United Credit Union unveils new name
Vicinity Credit Union vows to be community champions
CHICAGO, IL (September 9, 2024) — Vicinity Credit Union, with a rich history of more than 90 years in service to the community, announced its new name, formerly United Credit Union. The rebranding is a better reflection of its mission and deep-rooted connections within neighborhoods in Cook County, Illinois.
“Vicinity represents our commitment to being at the heart of our community, close to our members, and integral to their daily lives,” said CEO Mario Aguirre. “While our name has changed, our dedication to personal relationships and community engagement remains steadfast. This evolution marks a significant milestone in our journey, emphasizing our roots as a teachers’ credit union and our expansion to serve a broader community.”
Vicinity Credit Union was founded inside a high school in 1930 by 15 teachers. What was then known as Union Teachers Credit Union became United Credit Union in 1986 when the credit union earned a community charter.
The new name, Vicinity Credit Union, reflects the closeness and familiarity that Vicinity aims to embody, reinforcing the credit union’s role as a community champion. The credit union is all about being engaged, tenacious, and resourceful – always ready to empower members to find success financially.
“In an era where digital transactions often replace personal interactions, we choose to remain human-centric,” Aguirre added. “Our team are more than just staff; they are our ambassadors in the community, deeply engaged in local events and initiatives that impact our members’ lives.”
One could say that there’s no better community champion than Vicinity Credit Union. And you’d be right. Vicinity Credit Union takes care of the undeserved banking community in Cook County, IL. Over the past five years, Vicinity Credit Union has grown 57.52% to more than $293 million in total assets. Membership is fast approaching 20,000. The credit union prides itself on defending the right for everyone to have access to the financial services they need.
On October 3, 2024, Vicinity Credit Union will enhance its digital services through a banking system upgrade. This upgrade will introduce significant improvements to technology and security. Meanwhile, construction continues at the Pulaski Branch. When the renovated lobby reopens, it will be a state-of-the-art space reflecting the credit union’s new vision, mission, and brand.
“Our new core system will empower our members with better tools and resources, making banking with us easier and more accessible than ever,” Mario Aguirre said. “This change is crucial for us to continue to provide the exceptional service our members have come to expect, while also paving the way for future growth and innovation.”
About Vicinity Credit Union
Vicinity Credit Union is a CDFI-certified credit union headquartered in Chicago, IL. It is also designated as a Minority Depository Institution and Low Income Designated. Every day, Vicinity Credit Union serves residents of Cook County, IL, like the neighbors they are with warmth, familiarity and dedication. Its vision is to welcome and serve its local communities, providing and defending access to financial services that improve the lives of its members. For more information, visit vicinitycreditunion.com.
