A message from CEO Rose Gunter:

Over the past 18 months, our Board and Senior Management have developed a relationship with City & Police FCU that has evolved into a partnership that will unite our financially strong and healthy institutions. Together, we will continue to be dedicated to serving those on the frontline, including healthcare, law enforcement, and City of Jacksonville workers as well as our existing select employee groups.  This strategic merger, which is pending the approval of its members and our regulators, will increase our resources to add value to both memberships, make a greater impact in the communities we serve, and provide our employees with more growth opportunities.

The merger will expand our branch network and increase potential opportunities for expansion and innovation.  Our combined credit union will operate under the Alive brand and our current State charter.  We will add a tagline to our logo that identifies police, city, and healthcare.  We will retain the same friendly faces and provide the service our members are accustomed to at both of our credit unions, which have very similar cultures.

Once the merger is completed, as early as December 31st, Aaron Logue, City & Police FCU’s CEO will become Alive’s CEO.  Those of you who know Aaron can attest to his strong character work ethic, and commitment to the credit union movement.  He will be a great leader for our credit union.  Aaron worked with us from 2010 – 2012 as AVP of Compliance & Risk Management before becoming the CEO of CPFCU, and before that, he was our auditor with Smoak Davis and Nixon. He served on the NEFL Chapter board for nine years, including as the President for several years.  He currently serves on LSCU’s Florida Advocacy Committee.  Our senior officers will remain the same:  Cindy Smith, SVP Operations, Ricky Joshi, CFO, Shanaz Abadi, VP Member Experience, and Jocelyn Jones, VP Lending.  Personally, I have thoroughly enjoyed working in two credit unions for over 43 years and will greatly miss the meaningful work we do, and each of you.  However, my husband and I have really been looking forward to my retirement for quite a while. 

Both credit unions plan to announce to our members next week after each of you has had time to learn additional details about this wonderful opportunity that will mutually benefit both of our credit unions. Please reach out to me with any questions or bring them to our training sessions next week.  We will have additional information and commonly asked questions that will help answer any member’s questions.

On behalf of our Board of Directors and Senior Management team, who unanimously endorse this merger, thank you in advance for supporting our efforts to grow and preserve the legacy of both credit unions. 

This year in addition to our typical member engagement and branch celebrations, we had our first ever Credit Union Spirit Award.

What is the Credit Union Spirit?

Credit union spirit refers to the fundamental principles and values that guide the operation and culture of credit unions. At its core, credit union spirit embodies the essence of cooperative ownership, member-centric service, and community support. Unlike traditional banks, credit unions are not-for-profit financial institutions owned and governed by their members, who are also customers. This unique structure fosters a strong sense of community, collaboration, and shared responsibility.

The credit union spirit emphasizes the importance of putting members' needs first, offering competitive and transparent financial services, and promoting financial literacy and empowerment. Credit unions are committed to building lasting relationships with their members, often tailoring their products and services to meet specific needs and circumstances.

Furthermore, credit union spirit extends beyond individual members to the communities they serve. Credit unions are active in supporting local initiatives, charitable causes, and community development, with a focus on improving the financial well-being of their members and neighbors.

The 2023 Credit Union Spirit awardees

This year two individuals were nominated repeatedly with a common explanation of deep connection to the Credit Union Movement. Congratulations to both of Alive’s Credit union Spirit Award winners!

Jessica Parmenter

Jess has worked at Alive Credit Union as a Teller, Member Service Representative, and now as the Touchton Branch Supervisor. Over the years Jess has been active in Healthy Habits and CARES. She is always a mentor to teammates around her. One except from a nomination stated “Jess works hard for both our internal and external members. Even when it is a bit overwhelming, she cares for their concerns with a smile.” Another nomination read “every time I have ever had to call Jess, she is always very helpful and pleasant. She always helps me and calls me back if I don't reach her. I know she is very busy but always happy to help you.” Jess, today your peers solute you as embodying the Credit Union philosophy of People Helping People.

Shanaz Abadi

Shanaz has worked at Alive Credit Union for many years. Shanaz has worn many hats and mentored most Alive team members during her tenure. Shanaz shines at supporting both external and internal members, providing support of each individuals career path or member’s financial wellbeing. One nomination read “Shanaz's compassion and empathy for our members and employees is truly remarkable.” While another team member shared, “She is very good with the members, and they love her. They miss her when she is not here or anytime that they don't see her.” Shanaz, we are all grateful for the impact you make on us as a Credit Union and proudly recognize you as a representation of the Credit Union Movement.

After careful planning and dedication, Alive has made a splash on Action News Jax! With our bright tagline “Bank Healthier. Live Happier.” juxtaposed on white at the top of the action news website as well as in sidebar advertisements, marketing and leadership are working to spread the word about our credit union in the Jacksonville community!

In addition to our big splash on the Action News website, you may also see our commercial spot on the local channels, CBS 47 and Fox 30. This commercial stars many of our celebrity coworkers including Dani from Contact Center, Andre and Glenn from IT, Maria in Reception, Rachel in Administration, Lisa and Dylan from Member Service, and Cecilia from Loans. A big round of applause for these stars for stepping up and assisting the credit union in creating this commercial and a standing ovation to Christian, our Marketing & Business Development Manager for making it happen. The commercial shares how Alive does more for our members with multiple checking account options, savings dividends, and our financial education services.

Enjoy these fun behind the scenes Moments captured by Mark in Member Service!

Christian observes and guides the commercial to stay within CEO Rose Gunter’s vision for our CU.

Teller Dylan sits beside a “member”, played by IT Temp Venkat, while showcasing our product booklet.

A drone zooms through the lobby, capturing Hali and Cecilia.

The lobby is bustling with camera crew, Alive’s infamous actors, and lighting!

Be sure to share the commercial with your friends and family! The full version can be found on the Alive CU social media channels.