The primary reason for this merger is to enhance the services, benefits and convenience to members of both credit unions and the communities we serve. We have a fiduciary responsibility to do what is in the best interest of our membership. We believe this merger will allow two strong and successful credit unions to thrive for generations to come. By joining together, we will enhance the value of our organization and allow for a collaboration of our resources. Together, our members’ service experience will be enhanced in ways not possible before.

Community 1^st Credit Union evaluated possible partners, and selected Harborstone Credit Union because of its excellent reputation for member service, its strong financial position, and its expansive list of products and services.

Harborstone Credit Union has 16 branches throughout the Puget Sound region and shares our commitment to support the communities we serve.

Community 1^st values are rooted in treating members and employees with integrity and respect. We are committed to providing exceptional member service, while maintaining the safety and security of our members’ assets and information. The credit union believes in operating from a position of financial strength and discipline, to achieve controlled growth and sustained profitability for the benefit of our members.

 Merger Benefits:

• More products, services and branches to better serve member needs.
• Ability to compete with large financial institutions while maintaining a local presence.
• The cohesive partnership of our credit unions, due to our similar core values and beliefs.

• Support and engagement in the credit union movement; ability to build our collective profile and impact.
• Strengthened long-term viability.

The two entities will unite under the name Harborstone Credit Union. After regulatory approval, the newly merged credit union will come together to evaluate market opportunities to ensure a future that is reflective of the combined memberships and its needs.

The President & CEO of the merged credit union will be Geoff Bullock, current President & CEO of Harborstone Credit Union.

The phrase “Once a Member, Always a Member” still applies, with the same rights and privileges.

Credit Union mergers require approval from regulators and a membership vote. In the coming months, we will provide additional information on this process and timelines.

Yes, your deposits are federally insured to at least $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government agency and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States Government.

Yes. Community 1st Credit Union employees will continue to serve the membership with the same friendly member service and personal touch you receive today.

No. Not until the conversion between systems is complete. Stay tuned for additional details to be shared. In the meantime, CO-OP shared branching locations are available. Visit https://www.coop.org/Shared-Branch-ATM for a full list of locations.  

We will make every effort to minimize the disruption to our members. Look for future communications that will include specific information about any changes you can anticipate. Our intentions are to keep you informed along the way and make this transition as seamless as possible.

Harborstone Credit Union will honor all terms and conditions that were established when share certificates and IRA certificates and loans were issued to members.

We do not expect any interruption to your electronic services such as direct deposit and automatic withdrawals. Look for future communications that will include specific information about any changes to your accounts or electronic services. Our intentions are to keep you informed along the way and make this transition as seamless as possible.

Yes. Continue to utilize your current checks, debit card and/or credit card until advised differently.

Not at this time. Continue to access your current online banking system through the website and mobile app. Look for future communications that will include specific information about any changes to your accounts or electronic services. Our intentions are to keep you informed along the way and make this transition as seamless as possible.

For additional information please contact: [email protected].