About Us
What is a Credit Union?
A Credit Union is a cooperative, not-for-profit financial institution organized to promote thrift and provide credit to its members. It is member-owned and controlled through a board of directors elected by the membership. The board serves on a volunteer basis, and their duties include establishing and revising policies, setting dividend and loan rates, and directing certain operations. The result is that members are provided with a safe, convenient place to save and borrow money at an institution that exists to benefit them, not to make a profit.
Who is Emerald Credit Union?
Emerald Credit Union was originally chartered as the Garfield Heights School Employees’ Credit Union in 1955, serving only the employees of that school district. Since then, we have grown to include over 25 Select Employment Groups (SEGs) and six local school districts. We have a community charter, allowing us to serve all who live, work, attend school, or worship in Cuyahoga County. Our sole purpose is to serve our members by providing affordable financial products and services, great rates, lower fees, and member-friendly terms. We strive to offer world-class service to all Emerald Credit Union members, every day.
Mission Statement
Emerald Credit Union exists to be a positive agent of change within Cuyahoga County by providing its underserved communities and members with affordable, high-quality financial products and services. We strive to promote financial literacy, fiscal well-being, and to provide increased opportunities for economic prosperity among our membership base.
Vision Statement
Our vision is to be a catalyst for financial empowerment and inclusion among individuals and families within our community. We strive to provide affordable, accessible, and customizable financial products and services that promote economic mobility and financial well-being. Through continual education and guidance, we aim to eliminate barriers and create equitable opportunities for our members to help them build financial security and stability. We envision a future where every person in Cuyahoga County has equitable access to the tools, resources, and support to thrive financially and communally. As a trusted local financial partner, we are committed to uplifting our community and creating a more prosperous future for all.
Core Values
Member Driven: We are committed to investing in the needs and interests of our membership by providing exceptional financial products and services with a personalized, friendly approach.
Community-Focused: Our top priority is uplifting and supporting the families and individuals within
Cuyahoga County. We are committed to understanding their unique needs and challenges, and developing solutions that create a positive, lasting impact locally.
Financial Empowerment: We believe that access to financial education, tools and guidance is key to
facilitating healthy financial futures for our members. Promoting economic mobility through empowerment is central to our mission of achieving financial stability, security, and prosperity for our members.
Inclusivity and Equity: We strive to break down barriers and create an equitable financial landscape for all, regardless of economic status. Inclusive and non-discriminatory products, services, and treatment are core to who we are and what we do. We welcome and serve a diverse array of members who live, work, or worship in Cuyahoga County.
Integrity: We operate with the utmost transparency, honesty, and ethical principles in every transaction and interaction. We are committed to creating, building, and sustaining trust and confidence among our
membership.
Social Responsibility: We wisely utilize our resources and are mindful of making sound business decisions that will benefit both our membership and the Garfield community.
Connections
We are proud members of two area chambers of commerce:
Cuyahoga East Chamber of Commerce and
Cuyahoga Valley Chamber of Commerce. These organizations are made up of businesses working together to promote the interests of our local communities through advocacy, networking, promotion, economic development, and financial access.
Equal Opportunity for All
In accordance with federal laws and U.S. Department of the Treasury policy, we are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.
Learn more about your rights and how to file a complaint.
Meet Our Board of Directors
The Emerald Credit Union Board of Directors are volunteers elected by our members to represent our members. They ensure that we offer the best products, services, and benefits to all of our members, all of the time.
Richard Stefanko - Chairman
James Marunowski - Vice Chairman
Stan Perry - Secretary
Elizabeth Royce - Treasurer
Donna Gallavan - Director
Robert Maria - Director
Robert Routson - Director
Contact the Board of Directors
Do you have a question you'd like to ask our Board of Directors? Simply fill out the form below and click "Send."