MilestONE Magazine: Winter 2025

Celebrating

New Beginnings Together COMMUNITY

FINANCIAL FITNESS

CREDIT UNION NEWS

Your Wish Is Our Command

Shape Up Your 2025 Finances

Letter From The President

750 Hours Of Service, Smashed!

3 Smart Ways To Spend Your Tax Return

Calendar Of Events

Networking In Our Neighborhoods

Financial Insights

A Few Words From Our Managers

C NTACT

LOCATIONS

ONLINE

MEADVILLE

WEBSITE

868 Park Ave Meadville, PA 16335 300 Arch St.

www.onefcu.com

WEB BANKING onlinebanking.onefcu.com

Meadville, PA 16335

SAEGERTOWN

EMAIL info@onefcu.com

280 North St. Saegertown, PA 16433

FACEBOOK /ONEFCU1

CONNEAUT LAKE 10998 State Highway 18

INSTAGRAM

Conneaut Lake, PA 16316

@onefederalcreditunion

COCHRANTON 180 N. Franklin St. Cochranton, PA 16314

GET IN TOUCH OUR OFFICES Main Line: 814.336.2794 Toll Free: 888.299.7351

DEBIT CARDS Activate/PIN Change: 800.992.3808 Lost/Stolen: 833.337.6075 Fraud Watch: 844.682.4502

CREDIT CARDS Activation: 800.456.6870 Lost/Stolen: 800.991.4961 Card/Balance Info: 800.433.0505

In This Issue 1 Letter From The President 3 Your Wish Is Our Command MAKE YOUR ONE WISH

5 750 Hours Of Service, Smashed!

6 Shape Up Your 2025 Finances 7 Calendar Of Events 8 Business Spotlights JMG ENERGY AND EXCAVATING / TOOLCITY PLUMBING / CAMPERLAND

11 Kindness 365 WRAPPING UP 2024

13 Networking In Our Neighborhoods 14 3 Smart Ways to Spend Your Tax Return 15 Financial Insights 16 A Few Words From Our Managers

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:

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Personalized Service

underserved communities across Pennsylvania,

In 2025, we’re dedicated to enhancing the way

New York, and Ohio. We are committed to ensuring

we serve you by providing more personalized

that even the most remote areas have access

experiences. From customized financial advice to

to the financial services they need to thrive. By

tools that make managing your accounts easier, our

deepening our presence in these regions, we aim

goal is to help you achieve your financial aspirations

to offer personalized, accessible banking solutions

with a seamless and supportive approach. We want to

to individuals and businesses who may have limited

ensure that every interaction is tailored to your unique

options. This expansion is not just about growing our

needs and preferences.

membership - it’s about empowering communities with the resources and support necessary for financial

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,

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.

community and kindness. As we grow, we remain

On behalf of the entire team at ONE, I wish you a

committed to fostering a culture that puts people

healthy, prosperous, and fulfilling 2025. We are truly

before profit, ensuring that our decisions reflect the

grateful for your continued trust and membership.

best interests of our members. We’ll continue working

Thank you for being part of our dynamic community,

to ensure that every action we take strengthens the

and here’s to an exciting new year ahead!

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

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.

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

Selecting 75 wishes from hundreds of entries was no

community for 75 years of trust and support. This

small task for our 75th Wish Committee. Each request

program is one of the many ways we’ve chosen to give

reflected a deep need within the community, and

back, highlighting the deep appreciation we feel for the

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partnerships and relationships that have sustained us over the decades. It is through these connections that

Our Thanks To You As we reflect on this milestone year, the Make Your

we’ve been able to grow, thrive, and continue serving

ONE Wish initiative stands out as a highlight of our

with purpose.

anniversary celebrations. It has been a privilege to

The impact of the initiative is already being felt across

support so many worthy causes and individuals. While

the region. From smiles on children’s faces to the

the initiative was designed as a way to say thank you

renewed hope of struggling nonprofits, the stories of

to our community, it has also been a deeply rewarding

those we’ve helped reaffirm why we do what we do.

experience for everyone at ONE Federal Credit Union.

These moments of joy and relief remind us that our true

Together, we’ve shown that when we come together to

success lies not just in financial milestones but in the

address local needs, the possibilities are limitless.

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.

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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!

the profound connection between

Each act of service brought us

Our Commitment

ONE Federal Credit Union and the

closer to understanding the unique

In 2024, the ONE Federal Credit

communities we serve.

challenges faced by our neighbors

Union team went above and beyond

and inspired us to keep giving back

its commitment to community

Your Community

service, completing an impressive

These efforts extended far and

929 hours of volunteer work across

wide, touching numerous facets of

The True Impact

more than 40 events and initiatives.

our community. From supporting

Being present in our

This remarkable achievement

initiatives that promote public health

neighborhoods and assisting

reflects not only our dedication to

and assist unhoused individuals

those in need has been both a

helping others but also the spirit

to fostering education and aiding

privilege and a joy. The positive

of service that lies at the heart of

women in recovery, our team worked

ripple effect of community

our organization. At the start of the

tirelessly to make a meaningful

service is undeniable—it fosters

year, we pledged to complete 750

impact. We also prioritized lending

stronger bonds, instills hope,

hours of service as a tribute to the

a helping hand to local schools,

and creates a sense of shared

75 years of unwavering support

children, and elderly residents,

purpose. As we reflect on this

our communities have given us.

while contributing to causes that

year’s accomplishments, we

Surpassing this goal underscores

support the well-being of animals.

are reminded that giving back

in ways that truly matter.

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

Get Organized

Having a back-up fund may prevent you from

Consolidate accounts, organize financial

having to tap or max out credit cards if your

documents (paper and digital), and use online

refrigerator dies or your car needs major repairs.

banking, which can simplify your finances and

Start by putting $5 each month into the fund,

reduce the likelihood you’ll miss a payment.

increase when you can.

Personal finance websites and apps make it easy to track your spending and manage your records,

Improve Your Credit Score

some with services that alert you when bills are

Having a clean credit history is more important

due, or balances are close to their limit.

than ever. First, obtain your free credit reports from annualcreditreport.com, review them, and dispute

Pay Down Debt

any errors. Next, work to improve your score: Pay all

Attack your high interest credit cards first by paying

bills on time, maintain a healthy mix of credit, use

more than the minimum balance each month.

less than 25% of your credit limit, and be sure to

Once you get your debt under control, make it a

pay all fines and tickets—even unpaid library fines

goal to pay off the balance each month to avoid

or parking tickets may be viewed negatively by

accumulating interest.

potential lenders.

Use Direct Deposit Stay On Top Of Your Accounts

If you still get paper checks, think about switching

To avoid overdraft fees, account closures, or other

to automatic deposit. By having all or some of your

unexpected events, regularly monitor your credit

payroll check directly transferred to your credit

card and other account balances.

union account, you’ll be less tempted to spend what you could be saving.

Create a Spending Plan ...And stick to it. Bottom line: Expenses should not

Take Control of Your Investments

exceed income.

Regularly review and organize your portfolio and talk to a financial professional about rebalancing it.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS 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!

Jan.02

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.

Feb.03

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.

01

20

17

18

JANUARY

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

APRIL

All offices will be CLOSED for New Years Day

All offices will be CLOSED for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

All offices will be CLOSED for Presidents Day

All offices will be CLOSED for Good Friday

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

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.”

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.

Contact JMG for your excavation and other property needs.

(724) 866-1078 vistajasong@gmail.com @JMG Energy and Excavating, LLC

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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.

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.

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

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.

Contact Toolcity Plumbing to Schedule a Service Appointment www.toolcityplumbing.net

(814) 724-9569

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

December: The Season of Kindness

G. Barco Oncology Unit. This contribution will help

To wrap up the year with even more heart,

provide critical resources and care for patients and

December’s focus was on The Season of Kindness,

their families, proving that together, we can make a

encouraging acts of generosity and compassion

meaningful difference in the fight against cancer.

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

November: Healing Hands For Homeless

improve emotional well-being, reduce stress, and foster stronger connections, making our

Next, Healing Hands for Homeless focused on

communities healthier and happier places to live.

supporting local homeless shelters during the

When we choose kindness, we create a world

holiday season. We invited members to donate

where support and understanding take center

essential items and services to help shelters

stage, reminding us of our shared humanity.

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.

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Networking In Our Neighborhooods

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.

Meadville Halloween Parade

Saegertown Tractor Parade

It was a fun time with Santa and all

At the outer-space-themed

Our team showed support at the

his holiday friends at ONE’s annual

Meadville Haloween Parade, our

Saegertown Tractor Parade by

Santa Day Celebration! The Bakery

team showed up in ONE electric

opening our doors at the local

Elves passed out hot cocoa and

greens alongside our interstellar

branch to provide a warming station

cookies, the Toy Shop Elves made

friends. Walking the parade is always

for attendees. Participants were sure

crafts with the kids, and the Ice

the fun part of these events, but

to stay cozy with the hot cocoa and

Queen and Princess shared their

we also had the surprise of winning

hand warmers we passed out.

magic with story times.

Commercial Runner Up for our float!

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ONE FCU Santa Day

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,

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.

or having to replace your refrigerator. Experts suggest having three to six months’ worth of

If you’ve been on your game all year, then don’t

expenses covered, but if you can’t save that

feel guilty about using some of your refund to treat

amount right away, start with a smaller goal

yourself. Just remember not to get carried away.

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A Few Words

FROM OUR MANAGERS

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!”

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