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In This Issue
Letter From The President
Your Wish Is Our Command MAKE YOUR ONE WISH
750 Hours Of Service, Smashed!
Shape Up Your 2025 Finances
Calendar Of Events
Business Spotlights
JMG ENERGY AND EXCAVATING / TOOLCITY
PLUMBING / CAMPERLAND
Kindness 365
WRAPPING UP 2024
Kicking Off 2025 With Focus & Intention
As we usher in 2025, I want to take a moment to extend my heartfelt thanks for your continued trust and partnership. Reflecting on the past year, we are proud of what we have achieved together-strengthening our community, advancing our financial services, and supporting each and every one of you on your personal financial journeys.
2024 has been a year of growth and progress at ONE. We’ve enhanced products and services to meet your needs, enriched our digital offerings for greater convenience, and invested in our local community to ensure that our shared values of cooperation, empowerment, and care are alive and well. We are more committed than ever to providing financial solutions that help you live with confidence and security. As we step into the new year, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead. Our commitment to you remains strong, and we’re focused on:
Personalized Service
In 2025, we’re dedicated to enhancing the way we serve you by providing more personalized experiences. From customized financial advice to tools that make managing your accounts easier, our goal is to help you achieve your financial aspirations with a seamless and supportive approach. We want to ensure that every interaction is tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
Supporting Local Businesses
Our credit union is deeply invested in the success of our local community. We will continue to partner with and support small businesses, offering resources, funding, and networking opportunities that contribute to their growth. By nurturing these local enterprises, we help build a stronger economy and create more opportunities for everyone.
Upholding Our Values
We take pride in building a credit union that stays true to the values we share with you – creativity, quality, community and kindness. As we grow, we remain committed to fostering a culture that puts people before profit, ensuring that our decisions reflect the best interests of our members. We’ll continue working to ensure that every action we take strengthens the bond between our team, our members, and the communities we serve.
Growing Together, Reaching Further
One of our key missions for 2025 is to expand our footprint and extend our reach into rural and
underserved communities across Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio. We are committed to ensuring that even the most remote areas have access to the financial services they need to thrive. By deepening our presence in these regions, we aim to offer personalized, accessible banking solutions to individuals and businesses who may have limited options. This expansion is not just about growing our membership - it’s about empowering communities with the resources and support necessary for financial success, no matter where they are located.
Intentional Listening, Meaningful Connections
I also want to remind you that your membership gives you the opportunity to influence how we grow and evolve. Our intention is to always be receptive to your feedback, and we welcome your thoughts to help us serve you even better. We are committed to connecting with those we serve on a personal level, understanding your unique needs and building lasting relationships.
On behalf of the entire team at ONE, I wish you a healthy, prosperous, and fulfilling 2025. We are truly grateful for your continued trust and membership. Thank you for being part of our dynamic community, and here’s to an exciting new year ahead!
Happy New Year,
Heather Clancy-Young
Your Wish is Our Command!
The Make Your ONE Wish Initiative
The ONE Federal Credit Union proudly granted 75 wishes through the Make Your ONE Wish initiative, a heartfelt program designed to celebrate our 75th anniversary of serving the community. These wishes came from a diverse range of causes, including child welfare and education, animal welfare, aiding unhoused individuals, assisting elderly communities, and promoting overall community welfare. Each wish was a meaningful step toward uplifting the lives of those around us, further strengthening the bond we share with the neighborhoods we proudly call home.
Selecting 75 wishes from hundreds of entries was no small task for our 75th Wish Committee. Each request reflected a deep need within the community, and
the committee worked diligently to ensure that the chosen wishes aligned with our mission of giving back in impactful ways. We were guided by the belief that supporting nonprofits and individuals creates a ripple effect, reaching far beyond the initial grant to touch countless lives. From funding educational programs for children to aiding shelters for animals and unhoused individuals, each wish granted was a testament to our commitment to fostering a brighter future.
What It Means To Us
The Make Your ONE Wish initiative represents more than just money; it symbolizes our gratitude to the community for 75 years of trust and support. This program is one of the many ways we’ve chosen to give back, highlighting the deep appreciation we feel for the
partnerships and relationships that have sustained us over the decades. It is through these connections that we’ve been able to grow, thrive, and continue serving with purpose.
The impact of the initiative is already being felt across the region. From smiles on children’s faces to the renewed hope of struggling nonprofits, the stories of those we’ve helped reaffirm why we do what we do.
These moments of joy and relief remind us that our true success lies not just in financial milestones but in the positive change we help create within the communities we serve. The Make Your ONE Wish initiative is a celebration of this shared journey and a promise to continue standing alongside our community in the years ahead.
Our Thanks To You
As we reflect on this milestone year, the Make Your ONE Wish initiative stands out as a highlight of our anniversary celebrations. It has been a privilege to support so many worthy causes and individuals. While the initiative was designed as a way to say thank you to our community, it has also been a deeply rewarding experience for everyone at ONE Federal Credit Union. Together, we’ve shown that when we come together to address local needs, the possibilities are limitless.
750 Hours Of Service Smashed!
Remember at the beginning of this year when we announced our pledge to completing 750 hours of service to celebrate our 75th Anniversary? Well, our team went above and beyond!
Our Commitment
In 2024, the ONE Federal Credit Union team went above and beyond its commitment to community service, completing an impressive 929 hours of volunteer work across more than 40 events and initiatives. This remarkable achievement reflects not only our dedication to helping others but also the spirit of service that lies at the heart of our organization. At the start of the year, we pledged to complete 750 hours of service as a tribute to the 75 years of unwavering support our communities have given us. Surpassing this goal underscores
the profound connection between ONE Federal Credit Union and the communities we serve.
Your Community
These efforts extended far and wide, touching numerous facets of our community. From supporting initiatives that promote public health and assist unhoused individuals to fostering education and aiding women in recovery, our team worked tirelessly to make a meaningful impact. We also prioritized lending a helping hand to local schools, children, and elderly residents, while contributing to causes that support the well-being of animals.
Each act of service brought us closer to understanding the unique challenges faced by our neighbors and inspired us to keep giving back in ways that truly matter.
The True Impact
Being present in our neighborhoods and assisting those in need has been both a privilege and a joy. The positive ripple effect of community service is undeniable—it fosters stronger bonds, instills hope, and creates a sense of shared purpose. As we reflect on this year’s accomplishments, we are reminded that giving back is not just a responsibility but a cornerstone of who we are. ONE Federal Credit Union is grateful to have been a part of so many incredible moments in 2024, and we look forward to continuing our journey of service and impact in the years to come.
Shape Up Your 2025 Finances
It’s that time of year again to be thinking about the state of your finances and your goals for the next year. Whether you wish to pay down your debt, build your credit, or even take a vacation, you’ll need to start with a solid plan to shape up your finances. Between all of your financial commitments, it can be hard to know where to start. So, here are a few ideas to help you begin thinking of how to shape up your finances.
Bulk Up Your Emergency Fund
Having a back-up fund may prevent you from having to tap or max out credit cards if your refrigerator dies or your car needs major repairs. Start by putting $5 each month into the fund, increase when you can.
Improve Your Credit Score
Having a clean credit history is more important than ever. First, obtain your free credit reports from annualcreditreport.com, review them, and dispute any errors. Next, work to improve your score: Pay all bills on time, maintain a healthy mix of credit, use less than 25% of your credit limit, and be sure to pay all fines and tickets—even unpaid library fines or parking tickets may be viewed negatively by potential lenders.
Stay On Top Of Your Accounts
To avoid overdraft fees, account closures, or other unexpected events, regularly monitor your credit card and other account balances.
Create a Spending Plan
...And stick to it. Bottom line: Expenses should not exceed income.
Get Organized
Consolidate accounts, organize financial documents (paper and digital), and use online banking, which can simplify your finances and reduce the likelihood you’ll miss a payment. Personal finance websites and apps make it easy to track your spending and manage your records, some with services that alert you when bills are due, or balances are close to their limit.
Pay Down Debt
Attack your high interest credit cards first by paying more than the minimum balance each month. Once you get your debt under control, make it a goal to pay off the balance each month to avoid accumulating interest.
Use Direct Deposit
If you still get paper checks, think about switching to automatic deposit. By having all or some of your payroll check directly transferred to your credit union account, you’ll be less tempted to spend what you could be saving.
Take Control of Your Investments
Regularly review and organize your portfolio and talk to a financial professional about rebalancing it.
Jan.02
Feb.03
Join us in donating blood during National Blood Donor Month. Check out a list of local donation pop-ups with American Red Cross at www.redcrossblood.org.
Come February, we will be committing to small acts of kindness to warm hearts in the wintery months. Join us and shovel a sidewalk or bake someone a meal, etc.
Mar.03 Apr.01 Apr.01
In March, we remind you to Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle! Opt for digital bills & statements, separate recyclable materials, and try switching to reusable bags.
We challenge you to be the reason someone smiles this April. Hold a door, give a compliment, spread positivity wherever you go and in whatever you do!
April marks another Youth Month celebration at ONE! Encourage kids to bank smart with activities & prizes all month long. Check out www.onefcu.com for more info.
Members are invited to join us for all events we participate in such as Kindness 365, Chamber events, ONE Special Events, and to see us in community parades!
Local Business You’ll Dig!
You’ll dig the way JMG Energy and Excavating plows, repairs, levels, and so much more!
JMG Energy and Excavating, LLC, is a proud local business rooted in the heart of Cochranton, Pennsylvania. Specializing in excavation and gas well digging, they’ve built a solid reputation for tackling everything from driveway installations and pond digging to preparing building sites and leveling arenas. Need a septic system installed or water lines laid? They’ve got you covered. With their wide range of services, JMG Energy makes it easy to handle all your property improvement and maintenance needs in one place.
At the core of JMG Energy and Excavating is Jason Gilliland, a hands-on owner who’s passionate about doing the job right and keeping his customers happy. Jason leads a hardworking team that knows how to get things done efficiently and with care. Whether it’s fixing up a basement, creating a smooth driveway, or getting a new building site ready, the JMG crew approaches every project with the same goal: making sure you’re thrilled with the results.
What really sets JMG Energy and Excavating apart is how much they care about their community. Jason and his team go above and beyond
to give back, whether it’s sponsoring the fire department, or lending a hand with community events. They don’t just work in Cochranton— they’re part of it, and they’re always looking for ways to make a positive impact.
With their down-to-earth attitude and commitment to great service, JMG Energy isn’t just a business— it’s a neighbor you can count on. Whether you need help with a big project or just want to spruce up your property, they’re ready to roll up their sleeves and make it happen. Friendly, reliable, and always ready to lend a hand, JMG Energy is here to help you get the job done right.
When it comes to banking that gets the job done right, Jason says this, “ONE Federal Credit Union has all my banking needs made simple and easy to take care of. They don’t have fees like PNC and other banks, and the Cochranton Branch girls are fun and easy to work with.”
Contact JMG for your excavation and other property needs.
(724) 866-1078
vistajasong@gmail.com
@JMG Energy and Excavating, LLC
Taking The Plunge For You!
Celebrating over 20 years of Taking The Plunge for Meadville PA area residents is Toolcity Plumbing. Your local, family-owned plumbing company serving Meadville PA!
Toolcity Plumbing, a family-owned business in Conneaut Lake, PA, has been a trusted name in the community for years. Owned and operated by Richard and Penny Watson, this small business has built its reputation by providing reliable, high-quality plumbing services at competitive rates. From replacing water heaters to repairing sewer and water lines, scoping internal pipe issues, and fixing leaks, Toolcity Plumbing proudly lives up to its motto: “All your plumbing needs.” Their commitment to excellence has made them a go-to resource for both homeowners and businesses in the area.
Owner Rick Watson brings over 32 years of experience to the plumbing trade, ensuring that every job is handled with expertise and care. Whether it’s clearing stubborn clogs or replacing outdated faucets, Rick and his team pride themselves on delivering solutions that last. To make their services even more accessible, they offer senior and military discounts on labor costs, reflecting their deep appreciation for the contributions and sacrifices of these groups.
Rooted in Conneaut Lake, the Watsons are passionate about giving
back to the community they call home. They regularly support local charities and engage in outreach through their church, embodying the spirit of neighborly care. For Rick, who was born and raised in the area, helping others in his hometown is not just a job—it’s a source of personal joy and fulfillment. This strong connection to the community is evident in the trust and loyalty they’ve earned from their customers.
Toolcity Plumbing’s dedication extends beyond their services to their choice of business partners, such as their financial partner, ONE Federal Credit Union. Sharing their experience with ONE FCU, the Watsons highlight how the credit union’s member service in Conneaut Lake has enhanced their business
operations. “Since beginning with ONE, they opened a branch in Conneaut Lake, and we couldn’t be any happier! The location is very convenient, but the people are truly what make their banking better! Any question or any need, all I have to do is reach out and ask!” This testimonial underscores the value of local businesses supporting each other, creating a stronger, more connected community.
Through their reliable service and commitment to their neighbors, Toolcity Plumbing has become more than a business—it’s a cornerstone of the Conneaut Lake community. Whether it’s solving plumbing issues or participating in charitable activities, they continually strive to make a positive impact for those they serve.
Campfire Nights, Starry Sights
Explore the shores and great outdoors of Conneaut Lake with Camperland. Pitch a tent, bring your camper, or kick back in a cozy cabin. Your camping trip is guaranteed to be full of fun no matter how you spend it.
Camperland, nestled in the picturesque Conneaut Lake area, is more than just a place to stay—it’s a gateway to outdoor adventure and community connection. This beloved local business offers a variety of camping options, from traditional campsites to cozy cabins, ensuring that both seasoned campers and first-timers feel right at home. Camperland’s mission is simple yet powerful: to make camping accessible and enjoyable for everyone. They recognize the unique ability of nature to bring people together and aim to create experiences that result in cherished, lifelong memories.
One of Camperland’s standout features is the thoughtful balance between rustic charm and modern comfort. Their cabins are designed to capture the spirit of traditional camping while incorporating conveniences like hot water showers and full hookups, ensuring a stressfree experience for guests. Every campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring, inviting families and friends to gather for meals, s’mores, and storytelling under the stars. For those who love outdoor activities, Camperland’s proximity to walking trails, golf courses, and horseback
riding opportunities makes it a prime destination.
This year, Camperland is adding an exciting new feature—a swimming pool. This addition reflects their commitment to constantly improving the guest experience. Combined with existing amenities like beach swimming and a nearby park for kids, the swimming pool is sure to become a family favorite. These thoughtful touches demonstrate Camperland’s dedication to making outdoor adventures fun, convenient, and inclusive for all ages.
As a local business, Camperland takes pride in its strong ties to the Conneaut Lake community. They actively participate in local events and initiatives, supporting the region and fostering connections among residents and visitors. Their involvement underscores their belief in the power of community, adding an extra layer of warmth and authenticity to the camping experience they provide.
Ultimately, Camperland offers more than just a place to pitch a tent or rent a cabin; they provide a space for people to reconnect—with nature, with loved ones, and with themselves. Whether you’re hiking
scenic trails, enjoying a round of golf, or simply relaxing by the fire, Camperland ensures your outdoor adventure is memorable and fulfilling. By combining exceptional amenities, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to community, Camperland truly exemplifies the best of Conneaut Lake.
Book your camping trip now to beat the summer rush!
www.camperlandclp.com (814) 529-2267
clpcamperland@gmail.com
Kindness 365: Wrapping Up 2024
As the year draws to a close, ONE Federal Credit Union is proud to celebrate the extraordinary efforts of our Kindness 365 mission, which has touched countless lives and brought our community closer together. From supporting those fighting breast cancer to helping families in need and spreading goodwill throughout the holiday season, our members and team have demonstrated that kindness truly knows no bounds.
October: Breast Cancer Awareness
We kicked things off for the quarter with October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Drive, where members raised $1,354.17 to support the fight against this devastating disease. ONE Federal Credit Union matched every dollar, and with the additional generosity of Froggy Hop For Hope, we were able to donate an incredible $2,958.34 to the Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Unit. This contribution will help provide critical resources and care for patients and their families, proving that together, we can make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer.
November: Healing Hands For Homeless
Next, Healing Hands for Homeless focused on supporting local homeless shelters during the holiday season. We invited members to donate essential items and services to help shelters meet the growing needs of their communities. Additionally, our team worked to provide pantry staples and create 26 holiday meal boxes for families in need within the ONE community. These efforts helped ensure that no one would be forgotten during a season that should be filled with warmth and joy.
December’s focus was on The Season of Kindness, encouraging acts of generosity and compassion throughout the holidays. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading cheer, this initiative reminded everyone that even the smallest act of kindness has the power to brighten someone’s day. By inspiring others to pay it forward, we aimed to create a chain reaction of goodwill that would extend far beyond the holiday season.
Why Kindness 365 Is Important To Us
Kindness isn’t just a gift to those who receive it—it’s a gift to everyone involved. Acts of compassion improve emotional well-being, reduce stress, and foster stronger connections, making our communities healthier and happier places to live. When we choose kindness, we create a world where support and understanding take center stage, reminding us of our shared humanity.
Networking In Our Neighborhooods
Meadville Halloween Parade
At the outer-space-themed Meadville Haloween Parade, our team showed up in ONE electric greens alongside our interstellar friends. Walking the parade is always the fun part of these events, but we also had the surprise of winning Commercial Runner Up for our float!
Saegertown Tractor Parade
Our team showed support at the Saegertown Tractor Parade by opening our doors at the local branch to provide a warming station for attendees. Participants were sure to stay cozy with the hot cocoa and hand warmers we passed out.
Grand Slams For Mammograms
The Allegheny College Baseball Team hosted their second annual Grand Slams For Mammograms fundraiser which our team supported by volunteering at concession stands and donating raffle baskets.
ONE FCU Santa Day
It was a fun time with Santa and all his holiday friends at ONE’s annual Santa Day Celebration! The Bakery Elves passed out hot cocoa and cookies, the Toy Shop Elves made crafts with the kids, and the Ice Queen and Princess shared their magic with story times.
3 Smart Ways To Spend Your Tax Return
If you’re expecting a tax refund this year, it’s smart to have a plan for your money. Don’t end up spending your refund money like it’s a bonus check from the government—treat it like any other paycheck. Think about your financial situation and figure out the most beneficial way to use that money. Here are a few suggestions:
Pay Off High-Interest Debt
Put your refund to work by paying off high-interest debt. Any credit card interest that you’re paying is too much, and paying down should be your first priority. There are a couple of options to consider when you’re paying off card debt. Either focus on paying down the card with the highest rate first; or focus on paying off the card with the lowest balance.
Start or Increase an Emergency Fund
How prepared are you for an emergency expense? Think about a car repair, emergency room bill, or having to replace your refrigerator. Experts suggest having three to six months’ worth of expenses covered, but if you can’t save that amount right away, start with a smaller goal
and increase it as you can. Don’t use money in your retirement, investments, or college savings ay for unexpected expenses. A good initial goal for an emergency fund is around $500, which will give you a pretty good start and cushion for an emergency.
Invest In Your Future
Once you have high-interest debt under control and have put enough money in savings to cover an unexpected event, start investing. When you’re young, saving for retirement may be the last thing on your mind, but doing so will help set yourself up for financial comfort later in life. Consider putting your tax refund into a Traditional or Roth IRA to strengthen your finances. If you don’t already have one, use this opportunity to start one.
If you’ve been on your game all year, then don’t feel guilty about using some of your refund to treat yourself. Just remember not to get carried away.
FROM OUR MANAGERS A Few Words
DAN WEBSTER
Jr. Executive of Relationship Management
“The start of the new year comes as an opportunity to refresh your perspective and reassess your goals, Want to take that vacation this year? Maybe you wish to avoid the holiday financial stress of last year? Or, maybe you’re ready to upgrade your home. Whatever your goals, our team is here and ready to help you achieve them. ONE has High Yield Savings Accounts, multiple financing options with competitive rates, and a wealth of knowledge to get you on the path to managing your money. Give us a call or book an appointment online for a consultation.”
KATIE LEVETO
Saegertown Branch Manager
“The Saegertown team is overjoyed by the amount of feedback our members are leaving at the member survey kiosk. As 2025 kicks off, we’re taking your suggestions and preferences into consideration to make this year even better than the last. We strive to provide top-of-the-line member service, and your feedback holds the key. So, please continue to leave reviews at the kiosk on your way out of the branch, by clicking the smiley faces in ONE Federal Credit Union team member emails, or by scanning the QR codes on our signs.”
MELINDA DANKO
Conneaut Lake Branch Manager
“Remember, you don’t have to face your 2025 financial goals alone. Our Financial Wellness @ONE program is stocked with resources to help you budget stronger, save smarter, pay down debt faster, and build credit with ease. You can check out our website at www.onefcu.com for more information, or simply give us a call to see how we can help you check off all the boxes on your 2025 list of financial resolutions!”
CHELSEA BARR
Cochranton Branch Manager
“2024 was a fantastic year for the Cochranton team. It brought us so much to be thankful for including the relationships we’ve grown with our members, the kindness of our community, and the teamwork we’ve built across the company. We’re looking forward to seeing what 2025 brings and hope you join us!”
