Thursday, February 26, 2015

NEW Community Shelter

In 1994 The NEW Community Shelter opened it’s doors  in Green Bay, WI.  Since then they have had 2 successful capital campaigns that enabled them to move to their present location at 301 Mather St in Green Bay and then doubled the size of their kitchen/serving area!  They provide emergency shelter for adult men and women and a wide variety of programs to help them get back on their feet.  They have programs for everything from job hunting to clothing and haircuts to addiction counseling.  They are the only emergency shelter program in this area open year round.

The shelter also provides meals to any child or adult in need.  This service is available to anyone  – not just their residents.  They only ask for peaceful behavior and sobriety.  I’ve helped serve meals at the shelter and it is an amazing experience!  You meet not only residents of the shelter but also
families who just need a hot meal to stretch their budget.  They serve dinner everyday from 5 pm to 6pm, and they also serve lunches from 11:30am to 12:30pm on weekends and every holiday.  On average their evening meal serves over 200 people!


They are always looking for donations of money or ‘ things’, visit their website at www.newcommunityshelter.org or contact Mercedes at 437-3766 ext 111 for further information and their current wish list.

The NEW Community Shelter is a caring, supportive environment for those in need.

Post by: Mary D

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Time Management

Can’t seem to finish anything on time? You start something but get completed distracted and forget about it? Not reaching your goals because of the first two questions?
Maybe it’s time to change the way you do complete your tasks or goals. Certainly, no one likes change, but I promise it will be for the better! Follow the simple tips below and that dreaded feeling you get when deadlines hit will wash away!

-          Create a chart or list of your things to do.
o   Organization is key! We tend to try to remember everything that needs to get done only to find that we forgot to do something at the end of the day.
-          Prioritize your tasks.
o   What’s important? What needs to be done immediately to get to step two?
o   The feeling of satisfaction after completing a task is what we are looking for. Consider even small tasks first, anything that will take 5 to 10 minutes to do. This will get you pumped for the bigger, dreadful tasks!
-          Be S.M.A.R.T.
o   S - Specific: It’s no math project but when setting goals, but be specific; know exactly what you want to complete.
For example, instead of saying “I’ll get the paperwork done”, say “I’ll get page one and two done.”
o   M – Measurable: Set a goal that you can complete in a reasonable time. So going off the example above we can add, “I’ll get page one and two done by noon tomorrow.” This helps you meet deadlines and avoid stalling until the last minute!
o   A – Achievable: Make sure your goals are not so far-fetched that it seems almost impossible to complete. Focus on what you can get done, work on that and get it off your check list!
o   R – Relevant: Your goals should be relevant to the task at hand. When planning, bundle tasks that relate to one another. This helps you move through the process quickly also it helps eliminate time wasters!
o   T – Time-Bound: Give yourself deadlines! Using the example above again, “I’ll get the paperwork done”. Great! But when? Make deadlines and make sure you are completing the tasks at the time you set.


Go ahead and give the pointer above a try! If this worked for you, do come back and let us know! If there’s something you do that you believe can help someone else, comment below!

Post by: Kelly V

Friday, February 20, 2015

A little wine can go a long way...

Making homemade items from wine corks seems to be more and more popular now days…not only do people use corks to fill up their wine cork holders, but people are also collecting and even buying wine corks to use for projects. One of my favorite wine cork projects was actually given to me by sister.  We were opening Christmas gifts at my parents' house a couple of years ago and she gave me a yard stick covered in wine corks from top to bottom. I wasn’t really sure what it was at first, and my sister must have noted my confusion. She explained to me that it was a wine cork board. Sounds pretty cool right?

The following are the instructions and materials needed to make a wine cork board:
1. Drink lots of wine or become friends with someone who drinks lots of wine
2. Save the corks- the amount needed will depend on the size of the corks
3. Using a hot glue gun, attach the corks to the yard stick from top to bottom and let dry for several hours
4. Use thumbtacks to attach items to your cork board
5. Attach a hook to hang it up on your wall. I made mine using braided ribbon formed into a loop and hung it on a nail. You can be creative with this part.

Here’s what your finished project should look like:

Photo Courtesy of Pinterest

That’s it! That is all there is! I love using my wine cork board to display pictures, to hang notes, and at Christmas time I like to use it to display cards. This is such a great way to reuse all those corks and it makes a great gift for not only wine lovers but for all your creative friends!

Post by: Katie B.

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Five Ways to Get More Mileage Out of Your Tax Refund

  1. Clear away debt. Average standard credit card rates are now running from 13% to 15%, according to Bankrate.com, and many store cards are well above 20%. Paying down your highest rate balances first can help you save substantial interest over time. Apply for a HCCU VISA Credit Card with rates as low as 9.9% APR to cut down on interest while you're paying back the balance!
  2. Begin or add to an emergency account. Many financial experts recommend amassing at least three months' worth of expenses to offset a monetary setback or unplanned major purchase. By contributing to a liquid fund such as a money market account, you'll help avoid charging expenses and racking up debt (see above).
  3. Invest long-term. If you have your debts under control and emergency cash on hand, the next best move may be to invest long-term for potentially higher return. You may want to leverage your investment even more with a tax-advantaged option, such as an individual retirement account or your employer-sponsored retirement plan. A 401(k) plan that offers matching funds is essentially a source of free money. Check with your financial advisor to help determine the investment options that are best for you.
  4. Remodel to increase your home's value. Your refund may not cover the cost of a major remodeling project, but consider using it to hire a professional to help determine what upgrades could bring the greatest return if and when you decide to move. Check out the Cost vs. Value Report at www.remodeling.hw.net for average amounts recouped. Be aware that the amounts apply to homes sold within a year of the remodel.
  5. Refinance your mortgage to a lower rate.  If you're paying more than the market rate on your home loan, you may be able to save money each month by securing a lower rate.  If you're currently renting but looking to buy, start a down payment savings account with your tax refund.

Monday, February 16, 2015

Traveling, Money and Your CU

Traveling season seems to be in swing. “Snowbirds” (read: smart people) are heading south to warmer climates, and college students will be going the same direction during spring break. Many things cost money, especially while traveling, so having quick access to yours is important. To make your travels a bit less stressful, call or come in to talk to a Horizon Community Credit Union Member Service Representative. We can place a travel alert on all of your accounts so that your transactions will not be rejected when you travel. If you are residing somewhere  for an extended period of time, make sure you leave us with an alternate address and/or phone number, in case we need to contact you. If you have any loans, it would be a good idea to set up some automatic transfers to be sure that those loan payments are made on time.  We offer some additional products and services that can help you manage your money from wherever you may be.

A very common way to access money today is an ATM/debit card.  When making purchases with your debit card, confirm that merchants have the correct zip code for your address.  Also keep in mind that you have a daily ATM withdrawal limit.  Our standard ATM limit is $210/day.  If you will need more than $210 in one day, contact a Team Member to learn what other options we have for you.  Lastly, remember to tell HCCU that you will be traveling and verify that we have your current contact information!

As an additional protection for members, we utilize an automated debit card security system, which recognizes unusual transactions and possible fraud.  If this occurs, you will likely receive a phone call. The system is considered “smart,” and tries to recognize patterns and typical usage. It is quite a shock when it knows that you live in Green Bay, Wisconsin, but your card is being used in Fort Worth, Texas. This security measure can protect you from identity theft.  I have seen it in action, and it really does protect well. As it is said, it is better to be safe than sorry!

If you are not already set up on our ItsMe247 services, it would be wise to enroll before traveling. Online banking offers the most flexibility and service, and allows you to keep an eye on your finances, make payments and transfers with ease.  The new Promise Deposit feature is done through online banking, and that may be useful on your travels as you can deposit checks for instant credit and then mail the paper document in. You can access the online banking through your phone’s Internet browser, as the site will automatically convert to mobile form.

Our automated phone banking system, CU*Talk allows you to call a specific number that will tell you, based on the security information you enter, your account balances. You can also make transfers, loan payments, and verify cleared checks. To clarify, CU*Talk is different than calling the credit union. It is available 24/7, while the MSR’s are only at Horizon Community Credit Union during business hours. Lastly, there is text banking. At this time, its main purpose is to give balances of accounts and send eAlerts as text messages. You can enroll/un-enroll in text banking through your online banking. All of these services allow you to perform transactions on your own time and offer the convenience of 24/7 service.

Don’t’ spend your vacation worrying about your money—stop by or call a Horizon Community Credit Union Member Service Representative today and let them help you set yourself up for a relaxing vacation.

Post by: Breanna B.


Friday, February 13, 2015

Love Coupon Book

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, do you feel like you get the same things for your special someone every year? Roses, chocolates, greeting cards… It’s time to get creative and switch it up this year! Even though the roses and the chocolates are great, nothing says “I love you” more than something that you make yourself! Putting time and effort into a gift makes it even more special. There are a few things you can make your special someone without spending a lot of money. One of my favorite is the love coupon book. This is a way to pamper your special someone and show that you still care deeply about their wishes. With a love coupon book you can make written promises for your loved one to be redeemed whenever they wish and with no restrictions. There are no rules; you decide what you want to promise. Here are a few examples to help you get started:


  •        Romantic Dinner for two
  •        A night of stargazing
  •        A free wish
  •        One BIG bear hug
  •        24 hours of no arguments- no matter what!
  •        A day of games and fun
  •        30 minutes of cuddling
  •        A movie date to the movie of your choice
  •        Favorite homemade meal made by me
  •        One full body massage
  •        Blank- you fill in
  •        One evening treated like royalty
  •        Breakfast in bed

There really are no limits to this! So be creative and have fun, this is a gift your other half is really going to appreciate!

Post by: Karla C

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Valentine's Day in Green Bay

I have a holiday in mind that is loved by many, and has others on the couch eating chocolate frosting. On this day more than 150 million greeting cards are sold, and more than 50 million red flowers; also more than 36 million heart shaped boxes are sold.  Getting a reservation for dinner on this night can be very difficult, as most restaurants are packed…

VALENTINE’S DAY!

Although Valentine’s Day to some has turned solely into a marketing campaign for retailers and food service providers, it can be made into a nice day! Let me tell you about a couple GREAT specials going on in our area!

Let’s start with the wonderful things you can buy before date night begins!  Schroeder’s Flowers has big, beautiful, and reasonable flower arrangements to choose from!  Edible Arrangements has every fruit you could imagine dipped in chocolate; these delicious treats don’t hurt your wallet either!

Now let’s look at some amazing restaurants in the area that are offering great deals! Ogan Restaurant, located in De Pere, has a special Valentine’s Day menu, as well as a list of specialty wines!  The Wellington is offering a five course menu with eight different entree options! Cheesecake Heaven is featuring a five course meal along with five different wines, for only $55! There are many other great food options out there to choose from!  Be sure to make your reservations ahead of time.

To finish off the night, why not relax by watching a movie at the local Marcus Cinema Theater! When purchasing tickets for a show, if you buy them on-site they are $10, but if you buy them ahead of time there’s a deal! Visit the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay campus to purchase tickets to any Marcus Cinema Show and pay only $8, and get a coupon for snacks!

If these Valentine’s Day gifts and activities aren't really what you’re looking for, stop in to the credit union and buy your valentine a heart to support Children’s Miracle Network!  They will be displayed all month long in our branches, and your donations help local children receive the life-saving care they need at our Children’s Hospital right here in Neenah!  What better way to beat the “overly marketed Hallmark holiday” feeling than to give a gift of hope to a young child?!

There are so many different things to do with a loved one or friends that don’t have to hurt your wallet, and it can be enjoyable!  Don’t forget to stop by HCCU today to pick up some extra cash for the day!

Post by: Emily P

Friday, February 6, 2015

Shop local this Valentine's Day!


Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. Can’t think of anything to get that special person in your life? The one that holds the key to your HEART? Well, check out the businesses on Broadway. Purchase a gift in any of the Broadway retail stores from February 6th - 8th, and receive a coupon for 2 free glasses of wine or a free appetizer at participating Broadway restaurants! Coupons are good with a purchase of a meal on February 13th and 14th.

Participating restaurants are as follows:
The Urban Frog, Whitedog Blackcat Cafe, Glass Nickel Pizza Co., Café Madrid, Three Thirty Five, The Sardine Can, and Jekyll & Hyde!

And once your big weekend is over and it is back to work, stop in at Horizon Community Credit Union, and donate to the CMN. A $25.00 donation will give us a HEART.  Full proceeds go to benefit the Children’s Hospital in Wisconsin.

Also, Broadway is excited about the unveiling of the new artistic touches their benches and garbage containers will be getting in the Broadway District!

They are currently looking for local artists and organizations who would like to participate in painting a bench or garbage covers. If you know of anyone interested in this, have them contact the On Broadway Inc. office with all inquiries or questions (920) 437.2531. Or email info@onbroadway.org.

Post by: Karen S

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Take an active role in your credit union!



We've posted a lot about the credit union difference and why credit unions are a unique financial model.  Now, come witness that difference in action!  Our annual membership luncheon and meeting is being held today, Wednesday February 4th!  Come meet your fellow credit union members and our fabulous staff during lunch from 10:30-2:30.  Then, swing back at 5:15pm to our Voyager Dr. branch to take part in our annual meeting.  You'll learn about some of our initiatives in the coming year, our financial position, and eligible members can vote for candidates to serve on our board of directors!  (Eligible members must be at least 18 years of age, must be a member of HCCU for at least 90 days, and accounts at HCCU must be in good standing.)

Credit unions are unique and different, and they remain a necessary and extremely popular financial alternative for 100 million Americans.
Not-for-profit.  Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives.  We exist to serve our members, not to make a profit.  Unlike most other financial institutions, credit unions do not issue stock or pay dividends to outside stockholders.  Instead, earnings are returned to our members in the form of lower loan rates, higher interest on deposits, and lower fees.
Taxation.  Credit unions do pay taxes - payroll taxes, sales taxes, and property taxes.  Congress exempts credit unions from federal income taxes.  The exemption was established in 1937, affirmed by the statute in 1951, and re-affirmed in 1998 in H.R. 1151, the Credit Union Membership Access Act, which states:  "Credit unions, unlike many other participants in the financial services market, are exempt from Federal and most State taxes because credit unions are member-owned, democratically operated, not-for-profit organizations generally managed by volunteer boards of directors and because they have the specific mission of meeting the credit and savings needs of consumers, especially persons of modest means."
Ownership.  Credit unions are economic democracy.  Each credit union member has equal ownership and one vote - regardless of how much money a member has on deposit.  At a credit union, every customer is both a member and an owner.
Volunteer Boards.  Each credit union is governed by a board of directors, elected by and from the credit union's membership.  Board members serve voluntarily.
Membership Eligibility.  By current federal statute, credit unions cannot serve the general public.  People qualify for a credit union membership through their employer, organizational affiliations like churches or social groups, or a community-chartered credit union.
Financial Education for Members.  Credit unions assist members to become better educated consumers of financial services.  Additionally, CUNA is partnering with the National Endowment for Financial Education, a not-for-profit foundation, to expand financial education amount high school students.  A national study shows that just ten hours of personal finance education can positively affect students' spending and savings habits for a lifetime.
Social Purpose: People Helping People.  Credit unions exist to help people, not make a profit.  Our goal is to serve all of our members well, including those of modest means - every member counts.  Our members are fiercely loyal for this reason.  They know their credit union will be there for them in bad times, as well as good.  The same people-first philosophy causes credit unions and our employees to get involved in community charitable activities and worthwhile causes - just ask us!

Monday, February 2, 2015

The CU wants to know who is in your household...and here is why it matters!



You may have been asked by one of the Horizon Community Credit Union Member Service Representatives if there is anyone else in your “household.” If you haven’t yet, you will begin to hear more about it soon. To us, a household is defined as any group of people who reside within the same house, whether or not they are related.  HCCU uses households to link any group of members that we consider a “unit”. This includes members and non-members on an account, even if they do not live in the same house (such as a child away at college). But why does this matter?

In case you haven’t heard about the SunDrops member rewards program, let me give you the bare bones. It rolled out on 1/1/2015. All HCCU members qualify for this rewards program and are already enrolled. You receive tiered benefits that are calculated based on products and services you use. There are four rewards tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Your points are calculated on a monthly basis, so it is possible for you to change tiers from month to month, which can in turn change your benefits.

There are two primary benefits to householding. The first benefit is, well, benefits! We will apply the highest point earner's points to the entire household. All other members of the household, regardless of their rewards level, will receive the level of benefits that highest earner has.

The second benefit is reduced mailings. Instead of mailing multiple copies of the same thing to the same address, we will mail only one. This might not seem like a big deal, but it has an impact. It will be less clutter in your mailbox or on your kitchen table. There will be less paper in the trash. Best of all, there will be less environmental impact, leaving the world a bit greener.

If you are still confused about the importance of householding, let me give you an example. Here are members of a fictitious household and their reward level:

Mother-Platinum
Father-Gold
Daughter (away at college)- Bronze
Son-Bronze

As you see, the mother has the highest rewards tier. But, anyone else who is linked as part of her "household" (Father, Daughter, Son) will receive Platinum-level benefits as well.  As a bonus, their household will get one group HCCU mailing instead of the four individual mailings they were receiving before.

If you still have questions, please call or come in to either Horizon Community Credit Union location and any MSR will gladly help you determine your rewards level and set up your household.

Post by: Breanna B.