Member Memories

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T. Tanner

I tell any and everyone that I love GFCU because they have been my financial hero. I joined GFCU in 1993 when a representative came to my job. I opened a primary share account with the minimum of $25 and never thought about it again. A year later my car died right after I'd spend just about my last dime on repairs. Then I received a flyer in the mail inviting members to the GFCU Car Sale. I called to find out more details and went to the branch to fill out an application for a loan.

The Saturday of the sale, not only did I find a car I liked, but a payment I could afford. I didn't have much of a down payment and nearly cried when I was told I qualified for 100% financing. I quickly closed my other account and moved everything to GFCU because I was so impressed.

When I needed extra cash to do some remodeling I got a home equity line of credit. When I decided to buy another car, the first place I thought of was GFCU. I called the car locator service and they found me a car the very next day! When my son was a toddler I opened a share account for him. GFCU has and always will be the place where I keep my accounts.

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O. Nesbitt, Sr.

I've been a proud member of GFCU since 2000 and I've got nothing but good things to say about the nice, personable, professional staff at my branch here in Conyers. I like that the staff knows me by name and they are always willing to do whatever they can to help meet my needs.

I like customer service and I like doing business with people who are friendly, polite, and professional. It makes a real difference. I have visited other branch locations and found this same atmosphere throughout the GFCU network across Metro-Atlanta.

Keep up the good work GFCU!

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M. and B. Smith

We work for the DeKalb County School System and have for many years. We would not be where we are today without the Credit Union. We struggled in the past when my husband's business had to close due to Marta coming through Decatur. He then came to work with the school system and with the help of the Credit Union we were able to build our credit back because GFCU was willing to give us a second chance. I'll never forget the first loan that GFCU gave us to get back on our feet. Because we were school system employees, you trusted that we would work and payback everything we borrowed. Now 30 years later, we still depend on you.

We thank you for trusting in the employees of the DeKalb County School System and for being willing to work for us in difficult situations. You have made a lot of dreams come true for the Smith family.

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A. Daniel

I am a member of the GFCU Teen Club. Even as a child, I remember visiting the credit union with my mother as she conducted various financial transactions. She opened a primary share account for my education when I was a toddler, and I still remember receiving post cards to enter coloring contests at GFCU. I enjoyed participating in the contests, receiving lollipops as a child from the friendly tellers and attending special GFCU events. Last year, when I became a teenager, my mother and our loan officer encouraged me to open a secondary share account with fund from my allowance, special occasion gifts of money from family and friends and my income from odd jobs. The Financial Service Officer of GFCU really took time reviewing the options of this account with me; he even provided me with information about managing and monitoring my account online. I really appreciated the fact that he spoke to me respectfully about the importance of managing my finances.

His comments to me supported statements made by my mother regarding the importance of saving using wise money management strategies.

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M. Hassler

I started with DeKalb County Teachers Credit Union in 1964 with DeKalb College. Horace Walden was a member of my church, and worked for the CU, and talked me into banking with GFCU. I joined the CU in 1966 when it was in the Decatur Federal Savings and Loan building. Vernon Carnes was the first director and I retired in 1983. I still use GFCU as my only banking institution. I have financed all my cars with GFCU and have been a happy and loyal member since 1966.

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D. Kennedy

I have been a victim of Identity Theft twice. My ATM card the first time and my husband's ATM card the second time. The first time, someone stole my card number and bought items off the internet. He was caught but never went to court.

It was around Christmas time and I had checks bouncing all over the place. The folks at the Dalton Branch were caring and supportive during this very emotional time for me. They helped me sort though it all and were very helpful when it happened the second time. Because of going through it once, I had been checking my account daily when I found that it had happened again. I caught it in time before any checks bounced. Again, the folks at the Dalton Branch were very caring, understanding, and patient.

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L. and V. Smith

About 4 years ago, I fractured my C4 & 5 vertebras in my neck, while on duty as a Middle Grades Teacher/Administrator. This life altering experience robbed me and my family physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually and placed a strain on our finances.

After surgery, a hospital stay, fighting infections, and numerous doctors' visits, we sold our home of 12 years, moved into a rental house, filed bankruptcy, and endured 3 years of intense physical therapy. I regained my ability to walk with a cane and use my voice at normal hearing range. We closed out accounts from other banks that were not supporting our mission to rebuild our financial house and chose to stick with GFCU. When I called a customer service representative, Mrs. Audrey Williams said she was committed to assisting us and explained what GFCU could do to help us with our financial needs.

Around that same time, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and because of Mrs. Williams and the help of everyone else at GFCU, this experience did not have to be financially stressful on my family at all! Due to Mrs. Williams' and other efficient representatives' sound knowledge of the financial products that GFCU has to offer their members, this past year has given us financial rewards we did not think possible three years ago. We invested in certificate in deposits, set up the additional savings' avenues with our own goal names, and individual checking accounts. Please do not let me forget the ease and relaxation of online banking.

This past year, we were able to purchase a much needed new vehicle and a new home after paying off all of our remaining debts! Yes, all this due to the wonderful treatment, and financial information given to us through the wonderful people, like Mrs. Williams and others from GFCU.

Never have we received such customer service assistance at any of the other banking establishments we routinely utilized before coming to Georgia Federal Credit Union. Because of the personal touch of customer service and all the wonderful people we have come in contact with at GFCU, their service makes us feel like we are millionaires! Thank you Georgia Federal Credit Union for assisting us in making our dreams, goals, and plans a reality no matter what comes our way in life!

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J. Lee

When our youngest daughter was born in 1969, the faculty at Sexton Woods Elementary School in Chamblee presented my husband, John Lee, a gift of cash in her honor with the suggestion that a share account be opened for her at the DeKalb County Teachers Credit Union. Since we were already Credit Union members, we were thrilled with the idea, and our newest addition shared a joint account with her father.

We watched our daughter and her two sisters grow up during the next two decades, and were secure in the knowledge that the Credit Union was available in the event of unforeseen emergencies, and also for special occasions, new cars, home improvements, furniture, trips, or vacations.

The years passed, and our daughters began to leave home. Then one day our youngest drove away to college in a car financed by the Credit Union. A few years later, her father walked her down the aisle at her "dream wedding", thanks in part to the Credit Union.

Today, she shares that same account number with her husband and their two daughters, making memories of their own, secure in the knowledge that the Credit Union is available for their family. We think that's a nice legacy.

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A. Milford

My story begins in 2002. My mother and sister and I had ended a 5 year long lawsuit for medical malpractice due to my fathers death at the age of 46 years old. When I found out how much money we were going to each receive, I was very nervous about how I was going to handle the money. I also not only had this task but also I had two half sisters that were not legally part of the lawsuit because my father and mother were never able to complete the adoption process to change there names. So therefore of course my mother and my other sister had already decided we were going to also divide the lawsuit winnings between my other 2 sisters. This was very overwhelming, But when I called the credit union, as usual, they were very friendly and ready to help me. The whole process from depositing the large amount of money to withdrawing part of it to give my sisters their other part of money ended up being hassle free. I must say that the money was a huge help but the situation was also very difficult emotionally! As we received the checks that day from our lawyer's office, my heart wept as I realized that 5 years worth of trying to get justice for my father and for what had happened had come to an end but the money still did not bring my father back! All of these emotions were as well very overwhelming, but thanks to the kindness of my local branch and understanding the actual financial transactions were very painless and very much appreciated! I don't think that my branches of associates have really ever realized how much they helped me and my family but it was much appreciated. Since that time we have had many different situations come about financially and the branch has always helped us with open arms. Thank you for everything and we love our credit union!

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B. Brown

I relocated to Georgia three years ago and needed to put my savings in a safe financial institution. I had a bad experience with a credit union in Washington, DC years ago and vowed never to use one again. My sister who has lived in Georgia for thirty years suggested Georgia Federal Credit Union. She could only give high praises to you and shared her story of being in a financial strait years ago and GFCU being there for her. I decided to give you a try. I can truly say I have not regretted it. You are very responsive to my financial needs and I feel more than comfortable referring other family and friends to you. Happy Anniversary! It's my pleasure doing business with you.

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R. Zeigler

I have been a member of Georgia Federal Credit Union for about 18 years.  I am very pleased with the many services provided to me and my family. When I think of GFCU, what matters most to me is the personal attention I have received from your associates. One story I would like to share occurred when I first began banking with GFCU.  My mother who lived out of town was in very serious financial strain. Because of an illness she was unable to work and was about to have her utilities turned off and was facing possible eviction. I knew I had to help my mother by going to New York however; I needed additional funds to do so. Needless to say I was distraught. I went to the South DeKalb Branch of GCFU and met the branch manager. I tearfully told him my story and with the stroke of his pen I was granted a loan for one thousand dollars. I was able to assist my mother out of a desperate situation. I will never forget his caring and understanding. His compassion demonstrated the care GFCU continuously provides to its customers. I always believe that GFCU associates are willing to do all they can to help when there is a need. I am proud to be a member of GFCU because it is a financial institution that cares about people.

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M. Tracy

I would like to thank Georgia Federal Credit Union for helping me establish my credit history with my first automobile loan.

Last August, I was still 18, but found a 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse I have always wanted. The dealership offered financing, but my mom suggested I visit Georgia Federal Credit Union and discuss what their rates and loan guidelines would be.

Even though my Mom came with me, Assistant Branch Manager Ms. Harston spoke directly to me and answered my questions with thorough simple explanations I could easily understand.

She explained to me the importance of making my payments on time and the future I was building by establishing my credit history with this loan.

I make my payments each month with tips I earn at Applebee's as a waiter and feel great each time I meet that goal.

Congratulations Georgia Federal Credit Union. I am glad to have you as "my Financial Partner for Life".

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K. Davis

Since joining GFCU as a teenager in the mid 1990's I have moved out of state. When asked why I refuse to change my banking accounts to a more local bank I simply explain that GFCU has been a partner in my success. I can not imagine having another bank as invested in my individual success as GFCU has been. In 1998 GFCU gave me a car loan that helped to build my credit history. Two years later I moved out of state to attend college. While working full time, and attending classes full time, I unfortunately ran into financial difficulties more than once. GFCU and their representatives at the Conyers Branch always treated me with dignity and respect during those trying times. GFCU graciously extended my loan.

The thoughtfulness and trust GFCU showed me gave me the financial flexibility to gain my college degree while making my day to day life a bit more manageable. Though I am proud to say my loan has since been paid off, I can not forget the kindness and respect that I was shown. Since that time I have continued to work on my education. I am excited to say that graduate school is now on my horizon. I sincerely believe GFCU helped me get there. No matter where I live, GFCU will always be my banking institution of preference. There is no other institution I would rather turn towards with the financial decisions that matter most to me.

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P. Santos

I can always count on GFCU. I have been a member for several years and this credit union has been a Godsend. I purchased a home in Florida in 2006, and I was moving from my apartment in Lithonia. I had given proper notice, but the management told me I still had to pay a months rent to terminate my lease. I was very concerned because the first months mortgage was also due on my new home and I simply did not have enough money to pay both. I tried several other sources to obtain the money needed, but it was GFCU who in the end gave me a loan to cover the rent payment. This financial institution is simply the best and they really work to assist their members. I wish GFCU a very happy and blest birthday and I hope they enjoy another fifty years. Thanks for everything.

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S. Garner

I asked to borrow money to buy a van that I really wanted and GFCU gave me a loan. I was very grateful. I also asked for a loan to buy Christmas presents for my three teenage grandchildren. Their mother has been going through a difficult time with her health. She suffered from a stroke and cannot use her left hand. Thanks to GFCU, my grandchildren's Christmas wishes came true. I am so thankful for all your help Georgia Federal Credit Union. Thanks so much!

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C. Bryant

My mother opened me an account with the Credit Union when I was born. Mr. Carne, her Principal, told her about the services of the Credit Union. The Credit Union has been of great service to our family. Happy Birthday GFCU!

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Y. Thedford

When I had my purse stolen in 2005, I went in to my local branch, in Stockbridge, to close my account and open a new one. GFCU was very helpful in trying to make sure that everything was taken care of for me. Even talking with the police and trying to figure out about my identity being stolen, I can say that GFCU really cared about their customers and what happens to them. I really appreciate Georgia Federal for what they are doing to make sure that the identity of their members is protected. I felt like I was not alone in my fight for justice. Thanks GFCU.

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D. Davis

My debit card number was stolen even though my card never left my wallet. I was contacted by VISA and in turn contacted GA Federal to let them know about the number theft. I went into the branch, signed papers and my money was back into my account within a couple of hours and a new card was sent to me within a few days. I never felt any panic because everyone from VISA to the folks at GFCU assured me there was no need to; they would take care of it. And the best part was, they did! In a time when customer service has all but vanished they renewed my faith by showing care and concern for their customers! Thanks so much!

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R. Clark

I have been a member of the credit union since its beginning in Rockdale County. I joined the credit union when it was only Newton/ Rockdale credit union and was located on Institute Street in old town. I served on the board of directors and was `instrumental in the transition from Newton Rockdale Credit Union to Georgia Federal Credit Union. I have been very pleased with the Credit Union.

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R. Allen

In the spring of 1963 I graduated from the University of Georgia and began my teaching career at Avondale High School as an Industrial Arts Teacher and football coach. In the summer of 1964 I was in need of a car and had decided on a Volks Wagon. The problem was I needed money to fulfill this need. After consulting with the Head Football coach at Avondale, I ventured to the Decatur Federal Building in Decatur, GA where I made my first visit to the Dekalb County Teachers Federal Credit Union.

Upon entering the office I was greeted by an elderly gentleman sitting behind a desk. After passing some pleasantries we discussed my needs and to my surprise I was approved. After a brief call to the car dealer I received my required money in cash.

This began what turned out to be a lifetime bond of 44 years of uninterrupted service and loyalty. The next year the credit union moved to their new offices on Indian Creek Dr. and I accepted a teaching position in Columbus, GA. Although I moved, my relationship with them remained solid. When I returned to the Dekalb County School System in 1973 I felt right at home when I needed financial services.

I have since retired to Lake Sinclair in Eatonton, GA and remain a loyal member. I am looking forward to them opening a branch in the Milledgeville - Eatonton area as we have many Dekalb retirees in the area.

Thanks for 44 years of great and friendly service!

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K. Tew

Back in January 2003 my son had passed away from a battle with cancer he had found out he had in 1999. He worked until he couldn't work but always had a great outlook. It was hard losing him as he was only 30. He had no life insurance and the cost of the funeral was just over whelming. We had to have the majority of the money up front for the funeral home and the grave site, so I called the Stockbridge branch to see about what they could do to get the money I needed that day and they worked very hard in getting it for us. It really eased my mind when my husband and I were taken care of and we cannot thank the credit union and all the other associates enough. They are a great team and I appreciate all that they do. They are always there for me.

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P. Robbins

In 1982 the Henry County Teachers Federal Credit Union, who soon afterward merged with Georgia Federal Credit Union, in Henry County was located in the library of Henry County Sr High School...only certain days and hours (I believe 2pm to 4pm). No ATM, no drive thru window, etc. My wife and I wanted to buy a boat and needed a loan to do so. The Credit Union had never made a boat loan, however the boat loan was approved as a "special approval" since this was the first one the Credit Union had ever made. The branch is now located off of North Park Trail with an ATM and drive thru window.

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L. Cannon

I joined the DeKalb Teacher's Federal Credit Union when I went back into teaching in 1978 after several years as a full time mom. I was teaching at Jolly Elementary School, which was very near the Memorial Drive location. My husband and I have had our account since that time, and I still use the old member card showing the Clarkston address and telephone number. For the past few years, we have been using the online banking service, receiving E-Statements and paying bills electronically. We appreciate this wonderful service, since we have retired and we travel as often as possible. We receive most of our bills electronically, so we can make payments and see deposits using our laptop computer, even though we are away from home. We have always had great service with GFCU!

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D. Milie

My husband and I are a very young couple. After being married in December of 2005, we soon became unexpectedly pregnant. At the time we had one car that was at best, unreliable. We started looking for a car. We went to a few dealerships and they all said we did not have enough credit to qualify for a loan. We became discouraged and decided to stop looking for a short time. About a month later I was in making a deposit and saw a flyer about qualifying for a car loan. My husband and I went in to see if we qualified. We did! Not only were the people willing to help us get a loan, they also helped negotiate the price of our car with the dealership!! While it may not seem like a lot to most people, they really made a difference in our lives.

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