Q&A: Tulare County Federal Credit Union

Q&A: Tulare County Federal Credit Union

An interview with Maribel Cano, Marketing & Business Development Manager

Photos by Topograph

A steadfast pillar for our diverse community, Tulare County Federal Credit Union (TCFCU) has a rich history, spanning decades. They are dedicated to their members, providing trusted financial solutions, personalized service, and unwavering support to help individuals and families thrive. As a member-owned cooperative, they prioritize the good of the community, empowering members with tools to achieve their financial aspirations.

At Tulare County Credit Union every member is valued, and ever dream is attainable

Lifestyle: What sets Tulare County Federal Credit Union (TCFCU) apart from other financial institutions? How does it uniquely serve the needs of our community?

TCFCU: Tulare County Federal Credit Union was founded in 1939 to provide financial services to educators. However, in 2002, we decided to expand our services to the community while maintaining our dedication to education. Education is part of our history and ingrained in our DNA. Now, we are proud to have established a high school branch—the only one in the county at present. We take great pride in the accomplishments of our program and would be delighted to extend it to other local high schools.

Lifestyle: Many community members may be unfamiliar with the benefits of banking with a federal credit union. Please explain the advantages of joining TCFCU and how it differs from traditional banks.

TCFCU: Traditional banks are typically owned by shareholders, but credit unions like TCFCU are member-owned. Plus, we have a pretty amazing volunteer-based Board of Directors. When you join TCFCU, you become a member-owner and get to enjoy lower fees, competitive rates, and personalized service.

Lifestyle: Can you share the positive impact your financial institution has made on the lives of its members and the broader community?

TCFCU: In addition to saving our members money, we are proudly committed to fostering financial literacy among students. Through Bite-of-Reality, a real-life simulation program, we provide an interactive experience that empowers teens to make informed financial decisions. This hands-on activity not only equips them with essential money management skills but also offers a deeper understanding of the realities and challenges of budgeting and financial planning. By investing in the financial education of our youth, we’re helping to build a more financially savvy and resilient community for the future.

We were able to refinance our home with a low interest and payment we could afford. We were able to build a pool for our family...something we never thought we could do. The joy and excitement that our boys had when swimming in the pool for the first time and the memories we are going to be able to build throughout the years will be amazing. Thank you! - Jeanette

Lifestyle: Along with those efforts, you have the only student-run high school branch in the county. Can you share about its purpose and mission?

TCFCU: The high school branch located in Porterville serves a multitude of purposes. First, it serves as an educational platform where students learn essential skills in personal finance. Second, it offers a unique work-based learning environment for our student interns, providing them with hands-on experience in various aspects of Credit Union operations, ranging from marketing to basic lending practices. Last, it fosters invaluable relationships with students, as we become some students' trusted primary financial institution; for others, this relationship leads to potential career opportunities. Currently, our Member Support Officer and Compliance Officer are our first and second-year student interns.

Lifestyle: Technology is rapidly changing the banking industry. How does TCFCU leverage technology to enhance members’ banking experience while still maintaining a personal touch?

TCFCU: We're passionate about balancing updated technology for a seamless digital banking experience, while ensuring personalized service at our local branches. Recently, we implemented system upgrades to ensure smoother account access. While our digital banking platform allows members to handle nearly all banking needs online, we understand the importance of human interaction. So: Even in the digital realm, you can engage with real, knowledgeable staff members through our contact center message system. No automated bots here—just real people wanting to help.

Lifestyle: Looking ahead, what exciting developments or initiatives can community members expect from Tulare County Federal Credit Union in the coming months or years?

TCFCU: Get ready to see more of us in your community! We love being involved in local events and collaborating with schools. We particularly enjoy engaging with students through events like Bite-of-Reality. In 2025, we’ll be expanding and opening a new branch in northwest Visalia. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to grow and serve our community even better!

I had the opportunity to work with a couple amazing folks at the credit union and they have supported my wife and I by helping us finance our car and even our wedding. A self-professed money idiot, they have helped me learn more about and improve my financial health. -Tom

Branch Locations: Visalia, Tulare, and Porterville (559) 686-1791 or 844-720-2901 | tularefcu.org