Vote Yes For Our Future!

We’re sure you have questions about our recent merge announcement with Founders FCU. Our dedication to our members is stronger than ever, which is why we feel this is in the best interest of both our members and our staff. We have compiled some general Frequently Asked Questions, information on available products and services, as well as statements from Vital’s CEO, Board Chairman, and Founders representatives. Our staff is also always available to answer your questions and ease your concerns!

However, in today’s fast-paced economy, smaller credit unions like ours face significant challenges in providing the comprehensive products, services and technology our members deserve. To ensure our members and employees continue to have a thriving credit union, we sought out a merger partner who shares our values and commitment to excellence.

After careful consideration, we selected Founders Federal Credit Union. With more than 70 years in business, Founders is one of the nation’s largest and most innovative credit unions. They share our dedication to delivering exceptional, personalized service, and secure high-quality financial products to their members and their families.

To move forward, we need your voice. A special membership vote is required to approve this merger. Soon, you will receive details about the meeting and a ballot with instructions on how and when to cast your vote.

We are excited about this opportunity to partner with Founders and hope you share our enthusiasm. Together, we look forward to discovering new and efficient ways to better serve you.

From Our Board Chairman

VITAL Federal Credit Union holds a special place in my heart, as it does for your entire Board of Directors. That’s why today, I want to personally encourage every member to vote in favor of this merger. This decision is about more than growth, it’s about securing the future of our credit union.

Each month, your Board of Directors comes together to review the well-being of VITAL and assess where our current path is leading us. During these discussions, we faced a critical decision: either reduce our products and services to remain independent, or maintain the exceptional service you’ve come to expect by merging with another credit union.

Putting our members first has always been, and will always be, our top priority. With that in mind, we approached this decision with great care. Our Board evaluated several potential partners, ensuring we chose the option that best serves our members. After extensive consideration, Founders Federal Credit Union emerged as the clear choice.

We believe this merger represents an exciting opportunity to enhance the level of service and value we provide to you, our members.

FAQs

How will this merger affect me directly?

If the merger is approved, your accounts and membership will be transferred to Founders Federal Credit Union. Once merged, you will have the full benefits of Founders and access to their extended catalog of products and services.

Will VITAL change its name as a result of the merger?

Both credit unions recognize the importance of the goodwill establishment in our respective communities. Clearly, our name is a valuable asset. However, once the merger is approved by our members, we will become a part of Founders Federal Credit Union to more accurately reflect our new identity.

What if I already have a membership with Founders?

Your VITAL accounts will transfer and your accounts with Founders will remain intact.

Will I still be able to use the VITAL office?

Yes the VITAL office will remain open. Also, members will have access to even more locations. Founders Federal Credit Union operates 44 service locations in North and South Carolina including 6 in the Spartanburg area.

What will happen to my accounts after the merger?

Once the merger is finalized, your account balances will automatically transfer on the merger date with little or no inconvenience to you.

How will the merger affect the way I do my banking?

With additional office locations, the merger should make it easier and more convenient for many members. In addition to product and service enhancements, you will continue to enjoy the same service and philosophies you have come to expect from VITAL. You will have access to a wider array of financial tools and services.

Is my money safe?

Yes, all of your accounts are secure, and are federally insured by NCUA.

Since we will be bigger, will we operate like a bank?

No. Both VITAL and Founders are member-owned credit unions and will remain as such. While larger, Founders was established with the same ideals and principals as VITAL. You will have access to more products and services while retaining all the benefits of membership with a credit union.

What will happen to the current VITAL employees?

Employees of VITAL Federal Credit Union who are eligible will be offered positions with Founders.

What happens next?

Members will be mailed a merger packet in late March 2025 including a notice of a special membership meeting and the ballot for the merger. The mailing will contain detailed instructions on when, where,and how you can cast your vote.

This package will indicate it is being mailed from VITAL FCU, however the address will be Ohio and not Spartanburg. Additionally, if you choose to mail in your ballot, the return envelope is addressed to CU Ballot in Ohio. VITAL FCU has contracted with a 3rd party based in Ohio to keep the votes accurate and the process fair. This firm specializes in election services to manage the merger voting process.

What if I am unable to attend the meeting?

Remember, your vote counts. So, please follow the instructions in your merger packet to cast your vote. Attendance is encouraged but not required for you to cast your vote.

A Message From Founders FCU

At Founders, we are excited about all the possibilities this potential partnership entails and look forward to serving you and your family.

For more than 70 years, Founders Federal Credit Union has been dedicated to helping members achieve financial success and security.

Our history is very much similar to yours at VITAL. We were originally established by Colonel Elliott White Springs as a means for Springs’ employees to borrow money at an affordable rate and maintain a systematic savings program. In September of 1950 the Springs Employees Federal Credit Union in Fort Mill, South Carolina was established and began operation with approximately 900 charter members.

And, like you, we expanded our field of membership and later changed our name to Founders Federal Credit Union to reflect a more diversified field of membership.

Today, Founders operates 44 offices in North and South Carolina and has more than 800 employees, proudly serves over 270,000 members and has over $4.7 billion in assets.

While this does make us one of the largest credit unions in the nation, our philosophy remains simple - Founders puts every member first to help them achieve their financial goals and best provide for their families. Founders offers a wide range of affordable and quality services and forges a unique bond with its members to build lifetime partnerships based on trust.

Today’s financial services market is more competitive than ever. We’re on the forefront of that technology giving our members state-of-the-art products such as Founders Online, the Founders App and an expanding selection of financial tools and services, complimented by personalized service.

We look forward to welcoming the members and employees of VITAL Federal Credit Union to our family at Founders. You can

Relax ... knowing we are committed to providing you with the personalized service you currently receive, along with access to more products and services.

Additional Products and Services Offered By Founders FCU

• 44 Branch locations, including 7 Spartanburg County branches

• Over 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs

• ATMs with cash deposit feature

• Founders Pay

• IRAs

• Mortgages

• Insurance Services

• Wealth Management

• Plus many more!