ROME, NY – OCTOBER 09, 2025: AmeriCU Credit Union is celebrating 75 years of serving members and communities across New York State. To mark this milestone, AmeriCU invites members to join the celebration on Thursday, October 16, when the credit union will also be recognizing International Credit Union Day, an annual event to commemorate the credit union movement’s impact and achievements.

AmeriCU Financial Centers will be decorated for the occasion and offer special treats from local businesses and goodie bags filled with surprises. Members unable to visit in person can join the festivities online and be entered into a birthday drawing for special surprises.

Since opening its doors in 1950, AmeriCU has grown from a small credit union into one of the region’s most trusted financial institutions. From its early days at Griffiss Air Force Base to today, it’s been a journey of innovation, expansion, and service to members.

1950s-1970s: Laying the Foundation

AmeriCU Credit Union’s journey began in 1950 when a group of employees started the Griffiss Employees Credit Union at Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, NY. Originally chartered to serve only civilian members, it quickly expanded to include military personnel. By the late 1970s, the credit union introduced key products such as the Share Draft Checking Program in 1977 and a Mortgage Program in 1980.

1980s-2000s: Expansion Through Mergers, Rebranding, and Innovation

The 1980s were a period of rapid growth as the credit union expanded its reach through mergers and collaboration. In 1985, the credit union merged with DeWitt First Federal Credit Union, and three years later, in 1988, it merged with Fort Drum Federal Credit Union, further strengthening its connection to military personnel and their families.

The millennium brought a major transformation. In 2000, the credit union transitioned from federal charter to state charter, allowing them to serve more members across the state. With the charter conversion came the name AmeriCU Credit Union. In 2009, just two years after the launch of the first iPhone, AmeriCU introduced Go Mobile, making banking more accessible through mobile devices.

2010s-2020s: National Recognition and Digital Transformation

The credit union’s dedication to excellence was recognized in 2016, when AmeriCU was voted one of the Best Companies to Work For; this was followed by multiple awards.

The 2020s were a time of rapid change. By 2021, AmeriCU had surpassed 150,000 members and further improved its business banking services. The credit union also joined the CO-OP ATM network, giving members surcharge-free access to over 30,000 ATMs nationwide.

In 2023, AmeriCU Credit Union announced its largest expansion yet, adding 15 additional counties across the North Country and Western and Southern Tiers, bringing its total reach to 24 counties across New York State.

Looking Ahead: Join the Celebration!

As we look ahead, AmeriCU Credit Union remains committed to progress, innovation, and making a lasting impact on the lives of our members. We will embrace new technologies to provide smarter financial solutions. We will continue to make banking even more convenient and accessible, whether it is online, in person, or anywhere in between.

And, as we always have, we will continue to find new ways to give back – supporting meaningful initiatives that strengthen our communities and change lives for the better.

To learn more about AmeriCU Credit Union or to become a member, please visit www.americu.org.

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About AmeriCU Credit Union

As a credit union, AmeriCU is a not-for-profit financial institution owned by our members. Serving 24 counties in New York and beyond, AmeriCU provides you with all the products and services you need – often with low or no fees, and better rates. Celebrating its 75^th anniversary, AmeriCU has grown to serve more than 170,000 members, 21 financial centers, and $2.8 billion in assets, while remaining dedicated to empowering members and supporting communities. AmeriCU is headquartered in Rome, New York, and is among the State’s largest, full-service financial cooperatives. For more information, visit www.AmeriCU.org. Equal Housing Lender – Federally Insured by NCUA – Membership Eligibility Required.

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