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HIGH POINT FCU DONATES $7,000 TO LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES

High Point FCU has donated $7,000 to support seven local food pantries in their field of membership during the holiday season. This donation reflects the credit union’s dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of their members and exemplifies their community-focused approach to business.

The Olean Food Pantry, Creekside Chapel, Portville Community Food Pantry, Harvest Field Outreach Center, CAC Food Pantry, Salvation Army of Bradford Food Pantry, and Hinsdale Ischua Food Pantry each received $1,000 donations.

“Our commitment to community remains steadfast,” said Rich Yeager, President & CEO. “Through our continued collaboration with local food pantries, we aim to create a lasting impact on those facing food insecurity, reinforcing the strength that comes from people helping people.”

High Point FCU is the 2nd largest credit union in Western New York, with assets of over $400 million. The credit union currently serves over 20,000 members with four branch locations, 1201 Wayne Street and 206 North Clark Street in Olean, 180 West Main Street in Allegany, and 160 South Main Street in Portville.

Rogers named to High Point Federal Credit Union’s Board of Directors.

Olean, NY – High Point Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the appointment of Dominic Rogers to the organization’s Board of Directors.

Bringing a wealth of expertise from the IT industry, Rogers will contribute significantly to High Point as he begins his new role as a board member.

Currently, Rogers holds the position of Vice President and Director of IT at Cutco Corporation, where he has dedicated over 30 years. His previous board roles include the Renodin Foundation, Jamestown Community College Foundation, and Universal Primary Care. He is also a graduate of Leadership Cattaraugus.

“We are excited to leverage Dominic’s expertise and his knowledge and deep connections within our communities,” said High Point FCU Board Chair Michele Pancio. “I am grateful for all of our board members’ commitment to fulfilling High Point’s mission to provide personal service and affordable products that meet member’s financial needs throughout life’s journey.”

Serving as member advocates, High Point FCU’s volunteer Board of Directors work closely with the credit union’s leadership team to set policy, monitor risk and guide the execution of the organization’s strategic plan.

Rogers is an alumnus of Jamestown Community College, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, and St. Bonaventure University. He resides in Olean with his wife, Jennifer. They have two children, Luciano and Mia.

High Point FCU Breaks Ground at New Branch in Bradford.

Olean, NY – High Point Federal Credit Union broke ground Wednesday at its future branch location in Bradford, PA. The new branch, located at 1035 East Main Street in Foster Brook, is slated to open during the 1st quarter of 2025. The new full-service branch will feature loan, teller and membership services as well as 24-hour ATM access.

The new location is designed to better accommodate High Point FCU’s growing membership base within the Bradford area.

Rich Yeager, CEO stated, “We are eager to extend our services to our members in this new area and provide affordable financial products to support them on their financial journey. This groundbreaking symbolizes growth, progress, and our commitment to serving this wonderful community.”

High Point FCU Awards Scholarships to Collegebound Seniors.

Olean, NY – High Point Federal Credit Union has granted $2,000 in college scholarships to four high school seniors to assist them in funding their higher education.

The recipients, who are members of High Point FCU, were selected based on their exceptional academic and extracurricular accomplishments.

Richard Yeager, CEO, expressed his anticipation each year to meet the students and present them with their well-deserved scholarships. He emphasized that this highlights the essence of the credit union movement’s philosophy of ‘people helping people.’

The high school seniors who were honored with the scholarships include Mia Giannicchi, Emma Jankowski, and Jesse Decker from Allegany-Limestone High School, and Grace Haynes from Olean High School.

In addition to the High Point FCU Scholarship, Mia Giannicchi, Emma Jankowski, and Jesse Decker also received scholarships through the New York Credit Union Association. Mia was granted an extra $1,250, while Emma and Jesse each received an additional $250.

High Point FCU Brings Mad City Money to Salamanca Seniors

High Point Federal Credit Union staff shared their Mad City Money program with Salamanca High School with almost 90 seniors participating in this program. The Credit Union (CU) first implemented Mad City Money in 2013, presenting the program in Olean and Allegany high schools.

Originally purchased through the Credit Union National Association (CUNA), Mad City Money is a financial education tool that helps high schoolers get a taste of the “real world.” Students get to choose an “identity” at the start of the program, where they’re given an occupation, salary, spouse & children, student loan & credit card debt, and medical insurance payments. They then have to visit various stations to decide on what housing, transportation, childcare, food, and other necessities to purchase while staying within their budget.

Students learn how to calculate their credit card monthly payment, practice writing a check, experience unexpected bills – as well as unexpected financial gains, and discover how much they can actually afford with their given “identity.” While some of the students had money left over at the end to put in their savings, many had to return to certain stations to switch out their purchase for something more affordable. When asked what the main takeaway of this program was for the students, they reiterated a better understanding of their parents’ spending habits, a realization of how expensive living in the “real world” is, and the importance of paying off debt. Being able to experience these scenarios in a controlled way provides students with a level of financial wisdom they likely wouldn’t have otherwise.

High Point FCU Donates $7,000 to Local Food Pantries

High Point FCU has donated $7,000 to support seven local food pantries in their field of membership. As a community-focused credit union, High Point FCU is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of their neighbors. The Olean Food Pantry, Creekside Chapel, Portville Community Food Pantry, Harvest Field Outreach Center, CAC Food Pantry, YWCA of Bradford, and Hinsdale Ischua Food Pantry each received $1,000 donations.

“We believe in the power of community and the importance of lending a helping hand,” said Rich Yeager, President & CEO. “By partnering with these local food pantries, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families facing food insecurity.”

High Point FCU would like to thank the dedicated staff and volunteers at the food pantries for their tireless efforts in serving the community. Their commitment to making a difference is inspiring.

High Point FCU is the 2nd largest credit union in Western New York, with assets of over $400 million. The credit union currently serves over 20,000 members with four branch locations, 1201 Wayne Street and 206 North Clark Street in Olean, 180 West Main Street in Allegany, and 160 South Main Street in Portville.

High Point Federal Credit Union Installs Life-Saving AED Machines and Certifies Staff in CPR

Recently, High Point Federal Credit Union took an important step towards safeguarding the health and well-being of their members and staff by installing life-saving AED machines in all their branch locations and operations center. A sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, but with an AED on hand, the heart’s rhythm can be analyzed, and if necessary, an electric shock can be administered, which can help re-establish an effective rhythm.

To complement the installation of AED machines, over 35 High Point FCU staff members have become certified in CPR and AED in accordance with the American Heart Association (AHA) training program. “We have many people coming in and out of our branches daily. Considering most cardiac arrests happen away from hospitals, having our staff trained and these machines available will provide life-saving support in the event someone experiences a major medical emergency,” said Rich Yeager, President & CEO.

Funding for the project was received through the New York Credit Union Foundation’s IMPACT Grant, which helped cover the costs of implementation. The foundation supports credit union efforts in various areas, including technology enhancements, security upgrades, and efforts to support emerging and underrepresented markets.

Olean Area Federal Credit Union Announces New Name: High Point Federal Credit Union!

Olean Area Federal Credit Union, the second largest credit union in Western New York, has announced a name change to High Point Federal Credit Union. By changing its name, the credit union is demonstrating its ongoing commitment to growth and to its mission to provide members personal service and affordable products that meet their financial needs throughout life’s journey. The High Point brand, including a new logo, tagline, and visual identity, launched August 1st. The change in brand does not reflect a change in ownership and will remain 100 percent member owned and headquartered in Olean, NY.

A site has been found for the credit union’s first site outside Allegany County, aiming to serve the Bradford community. “We’re under contract, and we hope to close this year,” Rich Yeager, President and CEO said, with construction expected to begin in the spring.

Olean Area FCU has grown throughout its 50 years of service, beginning in 1972 as Olean Dresser Clark Federal Credit Union, serving the employees of Dresser Clark. Today, they have evolved and expanded their service to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Allegany and Cattaraugus Counties, NY, and McKean and Potter Counties, PA.

Although the name change took effect on August 1st, services for members will not change. Members will continue to access account information and their normal products and services in the same way they always have. All existing account numbers, card products, and checks will continue to work as before. Member’s will be required to update their Digital Banking App, but all credentials and navigation will stay the same. All credit and debit cards will still work as they should until new cards are reissued during the first quarter of 2024.

President and CEO, Rich Yeager stated, “Although our brand name changed, our core values and commitment to our members remain the same. In fact, it’s even stronger. Our mission continues to be to provide optimal financial services at every stage of your life, always striving for your success. We are excited for the next chapter of our journey and are grateful for our members’ and communities’ support!”

The credit union’s purpose to provide personal service and affordable products will remain the top priority throughout this transition and beyond. Members will start to see communications, updated materials, and additional operational information in the coming weeks as the name change takes effect.

Olean Area Federal Credit Union Awards Scholarships to Collegebound Seniors

Olean, NY – Olean Area Federal Credit Union has awarded $2,000 in college scholarships to four high school seniors to help finance their college education.

The students, who are members of Olean Area FCU, were chosen based on their outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements.

“Each year, I look forward to meeting the students and awarding them with their well-deserved scholarships.” said Richard Yeager, CEO “This year was especially exciting, as we were able to provide scholarships to students from 3 different schools in our field of membership.”

The high school seniors who received the awards were: Madison Callen of Allegany-Limestone, Fransisca Childs of Hinsdale, Ella Malogrino of Oswayo Valley, and Ellie Strade of Allegany-Limestone High School.

In addition to the Olean Area FCU Scholarship, Madison Callen, Fransisca Childs, and Ella Malogrino were also awarded scholarships through the New York Credit Union Association, receiving $750 each.

Olean Area FCU Announces Promotions & New Hire

Olean Area Federal Credit Union (FCU) recently promoted four employees to Management positions and one to a Director roll. The Credit Union has also appointed a new Director of Human Resources (HR). “The promotion of these employees was an essential next step, as both their individual responsibilities and our company as a whole continue to grow,” said Rich Yeager, President & CEO.

Kelly Fernandez was promoted to Portville Branch Manager. Kelly joined Olean Area FCU in February of 2022 with over 20 years of banking and credit union experience. Her diverse knowledge in teller, phone/member service, lending, and supervisory responsibilities provide the skillset necessary to succeed in this position.

Melissa Pawlowski has been promoted to Retail Lending Manager. She began her career with Olean Area FCU in April of 2013, as a Member Service Representative. She quickly advanced to Retail Lender and in 2020, Melissa earned the promotion to Retail Lending Supervisor. Melissa is responsible for leading the retail lending team and assisting members with their lending needs. In addition, she manages the credit union’s secondary market mortgage program, is a voting member of the Credit Union’s Directors Loan Committee, and directs the Credit Unions Second Review of Declined Loans for Fair Lending practices.

Jacob Piatko was promoted to Facilities & Security Manager. Jake began his career with the CU in 2020 as our Security Administrator. Jake is a graduate of Kent State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration, majoring in Computer Information Systems. Jake came to us with over 14 years of experience including It Technician, Infrastructure Technician, Infrastructure Administrator, Network Administrator and most recently as our IT Security Administrator. He also leads our Physical Security Committee.

Stewart Fuller has been promoted to Facilities & Physical Security Manager. Stewart began his career with the CU in 2020 with over 20 years of experience in facilities, general contracting, security, and management responsibilities. Since joining the CU as Facilities & Security Supervisor, Stewart has proven his ability to secure our buildings and improve the safety of our employees through education and training. Stewart is lead on our Physical Security Committee and is also a key member of the CU Building and Planning Committee.

Michelle Freeman has been promoted to Director of Finance. She began her career with Olean Area FCU in 2011 as an Accounting Intern. After earning her Bachelor’s in Accounting, she began her role as Accounting Assistant. In 2013, she earned her Master’s Degree in Business Administration. She quickly earned promotions to Financial Analyst, Senior Financial Analyst, Finance Supervisor, and Finance Manager.

Tamara Warner was hired as our new HR Director. Tamara is a graduate of SUNY Fredonia with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in HR Management from Nazareth College. She is PHR Certified and has over 17 years of HR Management experience, most recently with PEKO Precision Products in Rochester.

Olean Area FCU is currently one of the largest and most respected full-service Credit Unions in Western New York with assets over 400 million. The credit union currently serves over 19,800 members with four locations, 1201 Wayne Street and 206 North Clark Street in Olean, 180 West Main Street in Allegany, and 160 South Main Street in Portville. 

Olean Area FCU Promotes Four to Executive Roles

Olean Area Federal Credit Union (FCU) has promoted four directors to Vice President positions. “Our Credit Union is committed to continuous improvement and expansion of our products and services to best meet the expectations our members deserve. Each of these key positions is being filled by professionals with extensive experience and I am confident they will be successful in their new roles,” said Rich Yeager, President & CEO.

Tonya Doxey has been promoted to Vice President of Compliance. She began her career with the Credit Union over 30 years ago as a Teller, quickly advancing to Assistant Head Teller. She was then promoted to Assistant Loan Officer, earning the promotion to Loan Officer in 2002. In 2005, Tonya was promoted to Member Service/Lending Coordinator, a position she held until 2009 when she became the Manager of Member Services. In 2012, Tonya changed focus and became the Manager of Compliance, with a promotion to Director in 2020. Tonya is responsible to ensure the credit union’s overall compliance with applicable rules, regulations, and statutory requirements, across all departments, Bank Secrecy Act, Due Diligence, Legal Notices, Audit and Security.

Joseph Leo has been promoted to Vice President of Information Technology. (IT) Joe joined the Olean Area FCU Team in 2019 as the first Director of IT. He is a graduate of Western Governor’s University with a bachelor’s degree in business and MBA in Information Technology Management. Joe joined our team with over 20 years of IT and Managerial experience, immediately elevating the strength and integrity of the IT Department. He will continue to oversee, plan and secure IT and infrastructure to meet present and future member needs using technology in improving our processes and expanding our services.

Michael Smith was promoted to Vice President of Lending. Mike is a graduate of SUNY Buffalo with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Prior to joining our team, Mike had over 8 years of banking experience which consisted of leadership development, credit analysis, and the title of Municipal Loan Officer.  Mike joined Olean Area FCU in 2014 as a Senior Commercial Lender, quickly earning the promotion to Manager of Commercial Operations/Senior Commercial Lender in 2016. His hard work and dedication to commercial members earned him the promotion to Director of Lending in 2021. Mike is responsible for the management and oversight of our Retail Lending, Commercial Lending, Loan Operations, Card Services, and Asset and Recovery Departments. His primary role is to direct and oversee all aspects of lending activity for the Credit Union and to ensure effective and efficient operations, quality of member service, and compliance with existing regulations and policies.

Audra Stevens has been promoted to Vice President of Operations. Audra is a graduate of St. Bonaventure University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration & Marketing. She joined the Credit Union team with over 20 years of Banking Management and Senior Management experience in areas of; Marketing and Sales, Branch Management, Operations, Regional Sales, and Banking Services. She joined Olean Area FCU in 2011 as the Manager of Sales and Marketing, earning a promotion to Director of Operations in 2019. Audra oversees the operation of our branch network and Marketing Department, to ensure efficient product and service delivery to our membership.

Olean Area FCU is currently one of the largest and most respected full-service Credit Unions in Western New York with assets over 400 million. The credit union currently serves over 19,800 members with four locations, 1201 Wayne Street and 206 North Clark Street in Olean, 180 West Main Street in Allegany, and 160 South Main Street in Portville. 

Olean Area Federal Credit Union Donates $7,000 to Food Pantries Throughout their Field of Membership

Olean, NY – With the increasing cost and continuous need for food in our communities, Olean Area FCU announced $7,000 in donations to seven food pantries within their field of membership, which includes Allegany and Cattaraugus Counties in New York, and McKean and Potter Counties in Pennsylvania.  

The YWCA of Bradford, CAC Food Pantry, Cuba Cultural Center, INC., Olean Food Pantry, Creekside Chapel, Portville Community Food Pantry, and Harvest Field Outreach Center each received $1,000 donations.

“With it being our 50th year of serving our communities, we felt one of the best ways we could say ‘thank you’ is by helping our neighbors have enough food this holiday season. We also wanted to make sure we included food pantries from each of the four counties we serve,” said Rich Yeager, President & CEO.

Olean Area FCU is the 2nd largest credit union in Western New York, with assets of over $400 million. The credit union currently serves over 19,800 members with four branch locations, 1201 Wayne Street and 206 North Clark Street in Olean, 180 West Main Street in Allegany, and 160 South Main Street in Portville.

Olean Area FCU Awards Scholarships to Collegebound Seniors

Olean Area Federal Credit Union has awarded $2,000 in college scholarships to four high school seniors to help finance their college education.

The students, who are members of Olean Area FCU, were chosen based on their outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements.

“As a community-focused institution, we are always looking for opportunities to give back.” said Richard Yeager, CEO “The Scholarship Program allows us the opportunity to give back to our younger members as they embark on their college careers.”

The high school seniors who received the awards were: Christy Childs of Hinsdale, Kaylee Rhinehart of Otto-Eldred, Sara Thomas of Olean, and Alexis Trietley – also of Olean High School.

In addition to the Olean Area FCU Scholarship, Christy Childs was also awarded scholarships through the Jamestown Credit Union Chapter and the New York Credit Union Association totaling an additional $1,500.

Olean Area FCU announces changes to Board of Directors

At Olean Area Federal Credit Union’s Annual Meeting, the financial institution’s volunteer Board of Directors announced new board appointments as well as two retirements.

Patrick Kelly, who served as Chairman of the Board since 1992, announced that he would step down from his Chair position but remain as a member of the Board of Directors. Michele Pancio, current board Vice-Chair was elected to the new Board Chair position. Michele joined the Olean Area FCU supervisory committee in 2006 and was appointed to the board in 2013. She was elected Vice-Chair in 2021. For over 30 years Michele has been co-owner of All American Financial Service and Insurance as well as Real Estate Development.

Current Board Member, Jason Crisafulli was elected as the new Vice-Chair. Jason joined the Olean Area FCU Education Committee in 2015 and was appointed to the board in 2018. Jason was the previous President of Kinley Corporation before his retirement. He also serves as Board President for the Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Allegany Planning Board.

Michele stated, “Serving the credit union on the Supervisory Committee and the Board these past sixteen years has been an honor.  I am looking forward to my new role as Board Chair and the opportunity to help guide Olean Area FCU into the future.” President & CEO, Rich Yeager added, “Michele has been an integral member of our board since the day she joined us and I’m confident in her leadership going forward. I would like to thank Pat for over 30 years of dedication to our credit union as Chairman and am certain he will continue to be an advocate for our members and communities in his new role.”

Along with these recent appointments, the Board also announced the retirement of two long standing Board Members, Glenda Hall and Jean McInroy. Glenda joined the board in 1983 and Jean in 2002. Both have been an essential part in the development and growth of Olean Area FCU. Rich Yeager, stated, “We sincerely thank Glenda and Jean for their years of service to our organization and the communities we serve. Their commitment has helped make our Credit Union what it is today.”

Olean Area FCU Brings Mad City Money to Cuba-Rushford Seniors

Cuba, NY. Olean Area Federal Credit Union staff were welcomed into the Cuba-Rushford school to share their Mad City Money program with nearly 65 high school seniors. The Credit Union (CU) first implemented Mad City Money in 2013, presenting the program in Olean and Allegany high schools. With a brief hiatus due to COVID-19, the credit union employees were excited for the opportunity to bring this program back to local youth.

Originally purchased through the Credit Union National Association (CUNA), Mad City Money is a financial education tool that helps high schoolers get a taste of the “real world.” Students get to choose an “identity” at the start of the program, where they’re given an occupation, salary, spouse & children, student loan & credit card debt, and medical insurance payments. They then have to visit various stations to decide on what housing, transportation, childcare, food, and other necessities to purchase while staying within their budget.

Students learn how to calculate their credit card monthly payment, practice writing a check, experience unexpected bills – as well as unexpected financial gains, and discover how much they can actually afford with their given “identity.” While some of the students had money left over at the end to put in their savings, many had to return to certain stations to switch out their purchase for something more affordable.

When asked what the main takeaway of this program was for the students, they reiterated a better understanding of their parents’ spending habits, a realization of how expensive living in the “real world” is, and the importance of paying off debt. Being able to experience these scenarios in a controlled way provides students with a level of financial wisdom they likely wouldn’t have otherwise.

Olean Area FCU is eager to bring Mad City Money to high schools in their expanded field of membership, which includes all of Allegany, Cattaraugus, McKean & Potter counties. For more information and to schedule Mad City Money at your school, email Marketing@oleanfcu.com or call (716) 372-6607.

OLEAN AREA FCU DONATES $4,000 TO FOOD PANTRIES

Olean, NY – With the giving spirit of the holidays and sense of community they hold year-round, Olean Area FCU announced a $4,000 donation to 4 local food pantries.

The Olean Food Pantry, Creekside Chapel, Loaves & Fishes, and the Portville Community Food Pantry each received $1,000 donations.

“As a credit union, giving back to our local food banks is one of the best ways we could think of to fulfill the credit union philosophy of, ‘people helping people’ this holiday season. We recognize the growing need for this vital service in our community and want to make sure it continues to be available to our friends and neighbors,” said Rich Yeager, President & CEO.

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