ORNL FCU 75 Years

„ „ „

In 2009, with the economy still in freefall, ORNL Federal Credit Union doubled all efforts to be the financial strength its members needed to survive troubled times. The Laid Off Member Assistance Program offered guidance to at-risk members. Other options such as lower interest rates, loan extensions as needed, and referrals to resources for food, clothing, and utility assistance were offered. Free financial workshops were also provided at several branches that covered a range of topics such as online theft and first-time home buying. Online enhancements made that year included a new Twitter presence, live chat on the credit union’s website, and a host of online tools and resources to help those experiencing financial duress. Branches were also opened in Loudon and inside the Clinton Food City.

SOCIAL CHANNELS In recent years, social media has become an increasingly useful tool for ORNL Federal Credit Union. In 2009, the decision was made to align the credit union’s social media presence with its mission and goals to engage both members and potential members online. Since that time, ORNL FCU has built a social community across various channels, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn. This effort has dramatically improved the credit union’s ability to connect with and serve members and the online community in meaningful ways, including introducing new offerings and special promotions, educating members on best financial practices, promoting the ORNL FCU brand, and highlighting community events and programs. Members quickly embraced these new channels of engagement and the credit union’s online following has steadily grown over the years. To date, ORNL FCU’s social channels have attracted over forty-five thousand followers. Industry kudos also quickly followed: since 2017, the credit union has remained on the Financial Brand ’s list of Top 100 Credit Unions Using Social Media.

2008-2017 RISING ABOVE | 67