About Cascade Federal Credit Union
Established in 1952, Cascade Federal Credit Union was founded to serve employees of the Cascade Division of the Great Northern Railway. Since then, we’ve grown into a valued financial partner for over 100 employer groups and associations across Washington state. Our journey is driven by a commitment of climbing together with our members, working side by side to help them reach their financial goals.
At Cascade FCU, we take pride in our ability to offer personalized financial solutions tailored to each member's unique goals. Whether it's saving for a dream home, financing a new vehicle or planning for retirement, we're here to provide the tools and support needed for financial success.
As a member-owned, not-for-profit institution, our focus is on serving our members' best interests. We deliver competitive rates, minimal fees and exceptional service to exceed expectations. Our knowledgeable team is dedicated to guiding members through every step of their financial journey with confidence and support. Join us to discover the difference of banking with a trusted partner who puts you first.MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY
There is a common misconception that it can be hard to join a credit union. You just need to meet one of these eligibility options:
- Work for one of our select employers
- Be referred by a current Cascade FCU member
- Join the Great Northern & Cascade Railway Association (GNCR). We will assist you in joining, simply complete your application online or visit a branch to get started.
how are credit unions different than other financial institutions?
Credit unions are co-operative, not-for-profit financial institutions organized to promote saving, provide economical loans and increase members' financial well-being. Credit unions are member-owned, and the members control the credit union through an elected Board of Directors.
Cascade Federal Credit Union (Cascade FCU) is federally chartered, which is why "federal" is part of our name. For your security, we are regulated and examined by the federal government, and your deposits are insured up to $250,000 by the NCUA.
Credit unions, unlike banks, are governed by a Board of Directors composed entirely of members themselves. In contrast, banks are governed by a group of shareholders focused on maximizing profits. This unique structure often translates into credit unions offering products and services with more favorable rates and lower fees for their members.
SHAPE the future of cascade fcu - volunteer opportunities
There are several ways to get involved:
- Board of Directors
- Supervisory Committee
- Associate Board Member
Responsibility of the Board of Directors:
- Approve strategic plans and annual budget.
- Approve policies necessary for the operation of the credit union.
- Amend the credit union bylaws, subject to the supervising authority, when necessary.
- Appoint committees as needed.
- Hire, set compensation and evaluate the performance of the CEO.
- Hold an annual meeting of the membership.
Responsibility of the Supervisory Committee:
- Ensuring that both the board of directors and management meet required financial reporting objectives and establish practices and procedures sufficient to safeguard members’ assets.
- Ensure the annual audit requirement is fulfilled.
- Ensure that the verification of member accounts is performed when required.
- Monitor internal controls.
- Monitor financial trends and reporting.
- Mitigate the risk to earnings or net worth arising from error, conflict of interest, self-dealing, and fraud by periodically reviewing and testing the effectiveness of a credit union’s internal controls.
Responsibilities of the Associate Board Member Position:
Board Associates are appointed by the Board of Directors. While the role of the Board Associate is not a voting member, the position requires engagement in all board activities. The expectations of the position are as follows:
- Attend all scheduled meetings of the Board of Directors and/or Supervisory Committee, the annual strategic planning retreat and the annual membership meeting.
- Maintain all business affairs and everything discussed in the board meetings in a confidential manner and refrain from any relationship which would create a conflict of interest with the credit union.
- Act as a positive ambassador for the credit union and the industry.
Qualifications to volunteer with Cascade FCU:
- Must be a member of Cascade FCU in good standing (no delinquent loans, no unexplained charge-offs in the past two years, no instances of committing fraud at any institution).
- Must be 21 years or older.
- Must not have been employed by the credit union or any subsidiary within the last two years, nor be an employee, volunteer or director at another financial institution.
- Cannot be an immediate family member of an employee, volunteer or director of Cascade FCU.
- Must have experience in business and/or as a community leader, as well as posses aptitude for financial information.
- Must be of the highest moral character and represent the best interest of the membership at all times.
- Must be able to keep an open mind, employ sound judgement, accept responsibility and function effectively within a group.
- Some post-high school education, such as a trade school, community college or university is desired.
APPLY for a volunteer opportunity
By submitting my information below, I authorize Cascade Federal Credit Union to solicit information regarding my credit and background. I understand that satisfactory credit history is a qualification of any volunteer position. I hereby release all parties connected with such request from all claims, liabilities and damages for any reason arising from accessing this information.
Free Checking
Free Checking is still a reality at Cascade FCU
We keep the name simple so you know
exactly what to expect.