FEDFCU's ATM service a blessing to members

ORLANDO, Fla.-One of the state's smallest credit unions is offering its members one of the biggest financial conveniences. The $3.5 million Florida Episcopal Dioceses Federal Credit Union has launched ATM services to its 1,100 members. The inaugural card was presented to The Rt. Rev. John W. Howe, bishop of the Episcopal Dioceses of Central Florida in the month of April. "Our new ATM service and our Web-based member communications exemplify our dedication to making banking convenient as well as user friendly," said Lavelle Basden president of FEDFCU. FEDFCU's intimate staff of three is in a rare position to know each member by name. Such personal member relationships drove the credit union to providing ATM cards. "When you are this small and close knit it's a challenge to encourage growth. The way to do that is by staying competitive," said Marketing Consultant Sue France. Staying competitive means having ATM access. The ATM service will allow members to check balances, make withdrawals and deposits, and transfer funds between accounts. So far approximately 40-50 cards have been issued. The card will be accepted at ATMs on any of the following networks: Member Access; The Exchange; American Express; and Credit Union 24. Credit Union 24 offers members CU HERE, a voluntary surcharge free program, so members pay no surcharges at Credit Union 24 ATMs. To raise awareness of the faith-based credit union, France began a pilot program promoting FEDFCU at her church on Sunday mornings. In addition to personal testimonials from current members, France said that for every $5 membership fee the credit union donates $5 to a Honduran medical/dental mission and a veterinary mission. "It is important for me to show people that our credit union's uniqueness is in it being an extension of the Episcopalian ministry," said France. So despite its size and not having an ATM located at the branch, FEDFCU still delivers. -mbourjolly@cutimes.com