This past summer we’ve been out and about at dozens of community events to broaden our reach while sharing our credit union values and awesome member benefits. Our staff had a blast welcoming incoming freshman at Cal Poly and Allan Hancock colleges, meeting new families at Day in the Park in Santa Maria, and greeting auto enthusiasts at National Motorfest in San Luis Obispo (to name a few). With each presence, I am reflecting on the important role community plays in our lives and filled with hope as we enter the holiday season.
In an age where technology both connects and separates us, we continue to offer digital services with a human touch. Our new and improved mortgage loan application, soon-to-launch online chat experience, ongoing financial webinars and mobile app enhancements all are built with the unique needs of the Central Coast. Whether fully remote, in branch or a mix of both, your preferences are always top of mind.
We are happy to announce that dividend rates have been raised and you will see this on your statement included with this newsletter. There have been a couple of increases to the certificate rates across the board, and in September the regular share and money market rates, effective September 1. This provides members the option to keep a portion of savings liquid as well as investing in term certificate products. We will continue to carefully manage rate adjustments based on federal reserve movements going forward.
As we enter the final months of our 80th Anniversary, we are close to awarding the total of $40,000 that was pledged at the start of the year, with $500 going to 80 local nonprofits. Our employees have been submitting nominations for worthy recipients, and it has been a joy to read their kind and heartwarming comments. I’m reminded once again of community—in this case, one that supports organizations that make the Central Coast the best place to live.
We find community—or “our people”—in our favorite hobbies, the coffee shops we frequent, the fairs and festivals we attend or the nonprofits we support. These micro-communities unite us and we become a part of something greater than ourselves. By trade, SESLOC opens deposit accounts, funds loans and helps local businesses grow. But in heart, we support one another in the moments that matter—like planning a wedding, starting a family or celebrating under a holiday tree. Our people are why we are here. Community is what we do. Supporting over 100 local businesses with enhanced “local rewards” points on purchases with your HomeFREE Checking debit card and Visa Signature Rewards credit card is a win-win for all.
We are both humbled and proud to serve one of the largest communities within the Central Coast—now at 57,000 members strong. We appreciate the opportunity to support your financial goals and dreams, hopefully for generations to come. Wishing you and your families a safe, happy and healthy holiday season.
