Community First Credit Union

Community First Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative that prioritizes people over profits. Founded in 1961 by seven local teachers who were denied home loans by banks, the institution has a strong focus on supporting its members and the communities it serves. Following a merger with Mendo Lake Credit Union in 2017, Community First expanded its service area to include five Northern California counties. Unlike traditional banks, the credit union ensures that locally earned dollars remain in the local economy, benefitting the surrounding community. Community First Credit Union stands out as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and a Juntos Avanzamos credit union, underscoring its commitment to serving local communities. As a financial cooperative, it reinvests any potential profits back into its members and the cooperative itself, facilitating advancements such as next-gen ATMs, new online conveniences, and additional branches. This approach contrasts sharply with traditional banks, where the primary focus is typically on raising stock prices, often at the expense of customers. Community First Credit Union's dedication to its members and the local economy positions it as a viable and socially responsible alternative within the financial services and banking industries.