The NIH Federal Credit Union (NIHFCU) has been an NIH mainstay since 1940. Founded by 9 employees who pooled together $75, the credit union was born to help give their co-workers and families affordable choices for their money financial goals. Since then, the NIHFCU has grown to currently serve over 43,000 members with a wide range of affordable lending programs and modern banking solutions that save both time and money.
With conveniently located branches and ATMs on and off NIH campuses, a complete suite of 24/7 remote banking options, financial literacy tools and webinars, and other services to simplify the busy lives of its members, NIHFCU membership is open to the entire NIHFCU workforce (including contractors and fellow in Spain, France and Moscow) and their families.
This year, the National Institutes of Health Federal Credit Union (NIHFCU) marks 80 years of continuous operation. On January 11, 1940, when nine federal employees pooled $75 and began transacting business out of a shoebox, the NIHFCU was born. From a cramped 5’x6′ space at NIH (Bethesda, MD) to today’s advanced mobile banking solutions, the NIHFCU has enjoyed a fascinating history.
“The evolution of the NIHFCU from its humble beginnings is quite remarkable. Its ability to grow through the vast social, regulatory and economic changes over the decades is a tribute to all those who have touched the NIHFCU in some way,” said Rick Wieczorek, NIHFCU’s President & CEO. “This includes our volunteer Board and Committee members, dedicated employees, and of course, our incredibly loyal members who continue to provide us with the privilege of serving their financial needs.”
To help celebrate, the NIHFCU has a Celebrate 80 Years webpage where members can share their stories about how the credit union has made a difference in their lives or for their loved ones. The credit union will highlight some of the most unique stories throughout the celebratory year.
Steve Levin, NIHFCU’s VP of Marketing and Business Development states, “Our story search is a great way for our members to chronicle their experiences over past decades. With NIHFCU’s new Discover Banking with Heart brand position, the timing of our anniversary celebration is perfect, and we look forward to receiving and sharing the many genuine and powerful stories from our membership.”
In addition to the Celebrate 80 Years story search, the credit union will also mark their 80th anniversary by opening a new “branch of the future” in Silver Spring, expanding its community service and volunteerism engagements, and announcing a variety of member special opportunities throughout the course of the year.
The NIHFCU remains honored to serve all those dedicated to making the world a healthier place. In 2020, it celebrates not only its past but the promise of a bright future ahead.