We've missed seeing your friendly smiles since our lobbies have been operating on an appointment-only and drive-thru basis. We are looking forward to easing back into our normal operations and reopening our branches the day after the Memorial Holiday on Tuesday, May 26th at 8 am.
Here's what you need to know before stopping by:
- We will be utilizing floor markers to help you maintain a safe distance from others.
- There will be hand sanitizer at entry and exit points for your use.
- Our online and mobile banking platforms, as well as drive-thrus and ATMs are always available if you prefer to take advantage of those options.
If you need to schedule an appointment before the 26th, click here.
To respect those around you, we ask that if you demonstrate symptoms consistent with COVID-19 that you please utilize our electronic services or drive-thru access as much as possible.
We appreciate your understanding during this time and we look forward to seeing you soon!
Thank you,
Jake Robinson
President/CEO
posted May 15, 2020
Previous Messages
Recently added as a SBA loan program, the Paycheck Protection Program provides federally-guaranteed loans to eligible small businesses. Loans can be up to $10 million and may be partially forgivable. These loans are intended to help small businesses retain employees throughout and after the Covid-19 crisis.
Champion Credit Union's role as an integrated member of the Western North Carolina community is top priority, regardless of current events. We understand that a strong, successful community directly correlates with our own successes.
While we are not a certified SBA lender, we have worked to establish an application portal to send small business applications to a nationwide network of certified SBA lenders, of which one will take the requests to process. The portal will guide small business members through the application process and explain what documentation is required.
Along with starting the application, this portal will also connect members with their certified SBA lender and allow them to check the status of applications, as well as receive important updates and information regarding their case.
Posted April 7, 2020
We have made it through our first week with all of the changes due to the federal and state mandates regarding Covid-19. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate these unique times.
Here are a few important updates and reminders:
Ways to Reduce Wait Time
Fridays tend to be the busiest days for Champion Credit Union. This particular Friday will be especially busy with it being the 3rd of the month as well. Here are some tips to help reduce your wait time:
- Stop by and take care of any business earlier in the week, if possible.
- Utilize all lanes of the drive-thru when possible. We have employees working each lane to help expedite transactions for you, sanitizing the drive-thru tubes regularly.
- Each office has a night depository on the outside of the building near its ATM or drive-thru window that is being checked each hour during normal business hours. Feel free to use this space to drop off deposits and/or loan payments.
Canceled: 88th Annual Meeting
To protect the health and well-being of everyone who would be in attendance, we are following the gathering limitations that have been set in place by Governor Roy Cooper and have decided to cancel the Champion Credit Union 88th Annual Meeting event at the Canton Armory.
This is an event that allows us to connect with so many of you each year, but the health of our community remains top priority. In lieu of a physical business meeting, we will be holding a teleconference for the business portion of the event. Members who wish to participate can contact our office for further instructions.
We will provide copies of our annual report, as well as notes from our President/CEO, Jake Robinson, our Board of Directors, and our Committee Chairmen. Upon reviewing these documents, you will find that 2019 was an exceptional year for your credit union and we look forward to continuing to serve you and your financial needs.
Payment Extensions Available
We understand that many of our members may be experiencing financial hardships during this unique time. Accommodations for members who have been financially impacted by COVID-19 related events are available. Please contact our Loan Servicing Team at 828-648-1515 to further discuss your options.
Posted March 30, 2020
I know what you’re thinking, “here we go again, what is he saying now?” but it is my belief that transparency and communication is more important now than ever before.
We are undoubtedly amid some of the most volatile, unique times the global markets have ever experienced. Businesses have temporarily closed, employees are without work, and even most banks and credit unions have altered their operational functions to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.
One situation I want to address with you, our members, is whether your money is safe with Champion Credit Union. A typical reaction during pandemic situations is to withdraw cash and attempt to secure it at home because you feel uncertain about future events.
This is simply not the best course of action.
First and foremost, your deposits are insured with the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) up to at least $250,000. Dependent upon joint owners and beneficiaries, this insured amount could be even greater.
Secondly, Champion Credit Union is blessed to maintain a strong, healthy financial position that is prepared to withstand difficult market conditions. Credit unions are required to have a capital ratio of at least 7% to be considered “well capitalized” by NCUA. As of March 1, 2020, our capital ratio is 11.85%. While this metric is not singularly representative of strong financials, it does provide an illustration of the capital cushion we have to absorb unexpected pressures.
Lastly, we have ample liquidity (readily available cash and credit) access that can supplement any immediate outflow or strain on typical cash flows. These sources of liquidity are periodically tested and “stressed” to ensure efficient and effective results when needed.
As stated in my previous communication, we are committed to providing uninterrupted access to your accounts and loans as we navigate this current environment.
Thank you for your continued support of Champion Credit Union and please feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions.
Thank you,
Jake Robinson
President/CEO
Posted March 20, 2020
Champion Credit Union continues to actively monitor the impact of COVID-19 and adjust operations accordingly. As stated in my previous communication, the health and well-being of our employees, members, and communities are our top priority.
Based on the social distancing recommendations from federal and state officials, the decision has been made to restrict access to branch lobbies effective March 23rd, 2020 and until further notice.
Let me be clear, Champion Credit Union is not closing offices, rather limiting the amount of traffic that circulates in public areas. Full drive-thru access will continue with normal business hours.
All requests normally handled in-branch will also continue, but by appointment only. Instructions on how to schedule an appointment can be found in the Q&A section at the conclusion of this message.
To respect those around you, we ask that if you demonstrate symptoms consistent with COVID-19 that you please utilize our electronic services or drive-thru and refrain from scheduling an in-branch appointment until symptoms have ceased for forty-eight (48) hours.
Accommodations for members who have been financially impacted by COVID-19 related events are being finalized. As soon as these options are available, we will provide further communication.
Champion Credit Union has and will always be committed to ensuring each member has uninterrupted access to their accounts as well as timely sources of credit. These changes will support the long-term sustainability of that commitment.
I appreciate your patience and support as we navigate through this unique time together.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions.
Thank you,
Jake Robinson
President/CEO
Q: Is access to my money being denied?
A: No. Access points are being reduced in conjunction with federal and state recommendations. Branch appointments, drive-thru, and digital access remains readily available. This includes debit and credit card transactions as well as all other means of payment.
A: No. Access points are being reduced in conjunction with federal and state recommendations. Branch appointments, drive-thru, and digital access remains readily available. This includes debit and credit card transactions as well as all other means of payment.
Q: Is my money safe with Champion Credit Union?
A: Champion Credit Union is fortunate to uphold a very healthy financial position. We maintain ample sources of liquidity and are considered “well-capitalized” by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). This enables CCU to sustain successful operations regardless of market conditions.
Q: What requests do you consider “normally handled in-branch”?
A: This would include account maintenance items related to deposit and investment accounts, safe deposit box access, wire transfers, personal and auto loan applications, and mortgage and business loan applications.
Q: How do I schedule an in-branch appointment?
A: During normal business hours, please call (828) 648-1515. After hours support can be found here.
Posted March 18, 2020
Champion Credit Union’s role as an integrated member of the Western North Carolina community is top priority, regardless of current events. We understand that a strong, successful community directly correlates with our own successes.
With that in mind, the health and well-being of our employees, members, and communities during the uncertainty of COVID-19 is being actively discussed and reviewed within our offices. A comprehensive pandemic plan has been maintained and adjusted to assess COVID-19 specific concerns. This enables us to ensure that your access will remain uninterrupted and your credit union preserves its fiscal strength.
To respect those around you, we ask that if you demonstrate symptoms consistent with COVID-19 that you please utilize our electronic services or drive-thru access as much as possible. We are proud of the investments we have made, and will continue to make, regarding digital access and hope that it will be utilized during this unique time.
Additionally, we understand that there may be instances of financial impact due to job loss, reduced work hours, unexpected medical expenses, or a variety of other reasons related to COVID-19. Please understand that we are here to help in every way possible. Do not hesitate to contact us should you find yourself facing financial difficulties.
Lastly, in efforts to centralize communication and provide feedback as efficiently as possible, we ask that all COVID-19 related questions be sent to covid19@championcu.com.
We will provide additional communication as necessary and appreciate your understanding and support of Champion Credit Union.
Thank you,
Jake Robinson
President/CEO
Posted March 13, 2020