How We’ll Use Your Story
Every story shared helps us celebrate 50 years of moments that matter. Some stories may be featured just as they are—on our website, social media, or in our branches. Others might inspire us to reach out and learn more, with the opportunity to be showcased in a deeper way through video or other special features.
However it’s shared, your story is a meaningful part of our journey—and we’re honored to hear it.
Mike
Team member Mike shares how Community First has made a lasting difference in members’ lives.
Scott
Employee
Since becoming part of the Community First family in 1987, I have built many life-long relationships. My colleagues have seen me through good times and difficult times. It feels like family because I can always count on them. We do the same for our members, sometimes meeting them in their darkest hours. When they feel like they have nowhere else to turn ‘We’ll Find a Way.’ The best part is knowing that we are there for our friends, family, and members, helping to make our communities a better place to live and work.”
Jess
Employee
Community First has helped me find a way through several challenging seasons of life since joining the credit union over 15 years ago. From beginning a savings journey and building credit in my early 20s to refinancing my auto loan after an unexpected layoff at age 27, buying my first home at 30, jumpstarting the savings journey for my children, and most recently, navigating the financial challenges that come with divorce–they have partnered with me to make sure I always land on my feet. Through it all, I never felt embarrassed or judged for the state of my finances. Instead, I knew I could turn to CFCU for a steady, supportive partner whenever I needed it. That kind of relationship–particularly as a single, working mom of two–is absolutely invaluable. I am grateful every day to have Community First in my corner.
Craig
Employee
From my first day as a student teller in 2001 to sitting here today as SVP of Finance, I have had the privilege of growing alongside this incredible organization and its people-helping-people mission. I love being part of a team that shows up every single day with a purpose and passion for our member-owners. Community First has never been just a place to work—it is a family, a mission, and a movement. And while we have come a long way in 50 years, I truly believe the best is yet to come! Cheers!
It started simply—with people helping people.
1975
Founded as Appleton Community Credit Union on Richmond Street with Maury Dresang as President.
1978
12 other credit unions joined Appleton Community Credit Union in a historic, first-of-its-kind merger.
1983
Renamed to Community First Credit Union—reflecting our commitment to serve all communities.
1984
New branches open on Oneida Street in Appleton and on Forest Avenue in Neenah.
1987
Ballard Road branch in Appleton becomes our fourth location.
1988
Nicolet Road branch opens in Grand Chute.
1989
New branches open in Waupaca and on Industrial Drive in Neenah.
1994
Unveiled a new logo.
1999
Website and Online Banking go live at communityfirstcu.org.
2001
First Oshkosh branch opens on Westowne Drive.Expand to the lakeshore with the opening of the Manitowoc Branch.
2003
New branches open in Darboy and Greenville.
2005
New London branch opens.
2006
Nichols branch opens.
2008
Mason Street location opens.
2009
De Pere branch opens and the second Oshkosh branch opens on South Park Avenue.
2012
Howard branch opens and the third Neenah location opens on Winneconne Avenue.
2013
Two Rivers location opens.
2014
Bellevue branch opens to serve more Green Bay area members.
2015
New branch in Kimberly opens.
2016
New branch opens in downtown Menasha at the One Menasha building.
2019
Lake Park Road branch opens in Menasha.Core banking system upgraded, paving the way for faster service and better digital banking tools for members.
2020
Third Oshkosh location on Oregon Street opens.
2021
New Digital Banking platform launches.
