Credit Union Philosophy
The concept and philosophy behind the credit union is a co-operative field of membership: one member one vote, education, and affordable credit – all still integral parts of who we are. AmeriCU works to embody the credit union philosophy of “people helping people” and cooperative ownership. Everything we do is for our members and our communities. It’s why we have lower loan rates, higher deposit rates, and support local charities and not-for-profit organizations.
AmeriCU Then
Our credit union was chartered in 1950 as the Griffiss Employees Credit Union. We operated out of a desk in the Headquarters Building at Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, NY and serviced only civilian members. As we grew, our charter was amended to include military personnel and an expanded field of membership. We also increased the variety of products and services offered. We then became Griffiss-Oneida Federal Credit Union.
In 1985, Griffiss-Oneida Federal Credit Union merged with DeWitt First Federal Credit Union in Syracuse and our name was changed to Up State Federal Credit Union. In 1988, we merged with Fort Drum Federal Credit Union. Finally, in 2000 we transitioned from a federal charter to a New York State community chartered credit union and changed our name to AmeriCU Credit Union.
AmeriCU Now
We serve over 200,000 members with 24 locations throughout Central and Northern New York. At AmeriCU, we believe today more than ever, real connections matter. Whether it’s connecting you with the right people to help you succeed, solutions to achieve your goals or modern technology to make banking easier, AmeriCU has everything you need to connect you where you are and where you want to be. In person, online or anywhere in between, we’re here to create meaningful connections that make you feel like you belong.
Not a member? Not a problem – you’re eligible to open an account with as little as one penny!
You may also be interested in
In Our Community
AmeriCU values the importance of giving back to the communities where we live and work, it is part of who we are.
News, Events, and Education
Take a look at some exciting things happening at AmeriCU and in our local community!
Governance
Each year at our Annual Meeting, the membership of the credit union votes for members who will serve as Directors on our seven member, all-volunteer Board of Directors.
Questions? Click the ‘Let’s Connect’ button in the bottom right-hand corner to get started!
Latest From AmeriCU
News
Missed Our Debt Management Webinar? Watch the Recording On Demand
Our recent Debt Management Webinar provided practical tips for understanding debt, improving credit health, creating a budget, and exploring effective debt repayment strategies. Watch the recording to gain valuable insights and tools that can help you take control of your financial future.
Events
Orchard Adventure Day
Orchard Adventure Day is a family-friendly event hosted by GardenShare and Applewood Orchard that celebrates local food, healthy living, and community connection through activities, education, and outdoor fun.
Education
Creating a Budget for Back-to-School Shopping
This course teaches the fundamentals of creating and managing a budget so you can better understand your income, expenses, and spending habits. By applying these budgeting strategies to back-to-school shopping, you can maximize your money and stay on track with your financial goals.