What's Happening
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 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 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.
BlueOx Credit Union is Named a 2022 Winner Of West Michigan's Best and Brightest Companies to Work For
National Association for Business Resources Announces 2022 Best and Brightest Winners in West Michigan
June 6, 2022 — The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® is proud to announce and honor the early round of 2022 winners in West Michigan. The next round of Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® winners will be honored in July 2022.
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 20 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.
“These 2022 winning organizations have stood out during unpredictable times and have proven they are an employer of choice. They continue to keep the needs of their employees first and provide perks that include development, well-being, work-life balance, rewards, and recognition. In addition, these winning companies offer a fantastic work culture and workplace environment that attracts and retains superior employees,” 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® competition identifies and honors organizations that display a commitment to excellence in operations and employee enrichment that lead to increased productivity and financial performance. This competition scores potential winners based on regional data of company performance and a set standard across the nation. This program celebrates those companies that are making better business, creating richer lives, and building a stronger community as a whole. There are numerous regional celebrations throughout the country, 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 announces merchant services agreement with payments leader Elavon
BlueOx will now offer payment processing services to business owners.
BlueOx Credit Union today announced a new merchant services agreement with Elavon, one of the largest payment processors globally and a wholly-owned subsidiary of U.S. Bank. This will allow BlueOx the ability to offer merchant processing services to business members. Merchant processing includes point-of-sale terminal purchases and rentals, online payment processing, mobile payment processing, and more.
“Elavon allows BlueOx the ability to extend additional treasury management solutions to our business members,” says Adele Garcia, Vice President of Lending and Marketing at BlueOx Credit Union. “Business members today need to know they can rely on their local financial institution to meet all their financial needs.”
“BlueOX Credit Union is dedicated to meeting the needs of the Michigan members and communities they support, and we are excited about the opportunity to partner with them,” said Joe Myers, President of Elavon North America. “Through this, we plan to extend innovative, secure payment solutions to their members while providing a personalized customer experience.”
The benefits of this new agreement include:
- Offering the latest payment technology
- Advanced payment security
- Payment acceptance is how the business chooses
- Convenient reporting tools
- Businesses get funds faster
About BlueOx Credit Union
BlueOx Credit Union was formed on April 16, 1936, by a group of educators from Battle Creek, MI. They have grown from 79 members after their first year of operation to currently over 22,000 members and six branch locations. Their vision is to be the financial institution of choice for their members, powered by innovation, providing extraordinary personal service, and building relationships
About Elavon (www.elavon.com)
Elavon is wholly owned by U.S. Bank (NYSE: USB), the fifth-largest bank in the United States, and provides end-to-end payment processing solutions and services to more than 1.3 million customers in the United States, Europe, and Canada. As the leading provider for airlines and a top five provider in hospitality, healthcare, retail, and public sector/education, Elavon’s innovative payment solutions are designed to solve pain points for businesses from small to the largest global enterprises.
Mortgage Center and BlueOx Credit Union Announce New Partnership
Mortgage options and credit union exclusives are now available to all BlueOx Credit Union members.
Mortgage Center has announced a new partnership with BlueOx Credit Union to offer the credit union’s entire membership home loan options, beginning January 4th, 2022. In addition to the origination of home loans, Mortgage Center will be providing a special limited-time offer of $500 off closing costs* for all BlueOx Credit Union members.
“The ability to provide the exceptional service Mortgage Center has become known for and being able to offer a wide variety of credit union exclusive loan products to the BlueOx Credit Union member base is an incredibly exciting opportunity,” said Ken Martin, Mortgage Center’s CEO. “BlueOx Credit Union operates with similar core values as Mortgage Center, so our partnership couldn’t be more beneficial for both of us.”
Mortgage Center will have a presence in all six branches of BlueOx Credit Union beginning in January 2022. Along with the traditional mortgage options, they’ll also offer home loan products that work for almost any BlueOx Credit Union member – from first-time home buyers to new construction to members who are looking to refinance their mortgage. The partnership will include comprehensive training on mortgage options provided by Mortgage Center to the entire staff at BlueOx Credit Union.
“BlueOx Credit Union has been providing quality financial services to their members since their initial founding in 1936,” said Christopher Lasota, Chief Experience Officer at Mortgage Center, “We’re hoping to build upon that tradition by providing exceptional mortgage services for all their members.”
“We’re beyond thrilled to be partnering with Mortgage Center as we continue to provide our members with everything they need to expand financial freedom,” said Adele Garcia, Vice President of Lending at BlueOx Credit Union. “We know our members have come to expect convenience and innovation from BlueOx Credit Union, and partnering with Mortgage Center gives them both.”
About Mortgage Center
Mortgage Center has been working with credit unions, their members, and home loan borrowers since 1990 with the goal of growing the credit union community. They have over 100 experienced home loan experts who are guided by the core values of the company. Mortgage Center is completely owned by credit unions, which means their rates and closing costs remain competitively low, keeping more cash in members’ pockets while generating revenue for the credit union community.
About Blue Ox Credit Union
BlueOx Credit Union was formed on April 16, 1936, by a group of educators from Battle Creek, MI. They have grown from 79 members after their first year of operation to currently over 22,000 members and six branch locations. Their vision is to be the financial institution of choice for their members, powered by innovation, providing extraordinary personal service, and building relationships.
BlueOx Credit Union Branch Manager to Sleep Outdoors to Bring Awareness to Homelessness
On November 2, BlueOx Credit Union Coldwater Branch Manager, Drew Boucher, will be participating in “One Night Without a Home.” This is a Coldwater community event in which volunteers, like Boucher, will meet outside of the Coach Eby Center and sleep in cardboard boxes from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. to help bring awareness around homelessness.
“’ The homeless,’ as an abstract, is far easier to walk past and ignore than the reality of too-thin children or forgotten veterans shivering in the cold.” Said BlueOx Credit Union Coldwater Branch Manager Drew Boucher. “To be able to shake their hand and let them know that they are not forgotten and that they have value, and can have hope for a better life means the world to me. We can do better, and I know that we will.” Individuals can make in-kind donations to this cause by visiting FamilyPromise.org/donate.
Additionally, “One Night Without a Home” is a part of the collective event “A Day to Help the Homeless,” where the Coldwater community will also be getting together to giveaway soup dinners in bowls decorated by students. Meals will be available for takeout from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and delivered from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Representing over $227 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.
BlueOx Credit Union Announces College Scholarship 2021, 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, two of which are named after retired Board Members, Jeffrey Stanton and Robert Harvey.” The winners are selected based on their excellence in academics and outstanding community service.
Jeffrey Stanton BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Ashley Keltsch
Ashley is a 2021 graduate of Loy Norrix High School, maintaining a 4.1 GPA. Ashley participated in the National Honors Society and the Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center for most of her high school career. Additionally, she was active in cross country and track throughout all four years of high school. Ashley is planning to continue her education at Hope College to study science.
Robert Harvey BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarship
Gabrielle Oursler
A 2021 graduate of Lakeview High School, Gabrielle maintained a 3.7 GPA. She was active throughout high school in the National Honor Society, Student Government, and DECA. She was the business manager for her school newspaper for all four years of her high school career. Gabrielle will be attending Michigan State University to study business management, marketing, and technology to pursue a career in Marketing.
BlueOx Credit Union Community Scholarships
Marlene Bussler
A 2021 graduate of Harper Creek High School, Marlene maintained a cumulative 3.9 GPA. Marlene played soccer, basketball, and golf at the varsity level for all four years of her high school career. She also participated as a Charitable Union Volunteer during her senior year. Marlene will be continuing her education at Grand Rapids Community College to study health sciences, with a future career in physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Andrew Hoban
Andrew is a 2021 graduate of Pennfield High School and maintained a 3.9 GPA throughout his high school career. For four years, he participated in basketball and football and served as the captain for the lacrosse team for three years. Andrew also served as Student Government Secretary for four years and was the National Honor Society Vice President for the last two years. Additionally, he participated in numerous volunteering activities, such as food banks and The Salvation Army. He is pursuing his education in the health sciences field at Davenport University, with a future career in nursing.
Romello Thompson
After graduating from Battle Creek Central High School in 2021, Romello maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.6. He participated in the National Honor Society, the Kellogg Community College Trio Upward Bound program, and Link Crew during his high school career. Romello will be continuing his education at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, to study and major in finance as a first-generation college student.
Anahi Villeda
A 2021 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School, Anahi maintained a 3.4 GPA. She participated in the National Honor Society as Vice President and was engaged in the Hispanic Student Union for the last two years of her high school career. She was actively engaged in other school activities, such as the marching band and girls’ soccer. Anahi will be attending Michigan State University in the fall, studying business management, marketing, and technology to pursue a career in business as a first-generation college student.
Representing over $228 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.
Steve Cobb, President, and Chief Executive Officer congratulate BlueOx Credit Union 2021 Community Scholarship Recipients (shown left to right): Ashley Keltsch, Marlene Bussler, Romello Thompson, Steve Cobb, Anahi Villeda, Gabrielle Oursler. Missing from photo: Andrew Hoban
Coldwater Branch Lobby Reopening Soon!
We are pleased to announce that BlueOx Credit Union is now moving into the final phase of our reopening plans with the opening of our Coldwater Branch lobby!
As we prepare to welcome members back to our Coldwater Branch lobby on April 19 – in accordance with federal, state, and local government guidelines and recommendations – this brings us to the final phase of our reopening plans, and all six BlueOx Branch lobbies will now be open to serve your financial needs. Thank you for your patience and loyalty as we worked together during COVID-19 to keep our members, employees, and communities safe and healthy. Please read on to learn more about what to expect when our Coldwater doors open.
Looking for Your Stimulus Payment and Some Spectacular Ideas and Savings to Get a Head Start on the Spring Season?
With a third round of stimulus payments coming soon, we are sharing important information about timing and amounts; as well as our 24/7/365 Digital Banking solutions to check for Direct Deposits, inquire about balances, and make transfers; and options for everything you need for spectacular spring season!
Sterling Heights and Albion Branch Lobbies Reopening Soon!
We are pleased to announce that BlueOx Credit Union is now moving into the second phase of our lobby reopening plans.
The second phase begins with the reopening of our Sterling Heights Branch on March 15* and Albion Branch on March 22* in accordance with federal, state, and local government guidelines and recommendations.
As a reminder, the first phase began with the reopening of our Battle Creek and Portage Branches on March 1 and Jackson Branch on March 3. Please check your email to stay up-to-date with our reopening plans.
*Dates are tentative and subject to change.
Coming Soon – Branch Lobby Reopening and a New, Enhanced Service Experience! - 2/5/2021
We are pleased to announce that we are preparing a plan to welcome you back into our lobbies early this spring. The plan includes different phases that will carefully reopen our branches while ensuring the well-being and safety of our members, employees, and communities. The first phase begins with the reopening of our Battle Creek and Portage Branches on March 1* and Jackson Branch on March 8* in accordance with federal, state, and local government guidelines and recommendations. We are also excited to unveil a new, enhanced service experience coming June 1.* Read below for all the details, and stay tuned to your email, BlueOXcu.org, and our social media sites for future communications and more information coming soon.
*Dates are tentative and subject to change.
Stimulus Check Update - 12/30/2020
- ACH Stimulus payments are starting to arrive. If you don’t see your pending deposit today, please check back tomorrow.
- If you would like to be automatically notified when your stimulus check arrives, you can sign up for our free ACH Deposit eAlerts within Online Banking. When an ACH deposit comes in, you will receive an email and/or text alert.
- For more information or to check the status of your stimulus payment, visit the IRS website for the most up-to-date information.
Looking for Your Second Stimulus Payment? - 12/23/2020
With the recent COVID-19 Executive Order now extended to January 15 and a second stimulus payment coming soon, we are sharing our 24/7/365 convenient, easy-to-use, safe, and secure social distancing banking solutions that you can use from the comfort of your home – online or from any mobile device.
BlueOx Credit Union CEO Retires After More Than 45 Years of Service
BlueOx Credit Union announced that Fran Godfrey will be retiring as CEO of the Credit Union on January 31, 2021. Godfrey, who has been with the organization since 1974 and in her current role since 2008, has been involved with the Board of Directors in support of a successful transition.
COVID-19 Update - Important Member Announcement
Due to staffing changes impacted during this time as a result of the pandemic, our Jackson Branch is temporarily closed today, Wednesday, November 11. Please visit our Albion location for the nearest BlueOx in-branch or drive-thru service, or Shared Branching services are available at Aeroquip Credit Union in Jackson at 901 Plymouth Street or 501 Laurence Avenue until 5 p.m.
BlueOx Credit Union Celebrates International Credit Union Day and Inspiring Hope for a Global Community - 10/5/2020
Since 1948, International Credit Union Day is celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October to honor the spirit of the global credit union movement and recognize the positive impact credit unions have in our communities all year long. It is also a time to reflect, as well as take the opportunity to thank our members for their loyalty and for trusting their Credit Union.
“BlueOx Credit Union is passionate about people helping people. We want to do our part to take care of our team, our members, and our communities. We are proud and honored each year to inspire hope and provide financial advantages within our communities by enhancing financial literacy, furthering education, and improving the overall quality of life,” said Fran Godfrey, CEO of BlueOx Credit Union. “During a time of great uncertainty and crisis, such as COVID-19, it’s more important than ever that we come together to advance lives and take care of one another.”
Announcing Our Lobby Re-Opening Plans - Important Member Announcement – 10/1/2020
BlueOx Credit Union is now moving into Phase Five of our lobby re-opening plans, and we are excited to announce that our Battle Creek Branch lobby will be open to serve you on Monday, October 5. Although the stay-at-home order has been lifted, we are still operating in accordance with federal, state, and local government guidelines and recommendations.
Announcing Our Lobby Re-Opening Plans - Important Member Announcement – 8/6/2020
BlueOx Credit Union is now moving into Phase Four of our lobby re-opening plans, and we are excited to announce that our Jackson and Sterling Heights Branch lobbies will be open to serve you on Monday, August 10. Although the stay-at-home order has been lifted, we are still operating in accordance with federal, state, and local government guidelines and recommendations.
Important ScoreCard Rewards Notice for Members With BlueOx Credit Cards Beginning With 4867
The first Visa Credit Card member statement that is generated following the upcoming Credit Card conversion (on 9/1/20 for August activity), will not include ScoreCard point balances. To view point balances during this transition, please log in to ScoreCard Rewards. Statements as of 10/1/20 and beyond will include point balances. We apologize for any inconvenience. Please reach out with questions at (800) 648-8035.
New Face Mask Requirements Under Governor's Executive Order – 7/13/2020
Thank you for your membership and patience as we continue to navigate this pandemic together. To comply with the Governor’s new Executive Order 2020-147, beginning Monday, July 13, we ask that all members join the BlueOx Team in helping to keep our communities safe by wearing a face mask while inside our branch lobbies.
Announcing Our Lobby Re-Opening Plans - Important Member Announcement – 7/9/2020
BlueOx Credit Union is now moving into Phase Three of our lobby re-opening plans, and we are excited to announce that our Albion Branch lobby will be open to serve you on Monday, July 13. Although the stay-at-home order has been lifted, we are still operating in accordance with federal, state, and local government guidelines and recommendations.
As a reminder, Phase One began on June 1 with the reopening of our Portage Branch lobby, and Phase Two began on June 15 with the reopening of our Coldwater Branch lobby. Please check your email or visit: blueoxcu.org/news-and-events to stay up-to-date with our re-opening plans.
BlueOx Credit Union Donates Personal Finance Curriculum to Parchment High School
BlueOx Credit Union is donating Ramsey Solutions’ Foundations in Personal Finance curriculum to Parchment High School. Foundations in Personal Finance is the premier curriculum for teaching financial literacy to students.
Announcing Our Lobby Re-Opening Plans - Important Member Announcement – 6/11/2020
BlueOx Credit Union is now moving into Phase Two of our lobby re-opening plans, and we are excited to announce that our Coldwater Branch lobby will be open to serve you on Monday, June 15. Although the stay-at-home order has been lifted, we are still operating in accordance with federal, state, and local government guidelines and recommendations.
BlueOx Credit Union Announces College Scholarship Recipients
“Education paves the way for continued growth. By investing in scholarships for our youth, we are investing in a better future for our community,” said BlueOx Credit Union CEO Fran Godfrey, “so we are pleased to help these BlueOx Credit Union members along their educational path with six $1,000 scholarships, two of which are named after retired Board Members, Jeffrey Stanton and Robert Harvey.” The winners are selected based on their excellence in academics and outstanding community service.
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE - Important Member Announcement – 5/28/2020
We are preparing a plan to welcome you back into our lobbies. The plan includes different phases that will carefully reopen our branches in order to ensure the well-being and safety of our members, employees, and communities. The first phase begins on June 1 with the reopening of our Portage Branch in accordance with federal, state, and local government guidelines and recommendations.
CORONAVIRUS AND MERGER UPDATE - Important Member Announcement – 5/8/2020
As your solid and trusted financial partner, the well-being and safety of our members, employees, and communities are our highest priorities and will continue to be at the heart of every decision we make during this challenging time. In response to the recent extension to May 28 of Governor Whitmer’s stay-at-home Executive Order for residents in the state of Michigan, as well as the upcoming final process of the merger between BlueOx Credit Union and Bi-County PTC Federal Credit Union, we are providing this important update to assure you that BlueOx Credit Union is still here for you and your money is safe.
You can trust your Credit Union! A message from the Board of Directors – 4/17/2020
We are proud to be your trusted financial partner, and we want you to know that we're in this together — not just the health crisis but all that is to come in the weeks and months ahead. Just like you, we're members of BlueOx Credit Union. We're rate-watchers, homeowners, borrowers, savers, and electronic banking users. We know our products and services because we use them, just like you.
Wondering about your stimulus payment? Learn about eAlerts, social distancing banking solutions, and more! – 4/11/2020
With the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order now extended to April 30 and stimulus payments coming very soon, we are sharing our 24/7/365 convenient, easy-to-use, safe, and secure social distancing banking solutions that you can use from the comfort of your home – online or from any mobile device.
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE – Important Member Announcement – 3/31/2020
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, the state of Michigan ordered residents to remain at home and temporarily suspend in-person operations that are not necessary to sustain or protect life beginning March 24, 2020.
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE – Important Member Announcement – 3/23/20
As your solid and trusted financial partner, the well-being and safety of our members, employees, and communities are our highest priorities and will continue to be at the heart of every decision we make during this challenging time. In response to the March 23 announcement of Governor Whitmer’s “stay-at-home” Executive Order for residents in the state of Michigan, we are providing this important update to assure you that BlueOx Credit Union is considered an essential service during this crisis – we are here for you, and your money is safe.
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE – Important Member Announcement – 3/17/20
As your solid financial partner, the well-being and safety of our members, employees and communities are our highest priorities, and will be at the heart of every decision we make during this challenging time. We continue to closely monitor the COVID-19 public health situation and are providing this important update regarding changes we are implementing based on the latest guidance and best practices from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO).
Important Message About Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Updated 3/16/20
BlueOx Credit Union’s top priority is the health and wellness of our members and employees. As we continue to monitor reports of the potential impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), we want to assure you that BlueOx Credit Union is here to serve your financial needs. Our branches and contact center remain open to serve you without interruption.
BlueOx Board Member Retires After More Than 42 Years of Service – 3/9/20
Long-time BlueOx Credit Union Board Member, Jeffrey Stanton, is retiring from the volunteer Board of Directors at the end of his term in April. A BlueOx member since 1968, Jeff has served in various volunteer positions since 1978, including Board Chairman (1986 to present), Executive Committee, Building and Equipment Committee, ALM/Budget Committee, Personnel Committee, and Nominating Committee. He has participated in many board-related training sessions through the Michigan Credit Union League, CUNA, and the Educational Credit Union Council.
To put it in perspective, when Jeff came on Board in 1978, BlueOx Credit Union (then known as School Employees Credit Union) had three branches, 5,986 members, and more than $10 million in assets. Currently, BlueOx has seven branches, 24,060 members, and $188 million in assets.
“Jeff’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 CEO Fran Godfrey. “His dedication to us has been vital to our success.”
Debit Card Fraud Alert Update – 2/13/20
For our members’ security and protection, we are continuing to monitor Debit Card fraud. Most recently, we have experienced a few cases in the state of Arizona. Our highest priority is to safeguard your money and personal information, therefore, we have placed a block on the highest-risk categories in Arizona, including but not limited to: restaurants, video games, automated fuel dispensers, and medical/hospital facilities. Our security measures are intercepting many of these fraudulent transactions and placing temporary blocks on accounts until the member is contacted and transactions are validated. Again, we apologize for this inconvenience while investigations ensue and will continue to communicate updates as they are provided. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact us by text or phone at (800) 648-8035.
Debit Card Fraud Alert Update – 2/3/20
For our members’ security and protection, we have been advised by our card vendor to block the state of California for Debit Card use due to unknown multiple source Debit Card fraud. Initially, this block included eCommerce and preauthorized payments, including but not limited to Netflix, Hulu, Cash App, Google, Facebook, PayPal, Lyft, Play Station, eBay, Airbnb, DoorDash, and more. For our members’ convenience, these merchants have recently been removed from the block and should now be working for you. Additionally, members who are physically in California may use ATM machines to access cash funds.
We highly recommend that you also take steps to protect your account by closely monitoring your account online and reviewing monthly statements to ensure they match your records. If you detect suspicious activity, notify the Credit Union immediately. You may also conveniently report fraud online at: blueoxcu.org/report-fraud. Additionally, you can monitor and manage your card activity for free anytime – from anywhere with BlueOx Credit Union Card Controls. Learn more: blueoxcu.org/card-controls. The Credit Union also offers an Identity Theft Resolution service called IDProtect® Plus for a nominal monthly fee that will assist you in defending your family, identity, and credit. Learn more: blueoxcu.org/idprotect. The Credit Union also provides a wealth of security and fraud information on our website at: blueoxcu.org/member-security.
This is an unfortunate issue that has affected multiple financial institutions. Our highest priority is to safeguard your money and personal information. We want to assure you that we are taking every step necessary to ensure your information is protected. You can feel secure knowing that the Credit Union will never ask for social security numbers or other personally identifiable information from you over the phone or via email. Please use extreme caution and be wary of scams. Again, we apologize for this inconvenience while investigations ensue and will continue to communicate updates as they are provided. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact us by text or phone at (800) 648-8035.
Bi-County PTC Federal Credit Union Merges with BlueOx
A merger between Bi-County PTC Federal Credit Union (BCPTCFCU) and BlueOx Credit Union is moving forward after ratification by members of BCPTCFCU on September 26, 2019.
BlueOx Credit Union Supports Movember and Men's Health Issues
Last month, BlueOx Credit Union and its members participated in raising awareness of Men’s Health Issues by making a generous donation to the American Cancer Society.
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