ST LOUIS, Mo. — Vantage Credit Union is hoping its new “Save Green, Get Green” campaign will not only help members stock away more in their savings accounts but also improve the environment.

The $500 million credit union kicked off its year-long campaign today with the winner to receive a 2008 Toyota Prius Hybrid. The way it works is a person must open a Special Savings account with Vantage with a minimum of $25 per month automatic deposit. Existing members with the account must increase their monthly deposit by a minimum of $10. Those interested can also enter without opening an account by requesting an entry form.

In addition to the car giveaway, the public will have opportunities during the year to find the Prius around town and win gas cards or cash. The Prius seemed the ideal choice as the credit union “watched gas prices soar in recent months.”

“Our country has seen negative savings trends over the past year. That coupled with current worries about the economy and the rising cost of living makes it even more important for us to encourage people to save money,” said Kathy Palmer, vice president of marketing at Vantage.

The Prius will be awarded in a drawing to take place on Feb. 21, 2009.