KEKAHA — The recent merger of Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union and the former Kekaha Federal Credit Union has resulted in a special $2 million cash dividend paid to all qualified KFCU members on Nov. 15. Members were notified by mail or phone call.
“We are pleased to announce this dividend disbursement will be shared among our eligible KFCU members,” said Lori Cardenas, chair of the Kekaha Credit Union Advisory Board. “Both credit unions thought it was important to acknowledge and thank our members for all their support over the years. We also agreed to maintain the identity of Kekaha as a longstanding credit union with deep community ties and historical significance.”
Effective Nov. 1, the merger between the credit unions provides enhanced products and services while retaining the Kekaha institution’s identity under a co-branding agreement.
Co-branding allows former KFCU members to use all Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union branches, systems, products and services while identifying themselves as “Kekaha Credit Union, a Division of Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union.”
A new logo also features Kekaha’s iconic sugar mill. The former KFCU board will remain active as the Kekaha Credit Union Advisory Board.
“This special dividend demonstrates we are financially stronger together, and we are committed to the Kekaha community,” said Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union President and CEO Vince J. Otsuka. “Delivering value to our members is top priority, and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve the Kekaha community in the years to come. When you have Aloha, anything is possible.”
“Our plantation community in Kekaha is one big family,” said Timotea Munar, who has been a member of KFCU for over half a century. “The credit union is part of this family – always there for us, from our first car, home, and even helping us put four kids through college. I’m very happy this new partnership allows our credit union to stay in Kekaha for many generations to come.”
In addition, the community is invited to the Kekaha Credit Union community celebration on Dec. 14 from 3 to 5 p.m. for free refreshments, entertainment, games and prizes.
