National Saving Challenge Deposits Exceed $4.62 Million

MADISON, Wis. – Young credit union members proved that they have saving power-kids deposited more than $4.62 million into their saving accounts as part of CUNA’s Savings Challenge. This year’s 280 participating credit unions reported $4,620,678.20 in deposits from 35,882 young members, surpassing both of the anticipated goals for 2005 – $2,501,711.17 and 32,679, respectively. Credit unions also welcomed some 4,543 new member accounts, which was slightly under the set goal of 5,628. This year’s results were more than triple last year’s deposits of $1.39 million. “The growth of the program is clearly the result of the enthusiastic and dedicated staff at these credit unions,” said Joanne Sepich, CUNA Youth Week coordinator. “They stepped beyond their traditional roles to create fun and imaginative ways to attract youth to their branches.” Young savers also entered a drawing sponsored by CUNA for a $100 prize. The winners and their 10 credit unions are as follows: * Glenn, age 17 – Aberdeen Proving Ground FCU, Aberdeen, Md.; * Gabrielle, age 6 – Canton Police and Firemen’s CU Inc., Canton, Ohio; * Eric, age 5 – Central Indiana School Employees FCU, Indianapolis; * Bobbi Jo, age 10 – Eastern New York FCU, Napanoch, N.Y.; * Cesar, age 7 – Erie Community CU, Erie, Pa.; * Andrew, age 15 – Hawaii Community FCU, Kealakekua, Hawaii; * Dalton, age 7 – Roanoke Valley FCU, Roanoke, Va.; * John, age 11 – STAR Community CU, Chico, Calif.; * Alicia, age 14 – United CU, Mexico, Mo.; and * William, age 3 – Wesley Health Systems FCU, Hattiesburg, Miss. Next year’s National Credit Union Youth Week is slated for April 23-29, 2006.