Mercer County Credit Union Widens Charter

SHARON, Pa. – Mercer County Community Federal Credit Union experienced growth and upgrades during 2021 and expects more expansion in 2022.

The credit union received approval from the National Credit Union Administration for a community charter expansion. It now is authorized to offer membership to businesses and persons who live, work, worship or go to school in Mercer County, plus the surrounding counties of Crawford, Lawrence and Venango in Pennsylvania; and Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull in Ohio.

“The expansion of a credit union’s community charter to include surrounding counties, and especially across state lines, is an incredible opportunity for our credit union,” says Sandi Carangi, CEO. “We’re very excited to welcome members from this expanded community and share the benefits of credit union membership.”

In August, the credit union completed a technology upgrade, making the membership experience even better for its 11,000-plus members, she says.

“This exciting transition brought with it enhancements to member service, including the introduction of a new online banking platform with an updated bill pay system, electronic document signing, and online account opening,” Carangi says. 

Also last year, the Shenango Valley Chamber of Commerce honored the credit union with a 2021 Phoenix Award in the growth service category.

The award recognized the credit union’s $1 million renovation of its office in Sharon, Pa. The project included the addition of five offices, updated computer and phone systems, expanded drive-thru lanes and a larger open-concept lobby, according to Carangi.

Mercer County Community Federal Credit Union rounded out the year with the purchase of a vacant building adjacent to its branch in Hermitage, Pa., where future expansion is expected to take place.

“As the credit union continues to experience growth in membership and financial service offerings, plans for the utilization of the building will be determined during our strategic planning process in 2022,” Carangi says.

The credit union supports community programs such as financial literacy through partnerships with local nonprofit organizations, career fairs, and sponsorship of area school activities, she notes.

In addition, college scholarships are awarded annually to area high school students.    

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.