INDIANAPOLIS -There is now a single shared branching cooperative in Indiana – Credit Union Centers of Indiana, LLC (CUCI). The group is the result of the merger between CUCI and Credit Union Centers of Northwest Indiana, Inc., which was approved by boards of both cooperatives in late October 2002. "We are now one statewide organization, stronger than ever," said CUCI President/Teachers CU Senior Vice President Karol Griffin. "The two groups really had the same focus, as far as goals, and the merger is another way the cooperative effort works for the benefit of all." Ten years ago, Indiana credit unions first joined together to provide shared branching to their members and at one point had as many as four cooperatives here. With the merger, the CUCI board will expand to a total of 11 and an annual meeting, which includes election of officers, is scheduled for mid-February. CUCI 2003 plans include finding three new stand-alone locations and 12 new outlets throughout the state. Currently, 46 Hoosier credit unions participate in shared branching, giving access to nearly one million members statewide. Nationally there are 922 service centers and outlets across the country.