved for this loan, you simply have to show proof of employment –not an extensive credit history. It’s perfect for young adults between the ages of 21 and 25. We also include the added benefit of reducing the interest rate after twelve months of consecutive, on-time payments.
Home Savers program
The housing market is booming in the Harrisburg, PA region, and we’re helping first time homeowners enter that market. Our experts create a customized savings plan so that a down payment is within reach. Being a part of the Home Savers program also makes it an easy transition to apply for a mortgage through our credit union as well.
Personal financial analysis
Our community now has access to a FREE personal financial analysis from our experts. We take a look at your current financial picture and help develop a plan to restructure that debt, often capitalizing on a lower interest rate. The money you save can go directly into a specialized savings account to help you reach your unique goals. The analysis is not only free, but also honest. If none of our existing products or services will improve your financial health, we’ll let you know you’re in great shape.
Kids programs
Helping improve the entire community’s financial health starts with our youngest members. If we can teach great money habits early, they’ll have less credit and debt issues to face in the future. One way we reach these youngest community members is through our special kid accounts. The Dollar Dog Kids Club and My Choice Teen Club help children and teenagers learn vital financial information while their young. Both club accounts are free and come with added perks and rewards to appeal to their age range.
Discover Credit Union Benefits of Membership First-Hand
It’s easy to see why banking at a community-oriented financial institution is better than a national bank. But many are still reluctant to switch! We’ve made it easy with a FREE switch kit. We’ll show you how to open an account, switch all automatic services, and close your old accounts. Download the FREE switch kit now!