Best Credit Union: Redwood Credit Union

Redwood Credit Union has made both nonprofit support and financial literacy priorities in the community.

Since 1950, Redwood Credit Union has served the North Bay as a premier financial institution. The not-for-profit financial collective provides a range of high-quality services to members through its 21 North Bay branches and extensive community support. This year, Redwood Credit Union has been voted the best credit union in the North Bay, totaling 40 first- and second-place wins for the company in various categories of our readers poll over the years.

Chief Administrative & Risk Officer Mishel Kaufman feels that Redwood Credit Union’s prioritization of trust between clients and the institution sets them apart form competitors. “Our members tell us time and time again that they love us,” she says. “It’s unusual to hear people use the word ‘love’ when talking about their financial institution. This makes us realize what a difference a credit union can make. People feel they’re being heard and cared for.”

This care extends beyond the members they serve in their branches. Redwood Credit Union is involved in community advocacy through nonprofit support, donations via grants and fundraising and thousands of volunteer hours at local philanthropic events. They are a founding partner in the Giving Marin program, a group designed to provide visibility to Marin County nonprofits, and a partner in the Celebrate Community program, which encourages volunteering.

Redwood Credit Union also offers support through financial literacy training. It promotes financial wellness and strives to improve financial inclusion by offering no-cost financial education to members through an online learning center, in-person and virtual presentations, financial counseling and frequently sharing tips through newsletters, blogs and social media.

Through its Bite of Reality event—an interactive simulation that helps teens learn vital money-management skills—Redwood Credit Union hopes to “open their eyes to the financial challenges that adults face every day,” says Kaufman.

She explains that the company listens to the challenges and needs of members, and greatly values their feedback. “We regularly survey our members and listen to understand what’s working well, and where we have opportunities. We take this feedback seriously so we can continuously improve on the member experience and meet their needs.”

Another unique characteristic of Redwood Credit Union is its licensed auto dealership. They are one of two credit unions in the country with this service, which offers members a convenient way to purchase, sell, finance and insure in one convenient and reliable setting.

With its range of products and services, Redwood Credit Union has been providing North Bay residents the materials to achieve financial wellness and reach their goals. Through local engagement, financial support and educational programs, the credit union goes above and beyond to serve its community.

Redwoodcu.org