What's Happening
Ignite Credit Union Announces Their Plan to Acquire Latvian Heritage Federal Credit Union
BATTLE CREEK, MI – Ignite Credit Union is thrilled to announce our plans to add Latvian Heritage Federal Credit Union (Latvian Heritage FCU) to our Ignite family, pending a membership vote. If approved, we will add 390 new members and $3.1 million in assets.
Latvian Heritage FCU is a full-service financial institution working to meet the needs of the Latvian Heritage community. There are currently two branches located in Detroit, Michigan, and Grand Rapids, Michigan. To become a member of the Latvian Heritage Federal Credit Union, you must be a person of Latvian descent who is a member of an acknowledged Latvian religious organization or a member of a Latvian social organization.
“We are very excited about the possibilities that partnering with Latvian Heritage Federal Credit Union will bring,” said Kristopher Lewis, CEO of Ignite Credit Union. “We are both dedicated to supporting the financial well-being of our members and communities. By joining forces, we can create greater value and opportunities for those we serve.”
“We believe that this partnership will strengthen our mutual commitment to serving our communities and fostering a sense of financial empowerment among our members,” added John Rikans, President and CEO of Latvian Heritage Federal Credit Union. “We are truly excited about the benefits that expanding our resources will bring to our members and communities.”
Representing over $381 million in assets, Ignite Credit Union is a state-chartered, federally insured Credit Union with 3 credit union brands - Allegan Credit Union, Rivertown Credit Union, and BlueOx Credit Union. We believe people deserve a friendly local credit union backed by powerful resources and financial knowledge. This is why we help Michigan credit unions expand access while keeping their local community atmosphere to help shape the future of the industry for good. Visit www.ignitecreditunion.com for more information.
BlueOx Credit Union Announces College Scholarship 2024 Recipients
At BlueOx Credit Union, we celebrate and promote education that engages, enriches, and inspires our young people to develop knowledge and skills for life-long financial competence. Investing in our future leaders through our BlueOx Community Scholarship Program is one small way we give back to our communities. The BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship is open to all graduating high school seniors pursuing any form of postsecondary education.
Six $1,000 scholarships were awarded this year, named after retired Board Members Al Mumford, Dale Dittmer, Doug Voshell, Jeffrey Stanton, and Robert Harvey, as well as former BlueOx Credit Union CEO Fran Godfrey.
We are excited and honored to announce our six BlueOx Community Scholarship Recipients for 2024. The winners were selected based on their academic excellence and outstanding community service.
Al Mumford BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Avery Moran
A 2024 graduate of Pennfield High School, Avery maintained a 4.3 GPA. She volunteered at South Michigan Food Bank and was a member of the National Honor Society. Avery also participated in basketball and volleyball and was selected as Team Captain for softball. In her Senior year, she was a member of the Student Advisory Committee.
Avery is attending Western Michigan University to study Health Sciences and pursue a career in Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation.
Dale Dittmer BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Kalvin Frank
Kalvin graduated from Lakeview High School in 2024 and maintained a 4.4 GPA throughout his high school career. He participated in golf and was selected as the Team Captain for tennis and swimming. Kalvin was also a Deca State Officer, a member of the National Honor Society, and served as Class and Student Body President.
Kalvin is continuing his education to study Engineering/Manufacturing and Industrial Technology, with a future career in Engineering.
Doug Voshell BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Kayla Smith
Kayla graduated from Homer High School in 2024 and maintained a 4.1 GPA throughout her high school career. She participated in cheerleading, dance, concert, jazz band, and theater. In concert, she played the flute/piccolo and was first chair for three years, while in jazz, she played the alto saxophone and was the lead alto for three years. Kayla also participated in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program and was a member of the National Honors Society.
Kayla is continuing her education at Michigan State University to study Health Sciences and pursue a career in Science.
Fran Godfrey BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Miranda Huerta
Miranda is a 2024 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School, maintaining a 3.8 GPA. She was a member of the National Honor Society and a Link Crew Leader. Throughout her high school career, Miranda was active in the Red Cross Club and Spanish Club and participated in soccer.
Miranda is continuing her education at Michigan State University to study Health Sciences and pursue a career in Biology.
Jeffrey Stanton BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Rita Kim
A St. Philip High School graduate in 2024, Rita maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.8. Throughout her high school career, she participated in art club, interact club, soccer, track, and volleyball and was selected as the Team Captain for cross country. Rita was a member of the National Honor Society and Assistant Secretary at her church. She also participated in Chin Events, as well as multiple Burma Center events and fundraisers.
Rita is continuing her education at the University of Michigan, where she will study Health Sciences and pursue a career in Behavioral and Public Health.
Robert Harvey BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Trey Sebring
A Battle Creek Central High School graduate in 2024, Trey maintained a cumulative GPA of 4.0. Throughout his high school career, he participated in swimming and volleyball and was selected as the Team Captain for tennis. Trey was also a Classroom Tutor and Sergeant in Airforce ROTC (Civil Air Patrol). During his Senior year, he was a member of the Youth Alliance Council and Organizer and Committee Member of the High School Climate Change Symposium.
Trey is continuing his education at Michigan Technological University, where he will study Engineering/Manufacturing & Industrial Technology.
Michigan Small Business Development Center (Michigan SBDC) Launches No-Cost Educational Series: “Fundamentals of Small Business Success”
Kalamazoo, MI – The Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC)’s Southwest Region announces the launch of its new no-cost business educational series, “Fundamentals of Small Business Success.” The series is designed to empower entrepreneurs to realize their dreams and foster growth in the local economy, and to provide participants with the essential skills and knowledge required to successfully start a small business. The program will cover the core essentials of starting, owning, and running a business—equipping participants with the tools they need to succeed.
The program is funded by BlueOx Credit Union, a division of Ignite Credit Union, and is conducted in partnership with the Albion Economic Development Corporation, the Greater Albion Chamber of Commerce and Albion College.
Michigan SBDC Regional Director Bonnie Gabriel expressed enthusiasm for the program, stating, “We are thrilled to bring the ‘Fundamentals of Small Business Success’ series to the greater Albion area. This program represents a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to gain the skills and knowledge they need at no cost to turn their dreams into reality. We are excited to work closely with the participants and witness the positive impact their new ventures will have on the community.”
About the Program
The on-site, eight-week no-cost training program will be held on Tuesdays from 4-6 p.m. at The Ludington Center, 101 N. Superior Street, in Albion. The first session begins on Tuesday, August 6th. Each workshop will run between one to two hours depending on the complexity of the subject matter, and will offer a Q&A session in which participants can interact and have their questions answered. Participants should plan to attend all sessions to gain the full benefit of the program. In addition to the learning material, participants will have the opportunity to network and learn from their peers, their facilitator and Michigan SBDC business consultants.
Albion Economic Development Corporation President/CEO Virgie Ammerman, commented, “We are excited to partner with like-minded organizations to share free tools and insights with local business owners and those interested in starting a business in the greater Albion area. By fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and mentorship, our community and those within it are more likely to thrive. This series is a great opportunity to develop key relationships while learning what it takes to successfully operate a small business.”
Steve Cobb, President of BlueOx Credit Union, a division of Ignite Credit Union, stated, “BlueOx Credit Union is committed to being an active part of our local communities and is proud to support organizations that cause change, improve lives, and drive progress. We are honored to join Michigan SBDC and the Albion Economic Development Corporation in their mission to empower small business owners and provide them with the resources and guidance they need to succeed.”
Impact and Goals
The primary goal of the program is to provide support, guidance and encouragement to business owners as they navigate the extensive entrepreneurial ecosystem. By offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential business principles, the aim is to empower participants with the knowledge and confidence to launch and sustain successful ventures, by:
- Fostering Economic Growth: Stimulate economic development and job creation within the Albion area by equipping local entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed.
- Enhancing Business Success Rates: Increase the success rates of new businesses by providing foundational training and ongoing support.
- Building a Stronger Community: Build a more resilient and dynamic community by nurturing local talent and encouraging entrepreneurship.
- Promoting Innovation: Encourage new business ideas and innovative approaches to help diversify the local economy and attract further investment.
- Strengthening Partnerships: Create a robust support network for small business owners by collaborating with BlueOx Credit Union, a division of Ignite Credit Union, the Albion Economic Development Corporation, the Greater Albion Chamber of Commerce and Albion College.
By offering this training at no cost, the Michigan SBDC Southwest Region intends to remove barriers to entry for aspiring entrepreneurs and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their financial background.
How to Apply
Interested individuals can apply for the program by completing an application at https://bit.ly/3zFwEBy by July 30, 2024. Applicants will be notified of acceptance into the program on August 1, 2024.
For more questions about the no-cost training program or how to apply, please contact the Michigan SBDC Southwest Region at 269-387-6004 or email sbtdc-kzoo@wmich.edu.
About the Michigan Small Business Development Center
The Michigan Small Business Development Center’s mission is to provide no-cost consulting, business education, market research, and technology commercialization to new and existing businesses throughout Michigan’s 83 counties. Michigan SBDC services are available through the support of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
The Michigan SBDC is committed to fostering and sustaining a culture of inclusion through equitable outreach and service to Michigan’s diverse business community. Entrepreneurs and small business owners may access the services of their nearest Michigan SBDC office by visiting michigansbdc.org.
The MIchigan SBDC is hosted on a state level by Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business. Regional hosts include Saginaw Valley State University, Grand Valley State University, Western Michigan University, Mid Michigan College, Michigan Technological University, Kettering University, Eastern Michigan University, Washtenaw Community College, and Lansing Community College.
The Michigan SBDC Southwest Region is locally hosted by Western Michigan University and serves small businesses in Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Van Buren counties.
Ignite Credit Union and BlueOx Credit Union Announce Merger Approvals
Battle Creek, MI - Ignite Credit Union and BlueOx Credit Union are excited to announce their merger has received regulatory approval and member approval by a majority vote of the Ignite Credit Union membership. The legal date of the merger for the two organizations is planned for Monday, July 1, 2024.
The newly merged organization will serve more than 32,000 members with a branch network of 11 branches throughout Michigan. Combined, the organization will have assets of over $376 million.
At the time of the legal merger, the two credit unions will operate under the unified brand name of Ignite Credit Union, with Blue Ox Credit Union becoming a division of Ignite. BlueOx Credit Union’s legal name will become “BlueOx Credit Union, a Division of Ignite Credit Union.” From a member perspective, there will be minimal impact at the legal merger date, apart from the combined organization aiming for members to be able to conduct transactions at all 11 branch locations. Both organizations will continue to serve members as usual as they ramp up efforts to fully integrate their systems by late 2024/early 2025.
This model, where each organization maintains its individual name, was established in 2022 when Allegan Credit Union and Rivertown Credit Union merged. This collaborative concept allows the credit unions to ensure their rich histories and legacies continue to be honored.
“I am thrilled to see the overwhelming support from our members for the merger of Blue Ox Credit Union and Ignite Credit Union,” said Kristopher Lewis, President/CEO of Ignite Credit Union. “This vote of confidence affirms our vision of creating a stronger financial institution that is better equipped to serve our members and communities while preserving their individual credit union histories. Together, under the unified brand of Ignite Credit Union, we will continue to prioritize innovation, personalized service, and community impact, driving positive change and prosperity for members, employees, and communities."
“We are grateful for the significant vote of confidence from members,” added Steven Cobb, President/CEO of BlueOx Credit Union. “We are excited to begin the process of joining forces to demonstrate our mutual dedication to elevating the financial well-being of our members and communities. By joining forces under the Ignite Credit Union banner, we are poised to deliver even greater value and opportunities for our members while still upholding our commitment to personalized service, community support, and long-term success."
As of the date of the legal merger, Kristopher Lewis, President/CEO of Ignite, will be the CEO, and Steven Cobb, President/CEO of BlueOx, will be the President of the newly combined organization.
More information, including FAQs regarding the merger, can be found on both Ignite and BlueOx Credit Union’s websites (www.ignitecreditunion.com and www.blueoxcu.org), and other applicable communication channels.
Ignite Credit Union
Ignite Credit Union is the recent culmination of Allegan Credit Union and Rivertown Community Federal Credit Union, two credit unions that formed a partnership to serve their members, employees, and communities more effectively. Both credit unions share blue-collar roots and believed that by joining together, they could do more than either of them could do alone. Uniquely each credit union has maintained its individual brands under the umbrella credit union created in Ignite.
BlueOx Credit Union
Blue Ox’s story began in 1936 in Battle Creek, Michigan – Inspired by a small handful of educators from the Battle Creek School System. BlueOx’s original field of membership was limited to teachers, principals, supervisors, and superintendents of the Battle Creek School System. Today BlueOx Credit Union’s field of membership is open to the entire state of Michigan.
BlueOx Credit Union is Named a 2024 Winner Of West Michigan's Best and Brightest Companies to Work For
National Association for Business Resources Announces 2024 Best and Brightest Winners in West Michigan
April 12, 2024 — The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® is proud to announce and honor the 2024 West Michigan winning companies. Only companies that distinguish themselves as having the most innovative business acuteness and human resource practices can be bestowed this honor. Considering the ten to one ratio of this program, these winning companies are truly innovative in their employee engagement execution.
The winning companies were assessed by an independent research firm, which reviewed several key measures relative to other nationally recognized winners. The categories applicants were scored on include: Compensation, Benefits and Employee Solutions; Creative Wellness and Wellbeing Solutions, Employee Enrichment, Engagement and Retention; Employee Education and Development; Recruitment and Selection; Employee Achievement and Recognition; Communication and Shared Vision; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Work-Life Blend; Community Initiatives and Corporate Responsibility; and Leadership, Strategy and Company Performance.
With over 25 years of experience conducting the Best and Brightest competitions, the National Association for Business Resources (NABR) has identified numerous best Human Resource practices and provided benchmarking for companies that continue to be leaders in employment standards.
"Jennifer Kluge, President and CEO of NABR and the Best & Brightest Programs, highlighted that these companies have prioritized making a significant impact on their culture. With a focus on their employees as the top priority, this powerful community of the nation's elite leaders have gained a competitive edge."
The “Best and Brightest Companies to Work For®”, a program of the National Association for Business Resources, is presented annually in several markets: Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Miami, Milwaukee, Nashville, New England, New York, Northern California, Pacific Northwest, Southern California, West Michigan and Nationally. Nominations are now being accepted for all programs. Visit www.thebestandbrightest.com to obtain an application.
BlueOx Board Member Doug Voshell Retires After 20 Years of Service
Long-time BlueOx Credit Union Board Member Doug Voshell is retiring from the volunteer Board of Directors at the end of his term in April. Doug has been a member of BlueOx Credit Union since 1973. He was elected to the Board of Directors in 2004. During his time, he has served on a variety of committees such as Personnel, M&E, Gift Giving, and ALM. Doug has attended several Credit Union National Association (CUNA) conferences, completing certifications and board educational requirements.
In 2004, when Doug joined the Board, BlueOx Credit Union (then known as United Educational Credit Union) had three branches, 15,533 members, and more than $77 million in assets. Currently, BlueOx has six branches, 20,696 members, and $227 million in assets.
"Doug's long-standing support, industry, and institutional knowledge have been invaluable to BlueOx Credit Union. He's always steered our attention toward member value and Credit Union financial stability and support to our staff," said BlueOx Credit Union Chief Executive Officer Steve Cobb. "His dedication to us has been vital to our success."
A small gathering, including Doug’s family and his fellow Board of Directors, will take place in celebration and honor of Doug’s retirement.
Representing $227 million in assets, BlueOx Credit Union is a state-chartered, federally insured credit union, with membership open to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in the state of Michigan. To find out how you can join BlueOx Credit Union, visit BlueOXcu.org today.
BlueOx Credit Union and Ignite Credit Union Jointly Announce Their Intent to Merge
Battle Creek, MI - Ignite Credit Union and BlueOx Credit Union are excited to announce their plans to merge pending regulatory approval and a membership vote. If approved, the combined organization will operate under the unified brand name, Ignite Credit Union, but will continue to keep their individual names. Under this model, BlueOx would become “BlueOx Credit Union, a Division of Ignite Credit Union.”
This model, where each organization maintains its individual name, was established in 2022 when Allegan Credit Union and Rivertown Credit Union merged. This collaborative concept allows the credit unions to ensure their rich histories and legacies continue to be honored.
Overall, the combined assets would be more than $376M dollars, serving more than 32,000+ members with 11 branches throughout Michigan.
Credit Union mergers remain a hot industry topic. In a financial services sector that is constantly shifting, and is highly regulated, it is becoming more difficult for smaller credit unions to compete at the same level as the bigger players. Industry-wide, there are more organizations pursuing merger strategies that include strategic mergers like this one. For many smaller credit unions left on their own, it is becoming increasingly challenging to offer the wide range of products and services that members want. Attracting new members and new employees in this competitive market is also becoming increasingly difficult. Becoming a larger credit union provides opportunities to leverage resources and position organizations for continued growth. In turn, this would result in being able to provide even more benefits to members in the form of more product and service access, and integrating new and robust technologies while continuing to maintain their unique brand identity that focuses on delivering excellent service.
Both credit unions wanted to find a partner that matched their own passion, aligned closely with their own mission, and shared dedication and loyalty to their team members, members, and community. Another amazing benefit of this partnership is that both credit unions are on the same core system, and combining the two organizations will cause minimal to no member disruptions.
“What better way to demonstrate the credit union industry’s commitment to serve than to partner with a like-minded organization,” commented Steven Cobb, President/CEO of BlueOx Credit Union, “We pride ourselves on helping our members and communities in every way possible and are constantly looking for ways to maximize that impact. We look forward to not only continuing that commitment through this partnership but to a brighter future together, serving more members.”
Recently completing a merger, Kristopher Lewis, President/CEO of Ignite Credit Union, added, “Credit Unions continue to be a huge financial voice and advocate for the communities we serve. I am super excited about our partnership with BlueOx Credit Union and what it means for the future. Mergers like this, born out of the passion to serve more members and help more people, increase our voice and the impact we can make."
As member-owned cooperatives and under the guidelines of the National Credit Union Association, full merger approval is contingent upon Ignite Credit Union membership approval. It is anticipated the entities will become one credit union sometime in mid-2024. As the merger process moves forward, both credit unions will provide information to their respective Memberships via their websites (www.IgniteCreditUnion.com and www.BlueOXcu.org) and other applicable communication channels.
Ignite Credit Union
Ignite Credit Union is the recent culmination of Allegan Credit Union and Rivertown Community Federal Credit Union, two credit unions that formed a partnership to serve their members, employees, and communities more effectively. Both credit unions share blue-collar roots and believed that by joining together, they could do more than either of them could do alone. Uniquely, each credit union has maintained its individual brands under the umbrella credit union created in Ignite.
BlueOx Credit Union
BlueOx’s story began in 1936 in Battle Creek, Michigan – Inspired by a small handful of educators from the Battle Creek School System. BlueOx’s original field of membership was limited to teachers, principals, supervisors, and superintendents of the Battle Creek School System. Today, BlueOx Credit Union’s field of membership is open to the entire state of Michigan.
BlueOx Credit Union Announces College Scholarship 2023 Recipients
“At BlueOx, we celebrate and promote education that engages, enriches, and inspires our young people to develop knowledge and skills for life-long financial competence,” said BlueOx Credit Union President and Chief Executive Officer, Steve Cobb, “so we are honored to help and invest in these BlueOx Credit Union members along their educational path with four $1,000 scholarships, named after retired Board Members - Al Mumford, Dale Dittmer, Jeffrey Stanton, and Robert Harvey.” The winners are selected based on their excellence in academics and outstanding community service.
Al Mumford BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Allison Myers
A 2023 graduate of Harper Creek High School, Allison maintained a 4.3 GPA. Allison was a Youth Alliance Committee (BCCF) Member and the Harper Creek Student Council Secretary. She also served as President of the Environmental Sustainable Action Club and the Racial Alliance Committee for Equity. In her Senior year, Allison participated in the CONRAD Innovation Challenge, where she received the CONRAD Innovator Recognition for the Health and Nutrition category.
Allison is attending the University of Michigan to study Health Sciences and pursue a career in Biology.
Dale Dittmer BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Cameron Daniels
Cameron is a 2023 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School and maintained a 4.5 GPA throughout his high school career. Cameron participated in basketball, soccer, and track - where he was selected as the Varsity Team Captain. He also served as President of the National Honors Society.
Cameron is continuing his education at the University of Michigan to study Engineering/Manufacturing and Industrial Technology, with a future career in Engineering.
Jeffrey Stanton BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Cing San
Cing is a 2023 graduate of Lakeview High School, maintaining a 4.2 GPA. She was a National Honor Society and Link Crew member. Throughout her high school career, Cing was active in the Student Senate, was the Burmese Club Secretary, and taught Sunday School.
Cing is continuing her education at the University of Michigan to study Health Sciences and pursue a career in Medicine as a first-generation college student.
Robert Harvey BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Kaden Nicolich
A Harper Creek High School graduate in 2023, Kaden maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.9. Throughout his high school career, he served as President of the Harper Creek Student Council and the National Honor Society. Kaden was also Head Chair for the Battle Creek Community Foundation Youth Alliance Committee and a Youth Representative for the Battle Creek Community Foundation Board of Trustees. During his Senior year, he was the Center Representative for the MASC/MAHS Student Board of Delegates.
Kaden is continuing his education at the University of Michigan, where he will study Health Sciences and pursue a career in Biology.
BlueOx Credit Union is Named a 2023 Winner Of West Michigan's Best and Brightest Companies to Work For
National Association for Business Resources Announces 2023 Best and Brightest Winners in West Michigan
April 13, 2023 — The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® is proud to announce and honor the newest 2023 winning companies. Only companies that distinguish themselves as having the most innovative business acumen and human resource practices can be bestowed this honor. Considering the ten to one ratio of this program, these winning companies are truly innovative in their employee engagement execution.
The winning companies were assessed by an independent research firm, which reviewed several key measures relative to other nationally recognized winners. The categories applicants were scored on include: Compensation, Benefits and Employee Solutions; Creative Wellness and Wellbeing Solutions, Employee Enrichment, Engagement and Retention; Employee Education and Development; Recruitment and Selection; Employee Achievement and Recognition; Communication and Shared Vision; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Work-Life Blend; Community Initiatives and Corporate Responsibility; and Leadership, Strategy and Company Performance.
With over 25 years of experience conducting the Best and Brightest competitions, the National Association for Business Resources (NABR) has identified numerous best Human Resource practices and provided benchmarking for companies that continue to be leaders in employment standards.
“Those companies that made the list of Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® as well as those companies that continue to make the list are truly remarkable. Given today’s need for talent, retention of talent, and the further issues related to the pandemic, these companies have proven they are superior to market conditions. They are elite thinkers and this honor demonstrates their commitment to excellence,” said Jennifer Kluge, President and CEO of NABR and The Best and Brightest Program.
About the Best and Brightest Programs
The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® is a powerful community of the Nation’s elite leaders who share ideas, practices and have proven they are employers of choice. This program identifies and honors organizations that display a commitment to excellence in operations and employee enrichment that lead to increased productivity and financial performance. There are numerous regional programs throughout the United States, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Houston, Milwaukee, San Diego, San Francisco, Miami, New York, Charlotte, Denver, Nashville, Pacific Northwest and Nationally. Nominations are now being accepted for all programs. Visit thebestandbrightest.com to nominate your organization.
BlueOx Credit Union Partners with JATA, Funding Over 650 Rides for Citizens Rebuilding Their Lives
In cooperation with BlueOx Credit Union, the Jackson Area Transportation Authority is proud to announce a new program aimed at lowering transportation hurdles for Jackson residents actively rebuilding their lives. The program will benefit two Jackson area nonprofits and their clients. The Home of New Vision, a leader in substance use disorder treatment, and the Jackson Interfaith Shelter, whose mission is working with people experiencing homelessness, serve a segment of the population that often lacks access to safe, affordable, and dependable transportation.
BlueOx Credit Union has created an account with JATA for both the Home of New Vision and the Jackson Interfaith Shelter, seeding each with $500, which the nonprofits can access to pay for a client's bus pass or Reserve-a-Ride to job interviews, health care appointments, or other vital services.
"We commend BlueOx Credit Union for their generosity and commitment to these Jackson nonprofits and our community. We look forward to growing this program to benefit more residents and area nonprofits," said Jackson Area Transportation Authority Executive Director Michael Brown.
Jessica Webb, Business Development Manager for the Credit Union, who played a significant role in developing the program, said, “BlueOx Credit Union is proud to partner with JATA in providing a solution of transportation needs for both Jackson Interfaith Home and Home of New Vision. Our core values focus on people helping people, creating solutions, igniting change, and supporting growth and prosperity in the communities we serve. We are thrilled to see this initiative come to fruition.”
Patrick O'Dowd
Government & Community Relations Manager
Jackson Area Transportation Authority
517.936.7673
BlueOx Board Member Al Mumford Retires After 50 Years of Service
Long-time BlueOx Credit Union Board Member Al Mumford is retiring from the volunteer Board of Directors at the end of his term in April 2023. As a BlueOx member since 1964, Al has served in various volunteer board positions since 1973, including the Supervisory Committee, Building & Equipment Committee, Nominating Committee, and Personnel Committee. He has been Vice Chair and Board Chair. He has also received the Raiffeisen, Filene, and Bergengren awards from the National Credit Union Association (NCUA).
“Working with the dedicated Board and staff at BlueOx Credit Union has been a pleasure. I expect this credit union to continue to serve our community with integrity and excellence for the credit union movement.” Says board member Al Mumford.
“Al’s long-standing support, industry, and institutional knowledge have been invaluable to BlueOx Credit Union. He's always steered our attention toward member value and Credit Union financial stability, and support to our staff,” said BlueOx Credit Union Chief Executive Officer Steve Cobb. “His dedication to us has been vital to our success.”
Representing over $222 million in assets, BlueOx Credit Union is a state-chartered, federally insured credit union, with membership open to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Michigan. To find out how you can join BlueOx Credit Union, visit BlueOXcu.org today.
A Letter From Our President and CEO, Steve Cobb
To our Members,
The recent news of potential bank failures due to investment in high-risk start-up technology companies is a great reminder why banking with BlueOx Credit Union, and credit unions in general, is the safest place to do your banking. In our 87 years of business with our local Michigan communities, we have weathered every economic storm along the way.
We were born out of the great depression in 1936. BlueOx has served the state of Michigan and our owner members as their trusted fiduciaries for the entirety of our existence. Credit Unions are owned by you, the member, not stockholders, and are run by a volunteer board of directors who cares about our Michigan communities. Our credit union started with school employees passing a cigar box to collect donations to lend to fellow employees, with interest, to fund the dreams of their future. Our business today is no different. Our assets are our members that take out high-performing loans for automobiles, homes, small businesses, and other needs. Our members are individuals and small businesses in our community with Midwest ethics and values of hard work, perseverance, and strength. That is what BlueOx has always represented.
Not one penny of insured savings has ever been lost by a member of a federally insured credit union. We offer a safe place to save your money, with deposits insured by the NCUA up to $250,000 per individual depositor. If you have more than $250,000 at any credit union, several additional share insurance coverage options are available. Our credit union's financial strength backs any federally uninsured deposits. Unnecessary risk-taking and extraordinary profit-seeking are not part of the mission, vision, and core values of BlueOx Credit Union. We adhere to the credit union philosophy of not for profit, not for charity, but for service. Our commitment to our Members today is the same as 87 years ago to be faithful stewards of your hard-earned money.
Now is the time, if you are uncertain about your money at a bank, to invest in your neighborhood, your community, or your BlueOx Credit Union!
BlueOx Credit Union Announces Partnership With Zogo, a Free Financial Education App
BlueOx Credit Union is pleased to announce a new partnership with Zogo, a free financial education app for all ages. Zogo makes learning financial literacy fun and rewarding for all ages. This gamified platform is complete with an ever-expanding content library of over 800 bite-sized lessons for any age group, with a rewards program that incentivizes users to keep learning!
BlueOx recently revamped our Youth Banking Program to provide a simpler and more rewarding experience for our youngest members. The goal of this banking program is to come alongside parents and guardians to help them teach their kids and teens about the value of saving money by giving them the control they want and kids the freedom they need to learn and establish healthy financial habits to last a lifetime. One amazing perk of this youth program is the financial education with Zogo.
Ready to kickstart your young one’s financial future? Open a BlueOx Bright Beginnings Account today and start saving money, earning rewards, and gaining a wealth of financial knowledge! Click the button below to learn more.
BlueOx Credit Union Announces College Scholarship 2022 Recipients
“At BlueOx, we celebrate and promote education that engages, enriches, and inspires our young people to develop knowledge and skills for life-long financial competence,” said BlueOx Credit Union President and Chief Executive Officer, Steve Cobb, “so we are honored to help and invest in these BlueOx Credit Union members along their educational path with six $1,000 scholarships, three of which are named after retired Board Members, Dale Dittmer, Jeffrey Stanton, and Robert Harvey.” The winners are selected based on their excellence in academics and outstanding community service.
Dale Dittmer BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
D’Asia Hicks
D’Asia is a 2022 graduate of Lakeview High School, maintaining a 3.6 GPA. She was a Lakeview Step Team Captain and a Link Crew leader. Throughout high school, D’Asia was active in the Black Student Union Core Team and was an advisory board member. She was also a National Honors Society member for all four years of her high school career. D’Asia is continuing her education at Grand Valley State University to study Health Sciences and pursue a career in Nursing as a first-generation college student.
Jeffrey Stanton BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Kasey Conklin
A 2022 graduate of Lakeview High School, Kasey maintained a cumulative 3.7 GPA. Kasey was President and a member of her high school’s Key Club for two years. She participated in the 2021 High School Climate Change Symposium and the KCC & WMU Homer Stryker Healthcare Pipeline. She was also active in the Color Guard and played the flute for six years. Kasey is continuing her education at Michigan State University to study Health Sciences and pursue a career in Biology as a first-generation college student.
Robert Harvey BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Vanessa Hebreo
A graduate of Lakeview High School in 2022, Vanessa maintained a cumulative GPA of 2.1. She participated in wrestling, powder puff, and softball during her high school career. As a first-generation college student, Vanessa is continuing her education at Kellogg Community College to study Health Sciences and major in Exercise Science.
BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarships
Eliana Wilson
A 2022 graduate of Calhoun Christian School, Eliana maintained a 4.1 GPA. She participated in basketball and volleyball all four years of her high school career and was the Team Captain for both sports her Senior year. She was also active in AAU Basketball and Environmental Action and Sustainability. Eliana is attending Loyola University Chicago to study Health Sciences, with a future career in Biology.
Thang Khup
A 2022 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School, Thang maintained a 3.2 GPA. He was the Team Captain of his school’s soccer team, which he participated in for four years. Thang is continuing his education at Grand Valley State University. As a first-generation college student, he is studying Business, Management, Marketing, and Technology to pursue a career in Accounting.
Tyler Sebright
Tyler is a 2022 graduate of Harper Creek High School and maintained a 3.6 GPA throughout his high school career. He participated in football, powerlifting, and track and served as the Team Captain for all three sports. Tyler was also a member of the Link Crew and the National Honors Society. He is continuing his education at Olivet College to study Natural Resources and Agriculture, with a major in Environmental Studies and Sustainability.
Representing over $226 million in assets, BlueOx Credit Union is a state-chartered, federally insured Credit Union, with membership open to individuals who live, work, worship, or attend school in the state of Michigan. To find out how you can join, visit BlueOXcu.org. Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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