Everyone has a Story. This is ours.
Curious how UFirst FCU got it's start? Take a trip down memory lane with us as we share some of the most memorable moments from our history.
The Story of Us
1971: The Beginning
In 1971, SUNY Plattsburgh’s faculty and staff envisioned a place to save and borrow at fair rates. That dream became reality with the SUNY Plattsburgh Federal Credit Union—originally run from a briefcase by our first manager, Clara LaRose, during her lunch breaks (the briefcase is still at our Main Branch!). By 1973, we moved into our first official office in the Kehoe building. Since then, we’ve grown from serving SUNY staff to becoming a community-chartered credit union in 2002.
2006: The New Name
After becoming a community-chartered credit union, we realized we needed a new name to better connect with the community and reflect who we are—focused on our members, on you. That’s how SUNY Plattsburgh Federal Credit Union became UFirst Federal Credit Union. The “U” in our logo stands for University and, most importantly, putting you first.
2007: The Move
Growing larger and needing to serve our members in a more accessible location, UFirst FCU built it's first stand-alone branch just up the street from the college. We continue to serve our SUNY Plattsburgh members on campus with a convenient location inside the Angell College Center.
2009 & 2017: The Mergers
Over the years, UFirst FCU has joined forces with several smaller credit unions—but the merger with Northern Corridor Community FCU was a game changer. With one big push (and a lot of behind-the-scenes hard work), we literally doubled in size overnight—adding over 2,800 new members and significantly growing our assets. This merger opened the door for us to better serve members in the Northern Tier.
Then in 2017, we were excited to welcome the amazing staff and members of GP Community Credit Union into the UFirst family.
Today
Today, UFirst FCU keeps growing—one new member at a time—as more people discover the difference we make and the strong role we play in our community. You’ll feel the difference through our team—warm, welcoming, and here for you.
Why UFirst
Wondering what makes UFirst different? Think of us as your friendly financial partner, helping you live your best life. We might look like a regular bank from the outside, but step inside and you’ll feel right at home. Whether you’re chilling by the fire with some coffee or having a laugh with our team, you’ll find a community that’s all about supporting each other.
Our logo says it too—more than just a “U,” it’s a path full of possibilities waiting for you. So, what are you waiting for? Stop by and see the difference for yourself. That “U” isn’t just a letter—it’s all about you.
The CU Difference
While we offer many of the same products and services as banks, we’re actually quite different. Simply put, a credit union is a financial institution created to serve a group of people connected by a common bond. Back in 1971, UFirst FCU started by serving SUNY Plattsburgh’s faculty and staff. That was our original common bond, but over time we’ve grown to serve the communities in Clinton, Essex, and Franklin Counties in New York, plus Essex and Grand Isle Counties in Vermont.
As a not-for-profit, UFirst belongs to its members—not to distant shareholders. Any profits we make go right back to you through better rates, lower fees, and more services. Our Board of Directors is made up of volunteers from the community—your neighbors—who guide the credit union to keep growing and serving you in the best way possible.
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