Credit Union Celebrates 80 Years at NIH

This year, the NIH Federal Credit Union (NIHFCU) marks 80 years of continuous operation. On Jan. 11, 1940, when 9 federal employees pooled $75 and began transacting business out of a shoebox, NIHFCU was born. From a cramped 5’x 6’ space on campus to today’s advanced mobile banking solutions, NIHFCU has enjoyed a long history (see https://www.nihfcu.org/about/).

“The evolution of the NIHFCU from its humble beginnings is quite remarkable,” said Rick Wieczorek, NIHFCU’s president & CEO. “Its ability to grow through the vast social, regulatory and economic changes over the decades is a tribute to all those who have touched the NIHFCU in some way. This includes our volunteer board and committee members, dedicated employees and, of course, our incredibly loyal members who continue to provide us with the privilege of serving their financial needs.”

To help celebrate, NIHFCU has a Celebrate 80 Years webpage (https://www.celebrate80.com/) where members can share their stories about how the credit union has made a difference in their lives or for their loved ones. Members who provide stories will also be entered to win a share of $800 in cash prizes. The credit union will highlight some of the most unique stories throughout the celebratory year.

“Our story search is a great way for our members to chronicle their experiences over past decades,” said Steve Levin, NIHFCU’s vice president of marketing and business development. “With NIHFCU’s new ‘Discover Banking with Heart’ brand position, the timing of our anniversary celebration is perfect and we look forward to receiving and sharing the many genuine and powerful stories from our membership.”

In addition to the story search, the credit union will also mark its 80th anniversary by opening a new “branch of the future” in Silver Spring, expanding its community service and volunteerism and announcing a variety of member special opportunities throughout the year.