Milestone Magazine 3rd Quarter 2023

IN THIS ISSUE:

Letter From The President

Kindness 365

Community & Events

Quarterly Event Calendar Business Spotlight: Local Summer Favorites

What ONE Offers Businesses

Credit Health: Credit, Why Does it Matter to Me?

Fraud Protection: The Perils of Cashing Fraudulent Checks

Technology: Meet Penny!

Travel Notifications Explained

Youth: Teaching Your Child the Value of Money

Investments: What is CD Laddering?

Financial Insights: 2nd Quarter Financials

Branch Check-In

Reaching Each MilestONE Together

In our world today there are so many options when it comes to choosing your bank, financial institution, or credit union. With all the options available, it can be difficult to make the right choice, but at ONE we are committed to making banking simpler for everyone. Why have to worry about the complexity of your banking when you have so many other things in life to think about. At ONE, we were founded by people who believed in providing simple, affordable financial solutions to the communities it serves. We do something few still do, we deeply care about the people who make up our membership. From helping you achieve your biggest financial goals to helping you maximize your savings account, nothing gets us more excited than building genuine relationships to help you improve your financial well-being. It is that focus on people, not profit, that makes us different.

In the first quarter of 2023, The ONE Federal Credit Union’s assets grew to over $100 million and our membership continues to grow serving Crawford and Mercer Counties. We continue to make smart investments in services and technologies to fit our expanding membership & to bring the ONE experience to you wherever you are. The success of ONE is grounded in our ability to stay true to you.

By inspiring you to believe and endorse your financial cooperative, together, we can achieve great things. But the truth is, we can’t do it without you. Word of mouth is our best way to grow our financial cooperative. The more members we have, the more we can accomplish. Because of this, we invite you to refer a friend to The ONE Federal Credit Union. Spread the word and share with your neighbors, friends, and family the ONE…Banking but Better difference.

Heather Clancy-Young CEO/President

Since we started this program, Kindness 365 has spread in many ways throughout the community. From recycling our membership’s books to local daycares and nursing homes, to organizing donations to Meadville’s newly established Hayden House. You can read more about both of those monthly projects in Milestone’s previous issue. For now, read up on what the kindness of our membership has done to reach other areas of Crawford County!

Kindness is powerful in moving people to achieve greater things, whether you enact kindness on one person, an organization, or your community. It sparks positivity, which carries on from one person to the next. With that in mind, consider today how you can make a positive impact with kindness each new day. “Whether big or small, every act of kindness matters.”

APRIL - ANIMAL SHELTERS

In celebration of Animal Cruelty Prevention month, we collected donations from our membership for the Crawford County Humane Society. During our drop-off, Alex Sturtz, manager of CCHS, took the time to explain the needs of the animals they shelter, and even brought some of them out to explain behavior and the adoption process.

When considering adopting an animal, Alex gives this advice, “Be sure you know what you can commit to an animal before you consider adoption, especially dogs. Animals are like little humans. They require unique care and attention. They will need bathroom breaks, They will make messes. They likely will require some training. Cats are a little easier because they kind of do their own thing, but it’s still a big commitment. In many cases, they can live as long as 15-20 years, so be ready for a life-long family member.”

Crawford County Humane Society and the animals they shelter will always benefit from community support. Whether its shown through donations, adoption, visits, or overall awareness. If you would like to drop off donations of essential items such as dog and cat food (Purina being their preferred brand).

MAY - NURSING HOMES

In May, Kindness 365 partnered with our R.A.C.K Committee (Random Acts of Community Kindness) to give back to local nursing home residents. The R.A.C.K Committee organized nursing home care carts filled with goodies like puzzle books, board games, and back scratchers. May’s Kindness 365 mission invited members to write a kind note in the cards provided by our team. These cards were distributed to residents at Juniper Village and Crawford County Care Center, alongside their other goodies.

Brenda, co-chair of the R.A.C.K Committee who made distributions with Dianna to Juniper Village residents, illustrated the impact of the act of kindness in her own words, saying, “What an amazing experience. I cannot express enough how good it felt to be a part of this special day. One of these residents gave me a big hug, kissed me on the cheek, saying thank you. The ladies tried on hats and sunglasses, and chose an item or two from the cart. The best part was seeing all the smiling faces. Our members and our ONE team filled out cards of encouragement that we handed out as well. Everyone we handed the card to replied, ‘We need encouragement.’ This is when it hit me. I think sometimes, we get so caught up in our everyday lives that we find it difficult to take the time for others. We can make a difference, whether it be something as simple as a note/card or maybe even stopping by to say Hi.”

JUNE - CLEANUP DAY

Clean up day was initially scheduled for Saturday, June 24th. However, due to inclement weather, we had to schedule a rain check for Saturday, July 22nd. People that registered to volunteer were called and informed, but if for some reason you didn’t get our message, feel free to call in and ask for the details.

Lets Spread Kindness Together as One!

What community issues are you passionate about? Do you know of an organization or individual that would benefit from extra support? Let’s talk about it! Between our Kindness 365 mission and our community bulletin board, we can lend a helping hand.

Residents From Juniper Village.

Youth Month A Cause to Celebrate!

Youth Day was an exciting celebration for Youth members and nonmembers. With a total of 4 stations providing tattoos, stickers, balloons, prizes, crafts and snacks, there was something for everyone. Special entertainment was provided by Tree Family Party Piggies. Catering was provided by A Waffle Miracle Food Truck.

You can look forward to Youth Month with ONE annually. We’re excited to see what next year brings for youth in the community and how we can get them excited to save their money at their local credit union.

We give parents more than ONE reason to open their child a Youth Account with us. We making learning about money engaging by providing financial literacy resources for parents, teachers and kids, to engaging with the community and hosting events for youth regularly.

Open your child’s first Savings, Checking, or Graduation Growth Fund to give them a headstart on their journey to financial independence. We’ll answer all their banking questions, and yours too!

Maci “Picking a Pig” after opening her new account!

Kenslee & Sawyer with their prizes

Craft table with our Youth Members

A Waffle Miracle Food Truck

Maribeth & Perry from Tree Family Party Piggies

Tattoo, stickers & balloons station

04/22 05/06 05/16 05/25

HAYDEN HOUSE CLEANUP

After taking donations to Hayden House back in March for a previous Kindness 365 project, we learned that Hayden House needed assistance getting their building renovated. Our team quickly pulled together a volunteer group to lend a hand. Team member and volunteer, Stephanie, expressed her appreciation for Hayden House. “I think the Hayden House is going to be a huge asset to our community. Recovery is hard. Getting back on your feet after addiction can become very stressful. Being in recovery myself, it was very humbling to see the work they put into this project. Addiction is very active in our community, and I truly hope this will bring hope to others.”

SIP & PAINT BENEFIT

If you haven’t noticed, at ONE, we strongly prioritize community. Our Cochranton branch, including team members Sam, Stephanie, and Kara, took initiative to coordinate a sip & paint benefit that would strengthen their local community, while simultaneously bringing together families of the community, and local businesses. This sip & paint benefit raised funds for the Mia Strong Scholarship Fund, which will support Cochranton High schoolers for years to come. We thank our sponsors - Jennifer Biggs of State Farm, Last Stop Beverage, and The Chalk Shop - for their commitment to community and supporting our vision.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS FIELD DAY

For many years, ONE has been a proud sponsor of the Special Olympics. However, this year was especially exciting as it was our first time volunteering since pandemic restrictions were implemented. Helping out at the Softball Toss and Javelin Throw each year allows our team to direct and cheer on athletes of all ages. This was a firsttime experience for many of our team members, and the consensus was, “That was so much fun!” We’re looking forward to participating again in the years to come. Awesome job to those athletes!

FIRST DISTRICT TRACK & FIELD DAY

ONE had a great time volunteering at First District Elementary’s Track and Field day handing out refreshments to teachers and volunteers. It was a little windy, but that sunshine sure was nice! Great job to First District PTO for planning another successful field day, and an AWESOME job to all the kiddos that competed in events!

Donation for a New Slide at Saegertown Borough Playground

UPCOMING DATES

07.03.23

Member Cookout Day

Celebrate Independence Day with us at any one of our locations! We’re grilling out and soaking up the sun. Our team loves engaging in opportunities that allow us to connect with our members and show our appreciation. So, stop by your local branch for hotdogs, chips, and chat with us!

07.27.23

Annual Meeting

The Annual Meeting of The ONE Federal Credit Union will be held at The ONE Federal Credit Union, 868 Park Avenue, Meadville, PA, on July 27, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. The meeting is held for the following purposes: (1) elect two directors of the credit union and (2) to transact any other business that may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment of the meeting.

08.09.23

Cochranton Fair Parade

We’re looking forward to join the Cochranton Fair Parade once again. Planning to attend? Keep an eye out for ONE and we’ll toss you some goodies!

Independence Day JULY 4

Labor Day SEPT 4

Starting Your Own Business?

We can help with that!

At ONE, we pride ourselves on our commercial banking creativity.

With us, your goals are our goals! We understand each business is unique in its functions and values, so we focus on a personalized approach to our businesses’ needs. Over the years, we’ve established long-lasting relationships with many local businesses. We invite you to experience Banking... but Better with The ONE Federal Credit Union.

Need more from your business accounts and services? Well, here’s what we can offer you....

Stress and Fee Free Checking

The ONE Federal Credit Union offers our business clients free checking accounts along with a free Business Debit Card. Our goal is to take the stress out of your daily banking!

Customization

At The ONE Federal Credit Union, we know that not all businesses are the same. Our system allows you to add and remove accounts, as well as name accounts, however you see fit. Couple that with our efficient and easy-to-use online and mobile banking platform, and bookkeeping will never be easier!

Business Credit Cards

Low interest rates matched with incredible customer service allows your business credit card to work for you.

Commercial Lending Options

The ONE Federal Credit Union offers a wide array of lending options. Whether you need a commercial line of credit, a commercial vehicle loan, or anything in between, The ONE Federal Credit Union has the ability to tailor your lending options specifically to your business needs.

POS Systems

Our partnership with Elavon helps businesses of all shapes and sizes find the right POS system for them. Flexible options and lower pricing make this an ideal product for any business.

For more information, contact Dan Webster.

Dan Webster Jr. Executive of Relationship Management dwebster@onefcu.com 814-350-5915

Business Spotlight

OREA DESIGNS

Orea Designs, located in Meadville PA, specializes in Custom Artwork, Handmade Jewelry, Natural Body Care Products, and Creative Workshops. Its founder is a local art teacher and freelance artist. “All products are unique, one of a kind, pieces made by hand, with a natural bling and organic feel.” Orea jewelry and body care can be found locally at Riverside Brewing Co. Giftshop, Inspire Salon & Spa, and Lavender Blue at the Lake.

“When I first started my business, I knew immediately ONE FCU was going to be Orea Design’s home. I had been a member for years, but starting a business is a unique experience. Words can not begin to express how vital Daniel Webster was in this venture. He walked me through every detail, and explained the process every step of the way. He continues to be helpful, even years later as the business grows. I will always recommend ONE FCU for any and all banking needs.”

@designsbyorea Oreadesigns.etsy.com

HELLO SUNSHINE CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE

Hello Sunshine Children’s Boutique is definitely more than just a children’s store. We strive to keep our product affordable while offering unique items for children sized 0-6 years. Although our clothing sizes don’t go past 6T, we have many items for all ages! Our store has a place just for kids to hang out and color or read a book while parents shop, or just catch their breath.

We are open Tuesday - Saturday and closed on Sunday and Monday “We have quickly become part of this community and love it! It all started with ONE Federal Credit Union. The second I walked in, I knew they were going to be a great fit for this busy businesswoman. Dan had all of my accounts up and running in minutes. After listening to all of my bookkeeping strategies, he helped me come up with a plan that works perfect for me. Plus, the fact that I can reach out to Dan when I need something is a game changer. All of the employees are helpful, too! I can run up there before opening and they have me taken care of quickly and efficiently.”

@oreadesigns @HelloSunshineBoutiquePA

TREE FAMILY PARTY PIGGIES

Tree Family Party Piggies provide entertainment with Willow and Perry the mini pet pigs offering petting, feeding, and photo opportunities, along with tricks, a kissing booth, snout painting, and more! They book private parties like birthdays, family picnics, showers, and other celebrations. They also offer therapy pet services in libraries, schools, and nursing homes and entertain at community events in the greater Crawford County area. The mission of Tree Family Party Piggies is to delight people of all ages with a unique and interactive experience bringing joy to each event and creating memories that will last forever. “We loved our collaboration with ONE Federal Credit Union for their Youth Day! It was well organized and the youth who participated clearly enjoyed themselves! The staff was easy to work with and were so kind to our little family and our piggies. We love banking with ONE because they go above and beyond to make our banking experience hassle-free and are quick to help us with any problems. We also love having a personal touch with our business banking and feeling supported by people who care about the local community.” @treefamilypartypiggies

We Want to Feature Your Local Business!

We value the impact local business has on our community and we want to share your stories with our members. Reach out to our marketing department to learn how you can be featured in Milestone Magazine’s next issue!

Credit, Why Does it Matter To Me?

Welcome back! Now that we’ve covered what a credit report and score is comprised of, let’s take a deeper dive into why credit matters (or should matter) to you.

Many lenders follow a risk-based pricing approach to lending. Risk-based pricing is when lenders offer different borrowers different interest rates, or other loan terms, based on the borrower’s estimated risk that they will (or will not) repay their debts. Risk-based lending can allow institutions to meet the needs of their customers more effectively by being able to work with borrowers with a wider range of credit scores. Although rates paid by borrowers with less than

perfect credit histories are higher than rates paid by borrowers with strong credit histories, risked-based lending allows these members to obtain loans without paying excessive fees charged by alternative financial providers such as finance companies, rent-to-own stores, and pawnshops.

Now, let’s circle back and take a look at why credit matters to you. In the following examples, we’re going to look at how your credit score can affect your rate and therefore the total amount that you will end up repaying. You’ll see that someone with Excellent credit has the potential to earn a much lower rate than someone with Poor credit. As you can see, it pays off (literally) to be mindful of how you are paying your debts and how much debt (revolving and installment) you have outstanding.

If you currently have less than Fair credit, don’t give up! By the end of our three-part segment, you will have learned the key points to improving, maintaining, and monitoring your credit score. Remember, in our previous segment, “Credit, What is it?,” we learned the key factors that go into generating a credit score – payment history, amounts owed/credit utilization, length of credit history, credit mix, and new credit. In our next segment, we will learn more about how to check and monitor your credit bureaus.

And remember, at ONE Federal Credit Union, we are always more than happy to sit down with our members to discuss your credit and ways to improve it!

Marissa Webster Operations Supervisor

The Perils of Cashing Fraudulent Checks: Protecting Yourself

With the rapid advancement of technology, financial crimes have taken on new forms, including the circulation of fraudulent checks. While the allure of easy money may tempt individuals into cashing such checks, it is vital to understand the severe consequences and risks associated with these actions.

The primary motive behind fraudulent checks is to deceive unsuspecting victims into providing cash or goods before the fraud is discovered. By cashing a fraudulent check, individuals become complicit in the scam, often losing the entire amount of money they received in exchange.

So how is this being done? Fraudsters are using a variety of methods to find their victims. Some common ways are:

Phone Calls: Fraudsters may call individuals pretending to be from legitimate organizations, such as banks, government agencies, or tech support.

Social Media: Fraudsters may create fake profiles or impersonate someone known to the target on social media platforms. They may use these accounts to initiate contact, gain the target’s trust, and then attempt to extract personal or financial information.

Email Scams: Email is a popular method for fraudsters to contact people. They may send phishing emails that appear to be from reputable sources, asking recipients to provide sensitive information or click on malicious links. These emails

often mimic legitimate organizations, such as banks, social media platforms, or online retailers.

So, what happens next? Once they gain your trust, these fraudsters will then ask you to either cash/ deposit a check or give them your Mobile Banking Credentials so they may Remote Deposit a check for you. Once the check has been deposited, you the member, are asked to either: Purchase gift cards with the money and mail them to an address or read the numbers on the gift cards over the phone; or use an instant payments network such as Cash App, Zelle, or Venmo to move the money. Once you have done this there is no way to recoup the funds.

Financial institutions will then hold the depositor, you, liable for the funds withdrawn against a fake check, leaving you responsible for repaying the full amount. Moreover, the financial institution may impose penalties and close the account, making it challenging to secure future banking services.

Cashing fraudulent checks may appear tempting at first, promising quick financial gains. However, the dangers associated with this illegal activity far outweigh any short-term benefits. It’s important to note that fraudsters are constantly adapting their techniques, and new methods may emerge over time. To protect yourself from fraud, it’s crucial to be cautious, verify the legitimacy of any requests or offers, and never share personal or financial information with unsolicited or suspicious sources.

Jerrod Wilson Chief Information Officer

Meet Penny!

If you’ve had a chance to use the chat feature on our website, you may already be acquainted with our Smart Bot, Penny. To ensure our members get the information they need as quickly as possible, we’ve incorporated Penny into our online chat system. Don’t worry, you still have the option to speak with one of our team members, but if you need quick answers to questions like “what is my routing number?”, or “what are auto loan rates at?”. Penny will swiftly provide you that information.

For more complicated questions regarding your account, simply select “Talk to a human”, and one of our team representatives will be with you shortly.

Traveling? Why Turn on Travel Notifications?

Hooray for summer, and summer vacations! Whether you’re traveling for leisure, work, or an unplanned situation, here’s one thing you won’t want to forget: notifying your financial institution.

Why does my financial institution need to know I’m traveling?

One of the ways our fraud watch system determines possible fraudulent transactions is by location. If your card is used somewhere you don’t typically conduct purchases, fraud watch may block your card as a preventative action against the suspicious charge until the transation can be verified.

How does a travel notice help me?

Adding a travel notice to your account(s) will ensure that valid transactions during your trip are not flagged as suspicious and will keep your card from being blocked for that reason. Fraudulent transactions that may occur after you leave your travel destination(s) will be appropriately flagged.

What information do I need to provide for a travel notice?

We need to know what card(s) you intend to use during your trip. A travel notice set on one card will not automatically apply to your other cards. For example, if you set up a travel notice on your primary card, but not your joint debit card, your joint debit card will still be at risk of getting flagged and blocked if used at your travel destination. The same applies to credit cards.

If you’re driving, we need to know every state you plan to drive through. This also applies to any layovers you may have if you are flying. Additionally, we will need your start and end dates and your most up-todate phone number.

Bonus Tips & Advice:

Travel alerts can help you avoid a hassle. However, it is always a good idea to travel with an extra emergency card just in case! Aside from the possibility of your card getting blocked for fraud, there’s also the chance of it being physically stolen, lost, or damaged.

Adding travel alerts does not 100% guarantee that fraud watch will not contact you to verify a transaction due to the many other factors that may flag a transaction as suspicious. These are the same factors that apply even while at home.

If our fraud watch service does not contact you via text, phone, or email, they will ask certain identifying questions. However, they will never ask you for your full card number, expiration date, CVV or account number.

How to Set Travel Alerts:

1. Stop into any ONE FCU branch and inquire with one of our team members.

2. Call us during business hours. To reach the correct line, you can navigate our phone as such:

Option 2 - Debit and Credit Department

Option 1 - Credit Cards

Option 2 - Debit Cards

3. Set alerts through the app: Go to the dashboard

Select the 3 lines in the corner of your screen

Choose “Travel Notifications”

Fill out the prompts as specific as possible.

If you would like to ensure the travel alert has been added before your travel date, please contact us during our business hours Monday-Friday.

Christina Stallings Cards Associate

Teaching Your Child the Value of Money

One of the most important life skills you can teach your children is how to manage their own money. The sooner children begin financial education, the greater the likelihood they’ll avoid the mistakes many adults make today. The average per week allowance for American children is $30, according to the American Institute of CPAs. If parents help their children save and manage this money wisely, these young consumers will be better prepared to navigate the increasingly complex financial world as they grow older.

Educating your kids about money matters isn’t as hard as you might think. Here are some simple ways to start teaching your kids the value of money:

Open a savings account in your child’s name

Kids as young as five years old can begin to understand the idea of saving. It doesn’t matter how much money is deposited—what matters is creating a regular savings habit. Take your kids to the credit union with you and let them take an active role in saving. They’ll understand more than you think.

Set goals with your kids

Having a reason to save makes kids want to save. Their goals don’t have to be huge—for many kids, watching their money grow is a reward in itself.

Consider your child’s age and find appropriate ways to communicate

While it’s important to start early, make sure activities or discussions are age appropriate. Younger children learn through books, online activities and simple saving, while older children can create budgets and manage allowances.

Include older children in family financial planning meetings

Some parents feel uncomfortable talking about their budget or other money matters with their kids but letting them witness your habits before they are forced to make their own decisions gives kids a solid financial foundation.

Show kids your money values through your actions

Forget “Do as I say, not as I do.” Kids watch their parents and mimic their habits. If your money management habits are less than perfect, use this as an opportunity to educate yourself about financial matters, avd then share what you learn with your kids.

What is Certificate Laddering?

With interest rates so low, getting the most out of your savings can be a challenge. So how do you earn money from your savings without tying it up for years? Enter the magic of CD laddering.

Certificate Laddering

Also knowns as CD Laddering, is a great way to save and take advantage of higher dividend rates. Certificates differ from regular savings accounts in two ways:

1. The money you put into them cannot be touched for a fixed length of time and;

2. The interest rate doesn’t change for the length of the term.

The greater the amount of the certificate and the longer the term, the higher the dividend rate. To create a ladder, open a few certificates with different term lengths. For example, say you have $4,000 and decide to distribute the amount like this:

1. $1,000 in a 1-year certificate

3. $1,ooo in a 3-year certificate

2. $1,000 in a 2-year certificate

4. $1,000 in a 4-year certificate

Your certificate will automatically roll over to your regular share account, but you can then either transfer it to another account or open another certificate with a higher interest rate. That way, each year you’ll have the choice to either spend the money or use it to open a higher yield certificate.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING 2023

Notice is hereby given that the Annual Meeting of The ONE Federal Credit Union will be held at The ONE Federal Credit Union, 868 Park Avenue, Meadville, PA, on July 27, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. The meeting is held for the following purposes: (1) elect two directors of the credit union and (2) to transact any other business that may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment of the meeting.

Nomination for vacant positions may be made by petition. Petitions require signatures by 1% of the membership, or 118 members. If you would like to seek nomination by petition, please submit a signed certificate stating that you are agreeable to the nomination and will serve if elected. In addition, please include a biographical statement. The deadline for petitions is June 16, 2023. Please note that no nominations will be accepted from the floor and there will be no balloting if there is only one nominee for each vacant position.

The nominations received from the Nominating Committee and from petition will be posted in the credit union’s office and on the credit union’s website at least thirty-five (35) days before the annual meeting.

At least thirty days prior to the annual meeting, a printed ballot or notice of electronic ballot will be mailed to all members eligible to vote if there are sufficient nominations made by the nominating committee or by petition to provide more nominees than open positions. Each member must vote electronically or return their ballots no later than midnight on July 21, 2023 to be included in the balloting.

CHECKING IN WITH Your Branch Managers

Casey Carlson, Meadville

We are all enjoying this wonderful sunshine with summer rolling in here at Meadville. Come out and join us in beautifying our community. We are excited to host a community clean up Woodcock Lake Park on July 22nd 9am-11am. See you there!

Tristyn Mattern, Saegertown

Hey everyone, it’s time to put those summer plans into motion! Planning to stop in? Ask about our rates on RVs and Boats. We have a lot going on this summer including lots of community events. So, make sure you ask Dianna, Tina, or myself if you have any questions on how to get more involved and help your community grow to greater heights! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. Thank you from the Saegertown branch!

Melinda Danko, Conneaut Lake

We’re so excited Conneaut Lake is finally getting some sun! Whether you’re tanning, fishing, or just enjoying the weather, summer just feels better on a boat! Next time you’re in the branch, ask us about our rates on boat loans. Looking for some summer activities? Keep an eye on our Facebook for community events and more!

Samantha Hays, Cochranton

Summer is here and we are so excited to spend time out in our community. Need help with your community event? Stop in and chat with us. We’d love to discuss it with you! We may be able to volunteer, sponsor, or advertise!