First American Credit Union, headquartered in Casa Grande, AZ, recently opened a new branch in Tse Bonito, NM.
Originally chartered in 1962 on the Navajo Nation, the credit union has grown to over 21,000 members in both Arizona and New Mexico. This is the second location in New Mexico for the working cooperative after they acquired the former Thunderbird Credit Union in Gallup in 1994.
The credit union purchased this location from Bank of America after the bank closed its branch in 2014. The working cooperative remodeled the facility and now provides a 4-bay drive-up service, walk-up ATM, safe deposit boxes and an Internet Café.
“We have laptops set up so members can research their own accounts,” Regional Branch Manager Becky Apel said. “They are also open inside from 9-2 pm on Saturdays in Gallup and Tse Bonito.”
Drawing from the history and pride of the nearby communities, the interior depicts cultural tones accented by three life cycle images surrounding the credit union’s vault.
The building, which will be dedicated to Joseph R. Hardy for his many years of distinguished service to First American, opened its doors in Mid-April and looks to have a formal dedication in the coming months.
First American Credit Union, who lives the “people helping people” philosophy, has invested over $100,000 in community partnerships since 2011.
The credit union, who employs over 50 employees, offers a variety of financial solutions to its membership — from personal loans to business and insurance services. The credit union thanks the community for its continued support and invites them to visit their new location.
Visit First American Credit Union Tse Bonito branch at: 1584 Highway 264, Tse Bonito, NM. (800) 759-9442.
Melinda Russell contributed to this story.