November Anniversaries

Wauna Credit Union is growing fast (if you want to join us check out our careers page). The main reason for that is the great service our amazing employees provide our members. Employees celebrating anniversaries this month like to get out and about, and explore their world.

Brianna Malcolm – 11 years
What is your current position?
I am a Communication Center Representative III in the WCU Communication Center. The Communication Center serves as a virtual branch. We answer all of the phone calls for seven branches and help our members who call with any of their financial needs. Even though we don’t see the people we help, we have our regular members who we recognize by voice. It’s great to help members from all over.

What is your favorite WCU memory?
That happens every year. It’s being able to get together with everyone from all of our branches. Since we only talk to everyone on the phone I love getting together with everyone for training, Christmas parties or anything else we get together for. We are at work more than we are at home so everyone is considered our Wauna Work Family.

Picture of Brianna playing cornhole
Brianna is cornhole champion. Read the story at http://www.oregonlive.com/forest-grove/index.ssf/2014/06/brianna_malcolm_crowned_winner.html

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
My favorite thing to do outside of work is spend time with my family. We have a four-year-old daughter who is absolutely amazing and I love watching her grow and learn! We love to go camping and spending time outdoors.

Michael Woods – 6 Years
What is your current position?
I am a mortgage member consultant. I usually work out of our Mortgage Origination Office in Long Beach, but I am currently filling in working with our Warrenton members.

Michael in a helicopter
Michael gets ready to see Las Vegas from the air

What is your favorite WCU memory?
One of my favorite memories was when I was a member of the Lending Admin team. I helped a member get a loan. I was just doing what I felt was right, but he was so appreciative, and to this day he always thanks me, and shakes my hand, no matter where we are, or who we are with. It’s actually what inspired me to join the Mortgage Team. Just to think I could impact somebody’s life so much really gives my work purpose. You’re forever linked to your members, because you helped them get their home. It’s a great feeling, and one that I get to experience over and over.

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
When I am not at work, I like to spend time with my almost three-year-old daughter. It’s amazing to watch her grow up. I also enjoy playing cards, and watching sports. I am a die-hard New York Yankee and Dallas Cowboys fan. (Editor’s note, the views of our employees on the November Anniversary Post do not represent the views of the credit union. We cannot condone rooting for these two teams.)

Alex Peck– 4 Years
What is your current position?
I am an MC in the St. Helens branch.  I really enjoy my job.  I have grown fond of the relationships that I’ve formed with my members. It is great to see a member you’ve developed a friendship with over the years walk in the door.

Alex in a cable car
Alex loves to travel all over the west coast

What is your favorite WCU memory?
I loved the opportunity to volunteer a couple of years ago for the Columbia Humane Society Denim and Diamonds fundraiser.  Wauna was sponsoring the Humane Society that year.   The team I was on got to stage the event in the pavilion at the Columbia County Fairgrounds.

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
I love to travel and explore the Pacific Northwest.  Whether it be a quick trip out to the coast or a road trip up to Seattle or head south to Northern California.

Mark Crandall – 2 Years
What is your current position?
I’m a mortgage loan specialist. My job is to assist members with all of their home mortgage needs. It can be anything to helping a member purchase their first home, borrowing equity to do home improvements or lowering their payments to improve their cash flow.

Mark standing next to a tree he hit is golf ball into
We’ll call this a trick shot

What is your favorite WCU memory?
My favorite memory is helping a couple purchase their dream home on the Columbia River. They had a challenge with another lender before they came to us for help. We were able to work together and come up with a solution to get them qualified and make their dream a reality.

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
If I am not at work, I am with my wife. We enjoy spending time with our family, horseback riding and landscaping.

Jeremy Grover – 2 Years
What is your current position?
I currently am a Training Specialist II at our wonderful Learning Center in Westport.  I assist new hires to learn our mission and vision statements and explain how they impact everything we do. I also help current internal members learn our lending philosophies that help all to build their financial well-being. Continued training helps make our credit union the finest to not only work at, but to do business with.

What is your favorite WCU memory?
My favorite memory doesn’t come from being an employee, but from being a member. I grew up in Clatskanie and my parents had been members for as long as I can remember. When I turned 18, I had big plans to purchase my dream car from my parents (1969 Dodge Charger R/T). To my surprise, I wasn’t laughed at or criticized for my non practical choice in a first car,

Jeremy's Car
The car that started it all

but shown respect and dignity and soon after I was cruising Clatskanie with the car of my dreams!  That experience has stuck with me and has shown me the importance of treating people with respect and never judge a book by its cover and has lead me down a long history of lending with Wauna and encouraged me to apply so I could have that same impact on other members that may be starting out like I did so many years ago.  Two Goals met, I have a great career with Wauna and I still have my dream car.

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?

Jeremy with his family
Jeremy loves to spend time with family

Anything that involves spending time with my family.  My Dad taught me the importance of taking time to just hang out and enjoy every experience that your wife and children get to enjoy together.   I have never heard anyone say “I wish I didn’t spend all that time with my family”

Others

  • Teressa Wemmer –  11 Years

Thanks from WCU

This Thanksgiving as we gather around a table, to join with our friends and family the holiday season really starts to kick into gear. While Wauna Credit Union is closed today so that our member-employees can spend time with their families, we also wanted to extend a thanks to our members.

Thanks in neon

This season isn’t just about the food at the table, or the football on TV. It’s a time to reflect on our lives and what we are truly thankful for. This is just as important for a business as it is for individuals, so we wanted to take some time to write down what it is that we are all thankful for here at WCU.

  • First and foremost, thanks to our members. Without our members, we would not exist. We thank each and every one of you, from those who have been a member for all 50 years, to those who just joined yesterday.
  • Thanks to the communities we serve. One of the things that makes us special is we live within our communities. We get to see the daily impact the credit union has, but we also get to know our members and future members as friends.
  • Thanks to the future. You may have heard we announced we’re opening up a branch in Forest Grove, but we also see tons of future in our current communities as well. We know the only way the credit union will grow is by continuing to provide the best products and services.

We hope your holiday is filled with laughter and love this year! We welcome you to come visit us tomorrow as you get ready for your holiday shopping, and remember Triple Rewards Points start today through the 27th.

We’re also celebrating Shop Local with Columbia County Keep It Local, so come on by and support local businesses.

 

Watch out for those Grinches this Holiday Season

https://waunafcu.org/blog/equifax-breach-part-2/
Watch out for Grinches

The National Retail Association reports that 164 million Americans will go shopping this Thanksgiving week, including on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and on Small Business Saturday and Sunday. All in all, the average consumer is expected to spend $967 this year.

So, whether you brave the mall, keep it local, or get caught up in the online shopping frenzy this holiday season, it’s important that you keep yourself safe from the bad guys out there.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help!

Spend Wisely

How much are you shelling out to spread that holiday cheer? Wauna Credit Union wants you to find that perfect gift, without spending yourself silly. Here are some simple guidelines:

  • Make a list of people you want to buy gifts for and stick to it.
  • Set a budget limit. As they say, “It’s the thought that counts.”
  • Use the best credit card. As a not-for-profit cooperative, we can offer lower interest rates on credit cards than many profit-driven financial services providers.

Protect your credit cards

As a smart consumer, you can shop with confidence this holiday season. But be weary of fraudsters and scams that are all too prevalent.

  • Keep a list of all your account numbers in a safe place, just in case you need to report it if one is lost or stolen.
  • At the cash register, protect your PIN by blocking the keypad from view of others. We suggest resting your fingers on other keys as you enter your PIN.
  • Do not use public wireless networks for online purchases.
  • Use our online account monitoring service and immediately report any suspicious activity to us.
  • Shop on sites with https:// in the URL, and be sure that an icon with a lock appears to the left. The “s” stands for “secure” and indicates communication with that site is encrypted.
  • Type the merchant’s address directly into your browser; avoid links.
  • Use complicated passwords with at least eight characters. Include numbers, special characters, and upper and lower-case numbers.
  • In addition, keep the antivirus and security software updated on your computers and mobile devices.
  • We also recommend that you don’t store your payment information on shopping sites or shopping apps.
  • Finally, take a look at our guide concerning the Equifax breach as well. You can view it here.

Shop Safely

Don’t let the Grinch steal the whole season either. When you go shopping, park in well-lit areas. Walk to and from the stores with your head up and be watchful. Thugs look for people who are not paying attention. Keep your keys in your hand so you can hit the panic alarm if you need to. Unfortunately, ‘tis the season for pickpockets, too. Probably a good idea to keep wallets in zipped purses and front pockets.

Compare Online Deals

What a wonderful time-saver online shopping is!  We know a lot of sites will claim to have great deals, particularly on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but they may not have the lowest price. If you find something you like, do a little comparison shopping by using sites such as Google Shopping or Pricewatch.com.

Give Yourself a Gift

Invest in “you” this holiday season because hey, you deserve it. Open a new savings account, take financial education classes, or look for low interest loans to help you achieve your financial dreams this coming year. Come see us or visit us online for all of those dreamy possibilities.

A List of Veterans Day VIP Treatments

“While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor ALL those who served honorably in the military – in wartime or peacetime.” – The Department of Veterans Affairs 

Wauna Credit Union holds dear those red, white, and blue fibers binding the values and principles of the United States.

We hold dear the sacrifices, victories, and triumphs that have been made throughout history so that we might sleep a little sounder at night.

We hold dear the men and women who fight for those fibers, for our freedoms, and for our county.

Please join us in further celebrating this very special day by taking a look at (and participating in!) the following list of celebrations, giveaways, and veteran-exclusive VIP treatment.

Oregon Veterans Day Celebrations:

Statewide list: The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs posts a list of Veterans Day events across the state on its website.

Ross Hollywood Chapel Veterans Day Parade: 9:30 a.m. Nov. 11, Hollywood District in Portland. Begins at Northeast 40th Avenue and Tillamook Street and turns east onto Northeast Sandy Boulevard concluding at 48th Avenue at the flag pole in front of Ross Hollywood Chapel for a flag raising ceremony.

Fort Vancouver Veterans Day Parade: 11 a.m. Nov. 11, begins at Fort Vancouver National Site at Evergreen Boulevard and East Reserve Street, see website for route. There will be a 10 a.m. ceremony before the parade.

Veterans Day Observance, Beaverton: 11 a.m. Sat. Nov. 11, Bethel Congregational, United Church of Christ, 5150 S.W. Watson Ave. Family friendly community memorial service with choir organized by American Legion Post 124.

Estacada Veterans Day Parade11 a.m. Sat., Nov. 11, begins at Estacada High School, 355 N.E. Sixth Ave., travels down Main Street to Fourth Street then turns right on Broadway Street, ends at the Veterans Memorial with a ceremony. Hosted by Estacada Area Support Our Troops Foundation.

Washington County’s Annual Veterans Day Ceremony, Hillsboro: 11 a.m.-noon, Sat., Nov. 11. Washington County Veterans Memorial, Northeast Veterans Drive and Northeast 34th Avenue, Hillsboro. Hosted by Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services; Memorial Fund for Veterans of Washington County; VFW 2666 and American Legion 104. Features Doug Lund, a West Point graduate with a degree in military history, who will talk about significant historical events as they relate to being a veteran, with a focus on World War I. Local recording artist Alena Sheldon will sing the national anthem.

Veterans Day Observance Ceremony, Wilsonville: 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, Oregon Korean War Memorial in Town Center Park, 29600 S.W. Park Place. Event includes a speaker, performances of the “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Taps,” posting of colors, and cadets’ readings about the significance of Veterans Day. Organized by Korean War Veterans Association, Oregon Trail Chapter.

Free Veterans Day Musical Review, Portland: noon Saturday, Nov. 11, German American Society, 5626 N.E. Alameda St. USO-style musical variety show by Tony Starlight and an eight-piece band performing songs covering several decades of American popular music. Lunch provided for the first 250 guests.

City of Cornelius Veterans Day Celebration1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, Veterans Memorial Park, Baseline Street between 12th and 13th Avenues. Keynote speaker is veteran and Washington County Commissioner Bob Terry. Event includes a 7-gun salute by the VFW veterans group, a welcome by Cornelius Mayor Jeffrey Dalin, singing and bagpiper performance. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard will post the colors. Hosted in conjunction with American Legion and VFW groups throughout Washington County.

Statewide Veterans Day Celebration, Salem: 2 p.m. Sat. Nov. 11, Oregon World War II Memorial, Court and Cottage streets, Salem. Hosted by Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs. Honoring and remembering the achievements and contributions of all of Oregon’s veterans. Featuring remarks by Joshua Groesz, Iraq combat veteran and executive director of The Salvation Army’s Veterans and Family Center, and Marianne McNally, daughter of Don Malarkey, WWII hero and member of famed 101st Airborne’s Easy Company, who died in September at 96. Also a color guard, national anthem, laying of the wreath and the playing of “Taps.”

Troutdale Lions Club Free Spaghetti Dinner for Veterans: 4:30-6 p.m. Nov. 11, Sam Cox Building, Glenn Otto Park, 1106 E. Historic Columbia River Highway, Troutdale. Community members are invited to say thank you to veterans. Please bring three non-perishable food items.

Veteran’s Dinner, Forest Grove: 12:30 p.m. Sun. Nov. 12, Forest Grove Elks Lodge, 2810 Pacific Ave. A dinner and dance for Veterans of the Forest Grove Community. Vintage Country Band will perform from 2:30pm to 5pm. Free for veterans, donations requested from non-veterans

Freebies, Perks, Discounts:

Denny’s:  Free Build Your Own Grand Slam breakfast from 5 a.m. until noon on Friday, Nov. 10.

IHOP: Free Red, White & Blue Pancakes on Friday, Nov. 10.

Applebees: Free meal from a limited menu on Saturday, Nov. 11.

Buffalo Wild Wings: One free small order of traditional or boneless wings and a side of fries. All day on Saturday, Nov. 11. (Participating locations only)

California Pizza Kitchen: Free entree from a special menu that includes pizza, salads and pasta on Saturday, Nov. 11. (Locations in Clackamas Town Center and Bridgeport).

Chevys Fresh Mex: Free Fresh Mex 3-Item combo from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11. (Locations in Lask Oswego and Hillsboro)

Chuck E. Cheese: One free personal pizza on Saturday, Nov. 11.

Country Pride: Free meal from a select menu with a drink on Saturday, Nov. 11 (Locations in Aurora and Troutdale)

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store: Free Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake dessert on Saturday, Nov. 11. (Location in Tualatin)

Famous Dave’s: Free two meat combo on Saturday, Nov. 11. (Locations in Tualatin and Cascade Station in Portland)

Hooters: Free meal from a select menu on Saturday, Nov. 11. (Location in Portland)

Little Caesars Pizza: Free $5 Hot-N-Ready Lunch Combo from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt: Free six ounce frozen yogurt all day on Saturday, Nov. 11 (Multiple locations around Portland metro area)

Outback Steakhouse: Free Bloomin Onion and a drink on Saturday, Nov. 11. Receive 20 percent off your check from Nov. 12-16.

​​​​​​Red Lobster: Free appetizer or dessert from a select menu on Saturday, Nov. 11

Red Robin: Free dine-in Red’s Tavern Double Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries on Saturday, Nov. 11

Ruby Tuesday: Free appetizer on Saturday, Nov. 11

Shari’s Cafe: Free pancake breakfast on Saturday, Nov. 11

Sizzler: Free lunch and beverage before 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11

Texas Roadhouse: Free special lunch menu including a drink on Saturday, Nov. 11 (Location in Eugene)

Village Inn: Free breakfast special on Saturday, Nov. 11 (Multiple locations in and around Portland)

Image result for veterans day

The Holiday Season is All About Rewards

I know it’s a bit early to start thinking about decking the halls, and planning holiday dinners, but as the calendar turns to November, well at least as the date on your smartphone says November, and the weather begins to cool, it’s time to admit that the holiday season is upon us. At Wauna Credit Union, we want to be the first to give you a gift. That’s why in November and December, all purchases on your Wauna Credit Union Visa Reward Credit Card will earn Double Rewards Points. In fact to make it even sweeter, when you make purchases November 23-27 and on December 24 will earn Triple Rewards Points!*

Now what you do with those rewards points is up to you. If you go to https://www.scorecardrewards.com you can get an idea of what is available (short answer is almost everything!). At WCU we recommend you spend them on yourself as a January treat to yourself for all your hard work. There are even deep see fishing excursions, a St. Maarten getaway for two, and family Disneyland vacations.

A few suggestions;

The Family Matriarch Reward PackHand Spa
Make a cup in your 4-Cup Espresso & Cappuccino machine, set up your SlumberScents Aroma Diffuser, then sit in your Shiatsu Pro Plus Kneading Massage Cushion with Heat, play some music from your SoundLink Revolve Bluetooth speaker and read a book on your Fire HD8. If you’re interested you can even relax with the Conair Massaging Hand Spa.

 

The Outdoor Pack

Trail Camera

Get some steaks, burgers and franks from Omaha Steaks, throw them in your Yeti Roadie 20 and head to your favorite campsite. Find a good spot for your Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Aggressor 24MP No-Glow Trail Camera. Make sure you don’t wait until it’s dark when you set up your Coleman two-burner propane stove and  8-person tent, or you’ll have to use your 350-Lumen LED IllumiLast aluminum flashlight.

The Gamer Pack
Gamers are a different group. Whether you’re playing Call of Duty, Madden 17, or something else. Make sure you’re sitting in you gaming chair in front of your Sony 75-Inch Black Ultra HD 4K HDR LED Smart HDTV. That is unless you get the PlayStation VR Bundle. You’ll have to stand for that.
TV

The Not For Us
There’s an almost unlimited amount of items available. Please get whatever you want. We however will probably not get the cordless ear vacuum.

*VISA Rewards Credit Cardholders will earn Double Rewards Points for purchases during Nov. & Dec. 2017. They earn Triple Rewards Points for purchases conducted Nov. 23-27 & Dec. 24, 2017. Rewards Points are not transferable. Membership with Wauna Credit Union is required. This special offer ends Dec. 31, 2017.

 

Happy 10th Anniversary to our Fearless Leader!

10 Years, 10 Questions with Wauna Credit Union CEO and President, Robert Blumberg…

We are all about taking care of our members and improving their financial well-being. – Robert Blumberg

Robert Blumberg

Hailing from South Africa, he has lived and worked in California, but calls Oregon home. He’s a family man. He’s a numbers man. He loves traveling, being outdoors, good food, and the Credit Union spirit. His financial background boasts top-roles with Southern Pacific Bank, First Bank of Beverly Hills, and as a matter of fact, Maps Credit Union here in Oregon.

But 2007 was the year when Mr. Robert Blumberg joined the Wauna Credit Union team, taking the helm as our President and CEO. And while it’s true that many “waun-derful” things are occurring under Robert’s guidance, here are just a few noteworthy examples from the past ten years:

  • Two branches were opened in 2010. The first, being an in-store branch at the Astoria Safeway in July, and the second, a new Scappoose Branch in November.
  • Recognizing construction in accordance with energy-efficient building materials & practices, the Scappoose Branch was awarded LEED Certification at the Silver level in August of 2011.
  • Our beautiful, new Warrenton Branch (near Costco) was opened during mid-Spring of 2013.
  • The opening of a new Branch along Hwy 30 took place in St Helens in 2014.
  • In November of 2016, a Mortgage Origination Office was opened in Long Beach, WA.
  • Wauna Credit Union was granted a charter expansion to include Washington County in June of 2016.
  • Also, our first Interactive Teller Machine was implemented in Long Beach, WA in November of 2016.

And how could we forget the numbers? Let’s take a look at a then and now:

  • In 2007 our membership was at 14,083. In contrast, we are now at 24,728 — a 75.58% growth!
  • When Robert started, our assets were at $104.6 million. Today, we are at $234.6 million — a 124.28% growth!
  • Ten years ago we had 5 financial centers and 58 employees at Wauna Credit Union. Today, we have 8 financial centers and employ 105!

Of course, these lists barely scratch the surface; however, they are valid indicators of the innovation and growth that Robert has brought to Wauna Credit Union. And while we are certainly looking forward to another awesome ten years, let’s pause for a minute, and take a closer look at Robert’s life:

1. Growing up, who was the most influential person in your life?
My father.

2. Speaking of influence, how about musically? What was your favorite album as a teenager?
Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon.

3. We all start somewhere. What was your very first job?
RM Pharmaceuticals – They made Vicks and Oil of Olay products.

4. And what year did you first enter the financial industry?
I got my start in 1982.

5. 1982 is a world away from where you are today. Where exactly did you get your start?
I started working for a company called Century Thrift and Loan. When I started working there in the accounting department I did not even have a title.

6. Speaking of history, if you could meet anyone particularly, who would it be?
The person I would love to meet is Alan Greenspan.

7. All things considered, what would you like to talk about?
Having a conversation as to what he thinks went wrong during the last great recession in 2009. He believes in the free market and the free market will be self-policing.

8. What is your greatest hope for the Credit Union industry, presently?
Continuing to grow in market share. We are all about taking care of our members and improving their financial well-being. It is important that the insurance agency remains independent from the banks. It would be a big mistake to merge the NCUA and FDIC.

9. indeed. We talk a lot about “People Helping People” in Credit Union philosophy, but we certainly also aim to please. Altogether, what would you say is your definition of “happiness”?
You should ideally be taking an action every day to bring you one step closer to achieving of your goals. Of course, meeting my personal and professional goals gives me deep satisfaction.

10. Many awesome things have taken place under your leadership, but what accomplishment at Wauna Credit Union are you most proud of?
Building an amazing team that has taken Wauna to new heights. In fact, emphasizing each team member’s contribution and demonstrating how all of their jobs operate together to move the entire team closer to its goal are very important to me.

Without a doubt, Robert believes in our members. He believes in our staff. He believes in the movement.

To sum up, reaching future goals is an exciting prospect. We thank you, Robert, for bringing us this far! From all of us at Wauna Credit Union, it’s an honor and specifically a privilege to have such a waun-derful CEO.

Credit Unions Worldwide Celebrate International Credit Union Day (ICU Day)

“Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others.” ― Booker T. Washington

Today ― together with some 68,000 credit unions, spanning 109 countries, serving 235 million members ― Wauna Credit Union celebrates ICU Day. Whether a member is rich or poor, from a village or city, credit unions are on duty 24/7, across cultures and languages, helping others realize their dreams.

We call this “The Credit Union Difference”.

When did this start? Well, in 1948 (the year when the first tape recorder was sold and fare on the NYC subway cost 10 cents) the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) established a national “Credit Union Day”. Fast forward 69 years to today’s aptly-named “Dreams Thrive Here” celebration.

“Dreams Thrive Here” spotlights how Credit Unions are transforming goals into realities. It is this community commitment that separates us from banks. Because we are different…very different…both in philosophy and structure.

And in the spirit of ICU Day, let’s recognize all credit unions for the roles they play. Think of the people who would have been unable to afford homes, businesses, or education without credit unions. Together, we are helping people overcome challenges.

Wauna Credit Union opened its doors in 1967 with a mission to help others. Our mission hasn’t changed: we are providing opportunities for our members to build their financial well-being. With your support, Wauna Credit Union has grown to over 24,000 members.

Overall, it is your recognition of the contributions that credit unions make that is beyond awesome it’s superhero status. We thank YOU for joining us in celebrating ICU Day.

One smile per member, one member at a time, Wauna Credit Union will continue working around the clock to build a stronger world.

We look forward to serving you, and we look forward to serving your family, for many dreams to come.

ICU Day

October Anniversaries

Wauna Credit Union is growing fast (if you want to join us check out our careers page). The main reason for that is the great service our amazing employees provide our members. Our October anniversary celebrants are always hard at work to provide the best possible member service.

One employee not highlighted below is our CEO Robert Blumberg who celebrated 10 years of leading the charge for WCU on October 1st. Look for a blog from Robert later in the month looking back at the last 10 years, and forward towards the next 10.

Sharon Borgardt – 23 Years
What is your current position?
As the Chief Human Resources Officer I supervise the HR Department; serve on our executive team; oversee hiring, employee benefits, payroll and legal compliance regarding employment; and assist all employees to ensure their needs are heard and addressed. Our employees are what sets Wauna apart. Making sure we hire the right people to serve our members—and making sure those employees have what they need to succeed—is a responsibility I don’t take lightly.  I especially appreciate Wauna’s dedication to providing growth opportunities for our employees.

What is your favorite WCU memory?
I have it every day. The most gratifying part of my job is helping our employees.  This includes ensuring that our employees have great benefits.  One benefit that means a lot to our employees is our Sick Leave Donation program that allows employees to donate Sick Time to an employee in need, who has exhausted their Sick Time due to a serious medical condition.  I love being able to inform an employee in need that their generous and caring co-workers donated enough Sick Time to cover their absence.

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
I enjoy spending time and traveling with family and friends.  Between us, my husband Ron and I we have great 5 kids and 4 wonderful granddaughters.  We rescue Great Pyrenees dogs; our current fur babies are Bob and Mica, and they are very special to us, too.  I have lived in Astoria for 23 years and it’s been amazing to experience the growth of the area. We love all the arts and really delicious food options in the area, while still being so close to nature!

Sharon and her husband Ron with dogs

Sara Kulp – 6 Years
What is your current position?
I’m currently the training manager, my position is to train our new internal members and provide ongoing training for the credit union. WCU really believes in giving all team members the foundation to build their career, which makes this an incredibly rewarding position. I also support oncoming projects and help implement the training process. Previously I was the branch manager for our St. Helens branch. It was tough to give up the face-to-face interactions with our members, but great to know I’m helping teach people how to give the same friendly service I would.

Sara in Hawaii

What is your favorite WCU memory?
This past year I had the opportunity to put together and host our in-service day. It’s a day where all if the employees get together and kick off the year, talk about successes and what will be happening in the next year. We all had a blast and I will never forget the energy and excitement that we had that day.

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
I love to travel, read and spend time with family. I have three sons. One graduated and is now proudly serving our country in the Air Force, the other two are still at home and keep us so busy with all their activities.

Kailynn Daum – 6 Years
What is your current position?
I am a Training Specialist. I get to use my experience from being on the front line to teach our internal members (employees) in a variety of areas to help them better serve our members. I love that Wauna is committed to education and opportunity, and that I get to be a big part of that.

What is your favorite WCU memory?
My favorite memory with the credit union is becoming certified and facilitating our most recent TMA seminar for 28 of our newest employees. The Member Advantage is the service philosophy that we have adopted here at Wauna, and just one of the ways that the Credit Union invests in our employees success. I love being a part of our employees growth and development and it was so rewarding to see the Training Team’s hard work pay off.

Kailynn in Greece

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
When I am not at work I love to travel and experience the world with my husband, Alex. When we’re not out exploring, I enjoy practicing yoga, kayaking, spending time with friends and family, and being a dog mom to my three pups.

Samantha Wiser – 5 years
What is your current position?
I’m an MC III in the St. Helens branch. I am proud that I get to assist the members in my community with their financial goals. It is very rewarding for me to see our members achieve their dreams!Sam taking a selfie

What is your favorite WCU memory?
I like to have fun while helping our members and teammates. My fun memories are all about laughing and making coming into the credit union a good time, instead of a chore.

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
If I’m not at work I’m outside playing. Whether it’s hiking, camping, or rafting I like being active. My favorite thing to do is Kayak the sloughs on the Columbia and explore Sand Island. I’ve been going there since I was a kid!

Marti Gwin – 1 Year
What is your current position?
I’m the internal auditor at Wauna. My job is to look at processes within the credit union to evaluate if we are effectively managing risk. My goal is to provide feedback that gives insight to managers about their areas of operation in a way that enhances and adds value to what they do. I like to say I’m an extra pair of eyes to help us be the best we can be and do the best that we can do for our members. Prior to being an employee, I was a member of Wauna’s Board of Directors. The Board works with our CEO Robert and the rest of the Leadership Team to set the roadmap for the credit union. It really is a rewarding experience.

What is your favorite WCU memory?
I recently had the opportunity to help at the Wauna booth during one of the 13 Nights on the River concerts in St. Helens. It was fun hanging out with Josh and Stephanie from the Marketing Team while listening to great music and greeting people as they wandered by the booth. The Wauna kazoos where a big hit with everyone and we even gave a few kazoo lessons!

What is something you like to do when you’re not at work?
I love to spend time with other people. Hanging out  with my husband of 31 years is a favorite past time, I also teach a weekly women’s Bible study at my house, regularly visit a few older friends who can’t get out any more, and I try to make arrangements to meet a friend for coffee or a meal every week. People energize me!

Marti and the Ops team

Others

  • Diana Phipps – 4 Years
  • Summer Douglas – 1 Year

The Equifax Breach – A Comprehensive Guide Part 2

UPDATE 9.26.18: Starting 9.21.18, a new federal law allows people to freeze and unfreeze their credit at the three major credit bureaus without being charged. Before, it cost consumers in almost half the states $3 to $12 per bureau to freeze or unfreeze their credit reports. For more information read the article found at https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2018/09/21/equifax-free-credit-freeze-new-law/1377815002/

There’s been a lot of news about the Equifax breach recently. We put together a guide to help our members understand what happened, and how to protect your information.

Our CEO Robert Blumberg has written a letter on the steps we are taking to ensure our members are protected. You can find the letter at https://waunafcu.org/blog/robert_blumberg_letter/. 

Who is Equifax?

Equifax Logo

Equifax is a consumer reporting agency and one of the three largest credit bureaus in the nation. These bureaus retain the aggregate credit information of some 800 million American and Canadian citizens, including more than 88 million businesses internationally.

Why would they have my sensitive information?

Credit card companies, banks, credit unions, retailers, auto lenders, and mortgage lenders all report details of your credit activity to credit reporting agencies. Whenever you open an account extending credit, that company or entity reports to these bureaus.

What happened?

In May of 2017, hackers trolling the internet discovered an Equifax server using outdated Apache software vulnerable to attack.

What was stolen and how many were compromised?

Social Security numbers, birth-dates, addresses, names, driver’s license numbers, credit card numbers, and other documents. This breach is affecting more than 143 million US-based users.

Have I been breached?

Many of our members are wondering if they are affected, and if so what to do. The FTC has provided some guidance, but we have included some main steps below. If you do find that you were included, don’t worry, but protect yourself and take advantage of the Equifax services for those whose information was made available.

What do I do?

Guarding your personal information is a huge priority for Wauna Credit Union. By using advanced fraud-monitoring technology, our committed staff is watching your accounts. Although in the wake of the Equifax breach, thieves may be more prevalent in their attempts to steal your information. They might try one or many of the following:

  • Fraudsters are sourcing phone numbers to contact the Credit Union (caller IDs are displaying member’s actual phone number).
  • Impostors are saying they are members. They are providing accurate information when we ask questions to ID them.
  • Placing fake travel notifications. Fraudsters are then using cards outside of our members’ normal usage areas.

We understand how overwhelming identity theft can be. But there are ways to protect yourself, including steps you can take right now.

1. First of all, finding out if your data has been exposed is where you need to start. You can do this by entering your last name and the last six digits of your Social Security number at Equifax’s website*.
*As of 09/29/2017 this service has been listed as “temporarily unavailable”. Continue to check regularly as Equifax catches up to mass inquiries.

2. Whether or not you’ve been compromised, U.S. Equifax consumers are eligible for year of free credit monitoring and other services**. The site has provided a date when you can come back to enroll.
**Equifax has confirmed people who enroll in the credit monitoring program as a result of the breach would not waive their right to class action.

3. Using strong passwords is helpful. Also important is being aware of the information you provide when transferring secure information.

4. Reviewing your free credit reports is essential. Get started here.

5. Monitoring your accounts for unusual activity is key! Accounts on your credit reports that you didn’t open, or credit inquiries from entities you’ve never contacted are red flags. If you find evidence of fraud, let us and/or the appropriate financial institution know right away.

6. Open a “My Social Security account”, preventing bad guys from creating accounts in your name.

7. In addition, consider placing a credit freeze. Placing a credit freeze makes it more difficult for a thief to open an account in your name. A credit freeze will not stop a thief from changing your accounts.

8. Setting a fraud alert. This requires creditors to verify your identity before issuing a credit card, opening a new account, or increasing a credit limit on an existing account. A fraud alert will not stop a lender from opening credit in your name. Yet it does require lenders to take additional steps in verifying your identity. Better to be safe than sorry.

9. In the event that your identity has been compromised, file an identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov or by phone at 1-877-438-4338.

10. Because of increasing attacks, some people are theorizing that we will see an increase in tax return fraud. If possible, file taxes early this year.

Also, be vigilant in watching accounts you have outside of the Credit Union and don’t click on suspicious links or open attachments. Additionally, do not respond to emails, text messages, or phone calls that are soliciting your information — no matter who the caller is claiming to be.

In the meantime, Wauna Credit Union is working around the clock to safeguard your finances. We are here to answer questions and address concerns.

For a list of FAQs regarding the breach, please visit https://goo.gl/tGWzP2, and as always, we are here if you have questions or concerns you wish to discuss.

Jobs at WCU – Careers With Growth

Wauna Credit Union has been growing like crazy. That growth, and our belief in promoting from within, means we have a bunch of new jobs throughout Clatsop County and Columbia County.

If you thrive on helping others, consider a career at Wauna Credit Union! Our employees are proud of our “people helping people” philosophy. They work hard to make a difference for others through Wauna CU’s mission and vision. Jobs at WCU are career opportunities in a growing credit union that believes in serving members.

Oregon Business Magazine even recognized us as a “Top 100 Nonprofit” to work for in Oregon.

Oregon Business 100 Best nonprofits to work for in Oregon 2015 Oregon Business 100 Best green workplaces in Oregon 2016

We put together a video to highlight what working for WCU is all about.

A more detailed listing of all job openings can always be found on our Careers Page: https://waunafcu.org/about/careers.shtml

If you’d like to see all of our current openings, please visit our website https://secure2.saashr.com/ta/WFCUG16.jobs?ShowAllOpenings