AUBURN HILLS, Mich.–Genisys Credit Union is celebrating its 85th anniversary.
“Since its start the credit union has had many reasons to celebrate, but what is at the heart of what we do and most worth celebrating, is our members,” said Jackie Buchanan, president & CEO. “As credit unions are not-for-profit financial institutions, the foundation of Genisys is rooted in our members and without them, we would not have made it to 85 years. I would like to thank each and every one of them for their continued support and for allowing us the opportunity to make a positive difference in their lives.”
With humble beginnings dating back to 1936, Genisys noted it is composed of T&C Federal Credit Union, USA Credit Union, and Tri-Pointe Credit Union and has since grown to become the fourth largest in Michigan, serving over 242,000 members. The CU said its unified vision of Where You Come First is the guiding narrative in supporting their members’ financial journeys through times of both economic uncertainty like COVID-19 and prosperity.
“Genisys truly fulfilled the business purpose and tagline, ‘Where you come first!’,” said Prasad Gullapalli, founder & CEO of Srinergy. “We have been waiting for more than three weeks with our current bank and with Genisys it took less than two days from start to finish to process our [PPP] loan. Thank you to the entire behind-the-scenes team at Genisys that is helping small businesses like ours in these hard times.”
The credit union added its commitment to members can be seen in its Genius High Yield Checking, which pays members an annual percentage yield (APY) of 4.07% and which offers debit card rewards. Those 18 and under have a High Yield Youth Savings with an APY of 5.12% on balances up to $500.
“This program aims to help our youngest members learn the importance of financial literacy by growing their savings,” said Buchanan. “Financial knowledge and capability are key in empowering an individual to reach their goals for financial freedom and choice - it’s never too early to start that education.”
In addition, the CU said ensuring the vitality of small businesses and individual members across their local economies fuels the economic engines of the communities in which the credit union serves and further allows Genisys to make an impact.
“A cornerstone of community action lies in giving back,” said Buchanan. “We focus on upholding the role of community partner by ensuring each branch in our footprint is supported based on the area’s unique needs, positively impacting the well-being of our members.”
With a commitment to development throughout their branch locations in Michigan, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania, Genisys said it partners with local organizations to support events for community members to attend at little or no cost, brings Financial Reality Fairs to schools for students to get hands-on experience with budgeting & financial wellness and raises funds for non-profit organizations like Lighthouse and the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan.
“Their dedication to public good is inseparable from their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. At the credit union, it is central to their mission as a financial and community partner to ensure each member of their communities has access to thrive in their environment,” Genisys said. “They are working on initiatives to create shared spaces that foster inclusive and equitable communities through multiple projects like accessible and inclusive playgrounds. They’ve partnered with Michigan-based organizations: Huron Clinton MetroParks, Independence Township Parks, Recreation & Seniors, and the Inclusive Playground Pals of Clinton Township to further these efforts.”