Community First Credit Union and Vocality Community Credit Union announce intent to merge
Combined entity will provide members with a seamless digital experience, an expanded branch network, extended service hours, and greater access to premier financial products and services in their local communities.
SANTA ROSA, CA, GARBERVILLE, CA (November 6, 2024) — Community First Credit Union (CFCU) and Vocality Community Credit Union (VCCU) are excited to announce their intent to merge, combining the strength of two respected credit unions to optimize operational efficiencies, maximize value for members, be the employer of choice for its employees, and enhance community impact. Pending approval from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), and VCCU’s membership, the combined $965 million cooperative is projected to serve over 70,000 members through a network of 12 branches. The merger, expected to be completed in 2025, has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors and leadership teams of both CFCU and VCCU.
Following the anticipated merger approval, CFCU and VCCU will continue to operate independently until the completion of the system integration process. The newly combined organization will operate under the Community First Credit Union charter and name. Scott Johnson, President & CEO of Community First, will continue as the combined credit union’s President & CEO. Pat Neighbors, President & CEO of VCCU, will serve as Chief Strategy Officer of the combined credit union.
“With this merger, we’re bringing together our strengths to build a more robust financial partner for our members and local communities,” said Scott Johnson, CEO of Community First Credit Union. “Our shared vision is to provide an exceptional digital banking experience, greater convenience and the innovative products and services our members expect. This merger is all about investing in our members’ futures, ensuring that we’re positioned to meet their needs today and tomorrow.”
Pat Neighbors, CEO of Vocality Community Credit Union, echoed the excitement, saying, “This collaboration with Community First Credit Union presents an incredible opportunity to expand the financial possibilities for our members. Together, we’re combining decades of expertise and a mutual commitment to delivering the highest standards of service, access, and financial support. We’re thrilled to come together to create something exceptional for our members, employees, and local communities.”
For more information on the proposed merger, visit comfirstcu.com and vocalityccu.org.
About Community First Credit Union (CA)
Community First Credit Union (CFCU) is a not-for-profit financial cooperative founded by local teachers in 1959. It now serves more than 60,000 local member-owners throughout the North Bay of California in Sonoma, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, and Napa counties. CFCU is $819 million in assets and has provided over $4 billion in local home and car loans since its inception. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender. Visit comfirstcu.com for more information.
About Vocality Community Credit Union
Vocality Community Credit Union was founded in 1980 by residents of Humboldt County that wanted more personal, inclusive, and community-focused financial services than traditional banks offered. That visionary spirit has never waned; our culture of caring and personalized service has become synonymous with who we are. Being so deeply embedded in the community, we understand the unique needs of people in this part of California. Through the years VCCU expanded to serve over 9000 members from 5 counties in Northern California including Humboldt, Trinity, Mendocino, Lake, and Sonoma Counties.
