Celebrating National Bring Your Kids to Work Day with St. Cloud Federal Credit Union

This past April, St.Cloud Federal Credit Union celebrated National Bring Your Daughters and Sons to Work Day. As part of an activity, Sarah Mason gave each child $10 to make a difference in someone's life. We got some interesting stories back from the kids’ experiences, and we’d like to share a few with you.

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I took my kids out to eat for lunch at Waffle It. I was sitting at the table waiting for our food while the kids were playing at the play area and my daughter Jayla comes up to me to tell me she wants to give away her $10 to the elderly couple sitting in the other room. I told her she doesn't have to do it right away and it can be another day if she wants to wait. She insisted she wanted to make a difference right now. Then I asked her why she's choosing them, she just said, “Because, I just want to make a difference in their day today.”

We went over to the couple and I introduced us and explained that it was Take Your Kids to Work Day today & SCFCU wanted the kids to make a difference and that my daughter wanted to give them something.

Jayla laid the $10 on their table and it was THE BEST MOMENT for all of us. The couple's eyes started watering; the husband's lips were trembling and he was speechless. His wife put her fork down to touch her heart and Jayla's face was beaming with happiness! The wife asked, "What do we owe you?" I said, "Nothing. My daughter wanted you guys to have this so you can enjoy your next meal or outing."The wife was shocked and touched.

The husband came to our table before he left and said to Jayla, "I just wanted you to know how deeply touched we are by what you just did. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness. From a Marine, you are a princess."She just smiled the whole time and said, "You're Welcome."

After he left, she said to me "I wish I could make a difference every day; it makes me feel happier." Of course, I told her she can make a difference as many times a day she wants and as long as she wants.

Thank you SCFCU for giving us the opportunity to show my daughter her new passion.

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As we were pulling into Red Robin, we saw an older gentleman. We pulled up alongside him while he was on the sidewalk. Bethany started a conversation, explaining who we were and what we were doing. Nicholas happened to be on the passenger side of the car, and gave the man his $10. He was speechless, he could not believe it. He even asked a few times, is this for real? He was so grateful, and surprised. He thanked us several times, and said “God Bless You” to us. As we drove away, he just stood there watching in disbelief.

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There was such an amazing, wonderful and warm feeling inside the vehicle of happiness, excitement, and pride. I just want to say a HUGE thank you Jed, Sarah, Alyce, Jordan, Rebekah and everyone who had helped to make this wonderful day happen. It meant so much to myself, and my son Brent, to share the day and the experience together. I asked Brent if there was anything he would change, and the last 2 years, he has the same answer, “I wish it was more than once a year!"

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I just received a call from a member asking if we were the credit union giving away $10.00 dollars. I told him yes and explained that it was take your kids to work day and that we wanted each child to make a difference with the money they were given.

He continued to say that he was surprised and wanted to say thank you so much, that was the nicest thing to receive and very proud of what we were teaching the younger generation.

He said “You are my Credit Union too”!!"

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Beckett had waited to give away her $10 and she did it this morning at Coborns. She gave it an older gentleman that was waiting in line to pay. He was almost to tears and first tried to give it back to her and she said he couldn’t. Then he asked if he could give her a hug and she did. The cutest thing was when we got in the car, I asked her how that felt. She said at first she wanted to keep the money but after she gave it away she felt “gooder”!

Thanks for the opportunity to have our kids experience that feeling!"



As a company, it feels great to get to know one another better though our children, it also feels great to teach our children about the effects of helping others and share our stories with one another. That is also why we would like to share our experiences with our members! If you’re looking to start teaching your children about saving money, doing the right thing, and giving back to others, let the experts at St. Cloud Federal Credit Union help get you started!

Teaching Your Children to Control Their Finances

April is National Youth Savings Month, which is a good time to show that we value each of our members–especially the children! If you haven’t already, now is a good time to teach your kids about the value of a dollar and the power of financial control. Show them that they can invest, manage and grow their money as they grow, too. We’ve gathered easy ways children can build their savings and learn to be financially secure.

Set Up a Savings Account

To get started, set up a Youth Savings Account at St. Cloud Federal Credit Union. We provide youth savings accounts from birth to age 16. Valuable benefits come along with all youth accounts. Special incentives are given to children who make a deposit and prizes are awarded when a new youth account is opened! Our savings accounts are designed to make financial sense to youth and young teens–not just their parents.

Use Birthdays and Special Occasions as a Learning Opportunity

Children are given a number of gifts every year for their birthdays and holidays. Most of the gifts and cash they receive gets forgotten and rarely makes an impact on the child’s future. Next time your child receives cash for a gift, teach them that setting aside a percentage for later will be valuable for their future. Encourage them to save up for a big-ticket item instead of asking for one for gifts. This way, not only will your child get what they want, but they will understand the means it takes to get it.

Set Chores Around the House

According to The Center for Parenting Education, “Research indicates that those children who have a set of chores have higher self-esteem, are more responsible, and are better able to deal with frustration and delay gratification...” Not only can your children earn small rewards for doing their chores, they are becoming financially fit without realizing it!

Encourage Your Kids to Become Mini Entrepreneurs

The next sunny summer day, make some lemonade with your children and help them set up a stand. They will begin to understand the value of working for the money you earn and exposes them to the idea of success. They’ll better understand finance by making change and saving their profits.

Babysitting

Babysitting teaches responsibility and will help young teens prepare for the future. Babysitting is common for young kids to put on their first job applications. The quality lessons they’ve learned will better prepare them for future jobs. The cash they earned can be put into savings for the future, too!

These are just a few of the ways you can get your kids involved in saving and becoming more financially savvy. For more ideas, follow St. Cloud Federal Credit Union on Facebook, or visit our website.

Seven Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treating

Halloween is just around the corner, and as always – the safety of our Members and Community is very important to us.  Below are 7 tips for making sure you and your gang Trick-or-Treat safely this year…

1. Plan Your Route

It’s a good idea to decide what neighborhoods and streets you’ll be visiting for Trick-or-Treating ahead of time so you know you aren't wandering too far from home, which may result in some tired little legs.  Make sure it is a familiar neighborhood, in case any one gets separated.

2. Be Seen

When you’re putting the final touches on costumes and treat bags, consider adding a few strips of reflective tape to assure your kiddos can be seen.  Also, remember to carry along a flashlight, for when it gets dark – it’ll be helpful for tying shoes and seeing where you’re going.

3. Walk on the Sidewalk

This safety tips has two parts; first, make sure you and your goblins and ghosts walk while Trick-or-Treating for everyone’s safety. Second, make sure they stay on the sidewalk or a cleared path.  You never know when a car is going to turn down a street, and you may not be able to see items on the road that could cause a spill.

4. Make Trip-Free Costumes

When you’re getting ready to go, make sure everyone’s costumes are an appropriate length.  This may mean trimming the bottom, or adjusting the height of where a costume is worn, but it will also make for a safe, comfortable, and fun evening.

5. Fuel Up

Make sure you take the time to have a good meal (or snack, depending on the time) before Trick-or-Treating.  Also, have a water bottle along so that everyone stays hydrated.  It’ll help the kids (and you!) enjoy the night without having to substitute Skittles for a sandwich.

6. Lit Houses Only

This rule of thumb is one of the most basic Trick-or-Treating practices, but we wanted to include it in our reminders.  Make sure to only approach houses that are well-lit.  If there’s a light on but no one answers your knock, skip the house – they must like the tricks more than the treats.

7. Check the Candy

Before your kids dive into their bag of goodies, have a look at their candy. No, we don’t suggest this so you can pick out your favorite pieces (although 1 or 2 might not hurt), but so that you can assure that any candy that is not properly wrapped or labeled can be thrown out. Better to be safe than sorry!

We hope you have a fun and safe Halloween night, not-so-full of tricks and abundant in treats!

Our mission is to educate, support, and encourage our Members to become Financially Fit.

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ID Theft: It Can Happen to Anyone!

Safety of our Members and our Community is always a priority at St. Cloud Federal Credit Union.  In the past, we’ve posted blog about how to stay safe online, and what we can do to help should any sort of identity theft occur. 

Over the past months, we’ve been focusing on the Financial Fitness of our Youth Members, in addition to our adult Members.  ID Theft criminals are using children’s social security numbers more frequently for anything from employment, apartment applications, open credit, checking, or phone accounts, and even access government benefits.  Mark Pribish, Merchant’s Info Group Vice President, and ID Theft Practice Leader covers a plethora of ID Theft safety tips for children on the internet, and even their personal information in schools.  We’ve highlighted a few of these below…

Online:

- Discuss the differences between a safe and secure website, and one that is not.

- Consider creating a list of which sites are OK to visit and which ones are definitely not.

- Talk with your children about letting you know when they come across a website they feel is suspicious. 

- Keep virus and malware software up to date and running properly.

- Remind youth of some basic online safety practice like: never give a phone number or address, don’t use full first and last names, don’t post photos without permission, and don’t download or open unknown files or programs.

At School:

 - Ask schools how your child’s information is collected, used, stored, and thrown away each school year.

- Make sure you know how school and extra curricular programs use your child’s date of birth, address, telephone number, and photo.

- If you feel as though information is requested that is not necessary, inquire why such details are needed.

- Thoroughly read privacy policies and make sure you are aware of how information is used and shared.

Some other basic safety tips are to always keep confidential documents (social security cards, passports, birth certificates, etc.) in a safe or locked file, and never give more information that you feel comfortable with.  Go with your gut feeling, and your child will thank you!

Our mission is to educate, support, and encourage our Members to become Financially Fit.


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Summer Safety

Summer is here and in full swing! Safety and care for our Members and Community are always a priority for us at St. Cloud Federal Credit Union.  Below is a list of 7 Summer Safety tips ...

1. Monitor Swimming Time

An adult should actively watch children swimming at all times.  Even if you’re in a shallow area, accidents can happen and it’s always better to be safe rather than sorry.  For toddlers and smaller youngsters, it’s a good idea for an adult to be in the water within arms reach.  Keep track of how long children have been in the water so that you know when they might be getting tired, or if they need a break.

2. Keep Campfires to a Manageable Size

A fire is a fun way to spend a nice summer evening, but make sure you take necessary safety precautions.  Clear the area of any dry grass or branches so nothing will accidentally become ignited.  It’s also a good idea to check the weather before you begin your fire, so you’ll know if any wind is expected.  To be clear about where the campfire is, set a perimeter around the fire – blocks, bricks, or rocks work.  Make sure to keep your fire to a size that is manageable by an adult; bigger isn’t always better!

3. Apply Sunscreen and Reapply Often

We know there is a lot of praise for that summertime glow, but your skin is worth protecting.  The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying sunscreen with at least 30 SPF 15-30 minutes before you step outside.  Remember, it is also important to apply sunscreen even on a cloudy day!

4. Store food and snacks at proper temperatures

With rising temperatures, it can be hard to keep snacks, picnics, and camp food at proper temperatures.  Plan out treats and meals wisely so that you don’t have to question whether or not what you’ve packed is safe to eat.  Make sure you’ve packed any raw meat separate from ready-to-eat food and snacks so nothing is cross-contaminated.  A good tip is to use an adequate sized cooler for your food; a fuller cooler stays cold longer than a half-full cooler.  Oh, and remember to bring a meat thermometer for grilling!

5. Use Seat Belts, Helmets, and Life Jackets

We know this seems like a ‘no-brainer’, but it is always a good reminder.  Especially with children, always encourage and demonstrate safety.  Wear your seat belts in any vehicle where they’re present, have a helmet handy when you bike or skate, and always put a life jacket on when you’re out on open water.  They may seem uncomfortable or a nuisance, but if something happens (which we hope never does!) you’ll be glad to have them.

6. Stay Hydrated

Drinking water can help reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and can keep you properly hydrated. Keep water or sports drinks (for the electrolytes) handy, and remember to take a break for a drink. If you’re starting to feel thirsty, that’s an early sign of mild dehydration!  A helpful rule of thumb when you and the kids are active is to stop for a drink break every 20-30 minutes.

7. Know Your Surroundings

Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just playing in the backyard or nearby park, make sure you know your surroundings.  Summer is prime weather for ticks, mosquitoes, bees, and dangerous plants like poison ivy.  If you’re familiar with the environment you and your kiddos are in, you can dress appropriately and use proper preventative measures with sprays, as well as clean up when you’re finished.

Have a fun, happy, safe Summer, from all of us at SCFCU!



Our mission is to educate, support, and encourage our Members to become Financially Fit.


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Summer Fun - For Less {Part 2}

As you may have read, we have a compiled a list of 10 ways you can have fun this summer, without spending 'an arm and a leg' - and below is the second half of that list.  We always strive for Financial Fitness, so this Summer vacation, we encourage you to try some activities that will keep more money in your account and smiles on everyone’s face...

6. Keep Learning

Just because school is out doesn't mean learning needs to stop! Make a calendar with your youngsters and pick a different theme for what you want learn about that week.  Pick fun and interesting topics like stars and constellations, cloud formations, bugs and insects, the environment, animals, and more!

7. Go to the Library

Libraries are a jackpot for afternoons and days of fun, for free! Many local libraries not only offer an endless supply of summer reading, but you can also check out movies and audio tracks as well.  Ask at your local library for any summer activities for the kiddos or book clubs for adults.

8. Plan a game night

Gather a few neighborhood friends and families and host a game night!  Ask each family to bring a snack to share and a game of their choice and make an evening out of it!  You’ll get to know other families and maybe even learn a new game or two!

9. S’more fun

If it’s legal in your neighborhood, pick a night and have a bonfire and camp out!  Grab some hot dogs and s’more ingredients, maybe a game, and some music.  This can be a nice way to spend time with family and friends and enjoy the summer evenings. 

10. Volunteer

There are many places that would love to have extra help during the summer months.  You can volunteer at all kinds of places – an animal shelter, a food shelf, or a recycling center – even an afternoon of picking up littered trash can be a huge help.  You’ll feel better too!

There are hundreds of other ways you can have fun this Summer without spending heaps of money.  Be creative, try new things, and think outside the box!  Whatever you do, make the most of it and have fun – Financial Fitness doesn't have to mean sacrificing a good time!

Our mission is to educate, support, and encourage our Members to become Financially Fit.


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Summer Fun - For Less! {Part 1}

Uh-oh, it’s the 3^rd day of Summer break and you've already heard the dreaded words: “I’m bored.” During Summer, it can be easy to slip into lazy habits, and redundant routines.  But don't worry- having fun and doing activities doesn't always have to cost money!  Because of our Financial Fitness goals, we've compiled a list of 10 things you can do this Summer without ruining your budget - below are the first 5...

1. Head to the Beach

There’s nothing like sand, sun, and waves to make for a great summer afternoon!  Find a nearby lake or pond, and go for a dip! Make a day of it and pack a picnic – the sun and water will be a refreshing way to enjoy the summer atmosphere.

2. Wash the Car

Unwind the hose, grab some sponges, and have fun!  Washing the car is another way for kids to cool off on a sunny day and still help out with chores – plus, your car will look great!

3. Check out Neighborhood Parks

The great thing about summer is being able to spend time outside.  You can play, relax, and maybe even get in on some fun events held at parks near you. Check  your local calendar for details!

4. Have a Lemonade Stand

When you come across a good deal on lemonade at the grocery store (or maybe the nearby dollar store), pick some up and make a lemonade stand! A lemonade stand can be a great way for kids to spend the afternoon, and learn about money too!

5. Visit Town Festivals

During the summer months, many small town communities host their own home-town festivals and offer local (and often live) music, food, art, and festivities!  Put on your walking shoes and see what all the excitement is about.

As you can see, having a good time doesn't always mean spending a lot of money!  Having fun and seeing new things can be low-cost, and even free.  Stay tuned for 5 more Summer activities that will keep you Financially Fit in Part 2!



Our mission is to educate, support, and encourage our Members to become Financially Fit.


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Youth Week 2013!

Who’s ready for some fun? At St. Cloud Federal Credit Union, we are very excited to announce Youth Week 2013, coming to our St. Cloud and Sartell locations the week of April 21^st – 27^th! We would love to have you come and help us celebrate National Credit Union Youth Week at a number of fun events we’ll be hosting…

All week you can stop by to pick up a coloring sheet for our coloring contest and have your “I’m a Star Saver because…” photo taken.  Also during Youth Week, all youth ages 12 and under who open an account at SCFCU will receive a Star Saver bank and gift bag!

Other exciting events include:

Root Beer Floats!

Join us Monday, April 22^nd from 2:30-4:30pm to kick off Youth Week with a delicious treat!  Root Beer floats will be offered at both locations.

Tour the Credit Union!

RSVP to 320-258-2161 by Wednesday 4-24 to have your very own tour of SCFCU on Thursday, April 25^th.  Tour times are at 10:30am, 3:30pm, 4:00pm, and 4:30pm.  There are limited spots available, so call today!

Winner, Winner!

On Friday, April 26^th we’ll choose 3 winners from our coloring contest and 4 random winners of our Star Saver photos and announce them at 3:00pm on our Facebook page.  Each winner will receive $25!

Movie Showing!

On Saturday, April 27^th at 10:00am we’ll be showing Wreck it Ralph in our lower level Community Room at our St. Cloud location (3030 First St. South).  Bring a pillow and blanket, we’ll pop the popcorn! Please RSVP to 320-258-2161 by Friday, 4/26.

We’re so excited to celebrate the Youth in our community and encourage Star Saving!  If you have any questions or would like to RSVP for our fun activities, please call 320-258-2161, or visit our Youth Week page on our website!  We hope to see you all during Youth Week!

Going Green = More Green

As many of you know, April 22^nd is Earth Day!  In effort to create a better understanding of ways we can all contribute to ‘greener’ living, we've been focusing many of our posts around environmental practices and awareness.  Living with Mother Earth in mind is not only good for our conscience, but it can make our wallets feel a little better too! How? Below is a list of ways going green, can help you have more ‘green’… 

1. Aluminum = CHA-CHING

Collecting pop cans is one of the most common forms of recycling.  Did you know you can turn in those aluminum cans for change? In Central MN you can get anywhere from 60-70 cents per pound, which is about 35 cans.  Toss ‘em in a bin and bring ‘em in!

2. Ditch the Plastic

Each year a household can spend up to $700 dollars on buying bottled water.  Choosing to purchase a reasonably priced filter or tap system will not only save you a lot of money in water purchases, but can also help alleviate the amount of plastic thrown away each year (which can be up to 22 billion bottles!).

3. Bags, Bags, Bags

Each year over 380 billion bags are used in the U.S.; that’s over 1,200 bags per person.  Of that 380 billion, only 1-2% gets recycled.  Many residents and shoppers are not aware they can recycle plastic bag, but you can just as you would a pop-can, soup-can, or milk jug.  Another great alternative to plastic bags is bringing your own bag.  Many stores give up to 5 cents for each reusable bag, so you’re doing the environment and your wallet a favor.

4. Better Bulbs

Using an energy efficient light bulb uses around 10 times less energy to create the same amount of light.  Not only are they better for the environment, but they’ll also save you money on your electric bill.

While we’re all for saving money and being more financially fit, we’re always invested in the well-being of our Members and community, and that includes the environment we all live in.  Recycling benefits all of us and our future posterity! Spread the love, go green!

We are People Helping People.


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Help Make Miracles

At St. Cloud Federal Credit Union, we are always looking for ways to contribute to others and strengthen our sense of community.  Since January 10^th, we have been participating in the Chain of Hearts fundraiser for Gillette Children’s Hospital of St. Paul, MN.  There’s still time for you to join the cause!  Until February 28^th, you can purchase a paper link ($1) or paper heart ($2) at either of our Sartell or St. Cloud locations. 

All proceeds raised will benefit the children at Gillette’s and their clinics across the state, helping to relieve the financial burdens of children with disabilities and chronic conditions.  Since 1897, Gillette Children’s Hospitals have been on the forefront of medical treatment, education, and research for children with a variety of disabilities.  Gillette’s mission is to help patients realize the greatest possible independence, well-being, and enjoyment in life.

In 2012, Minnesota credit unions partnered with the Children’s Miracle Network were able to raise over $41,000 for Gillette Children’s Hospitals.  Each personalized heart or link purchased are displayed in our lobbies, a first hand example of our People Helping People mission. 

We strongly encourage all our members, community residents, and area businesses to contribute in any way they can.  Please show your love for Minnesota’s kids by stopping in, writing your name on a heart, and donating what you can to support Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare.

For more information about Credit Unions 4 Kids, visit http://www.cu4kids.org/