From $1,000 to $100 Million---One Member at a Time!

RALEIGH, N.C., July 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Credit Union Investment Services (CUIS), a service organization of North Carolina State Employees' Credit Union (SECU), is pleased to announce that assets in investment services has exceeded $100 million.  Even more impressive than the $100 million figure is the atypical process in which CUIS achieved the milestone --- with most members investing initially, on average, a minimal $1,000!  This milestone, achieved in just over a few years, is proof that SECU's CUIS "wealth building for the not-yet-wealthy" approach is gaining traction with its members.

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With 230 non-commissioned, multi-licensed representatives statewide, CUIS focuses on the average Credit Union member - one who is below the radar for the majority of investment products and would not typically qualify for the services elsewhere.  Since all representatives are salaried and receive no commission, members are assured to receive fair, impartial advice.  CUIS representatives guide investors based on the member's objective, time horizon, risk tolerance and overall financial condition, ultimately providing education for the member to make an informed investing decision.  And while $1,000 was already considered an extremely low amount for investing, Credit Union Investment Services recently opened the door for even more members by lowering the initial investment amount to only $250!

Credit Union Investment Services is a unique piece of the puzzle that ties in to SECU's overall organizational objective of helping members create a successful financial path.  Other pieces of the puzzle include an online member Financial Assessment Tool, a basic, low-cost Estate Planning Essentials program, Tax Preparation services, and partnerships with member groups, with SECU representatives providing financial education on topics from budgeting to retirement planning.

Joan McCool, Senior Vice President of SECU's IRA and Investment Services department states, "We are thrilled that CUIS is an investment vehicle for many members who may not have had the opportunity to begin this process in the traditional market.  To provide investment options for all members, you must adapt to what works for their needs and their budgets.  With a low $250 investment minimum and non-commissioned representatives, CUIS offers a consumer-friendly investing option for SECU members.  It is very rewarding to offer products and services that make a positive financial difference in the lives of those we serve."

About SECU

SECU is a not-for-profit financial cooperative owned by its members. SECU has been providing the employees of the State of North Carolina and their families with consumer financial services for over 70 years. Currently serving nearly 1.7 million members, SECU provides services through 238 branch offices, nearly 1,100 ATMs, 24/7 Contact Centers and a website, www.ncsecu.org.

SOURCE State Employees' Credit Union