Mission, Vision, and Values

Transforming Generations and Communities. Simply. Personally.

What is a Vision Statement?

A Vision Statement is an inspiring, clear, and concise statement that reveals the character, beliefs, and core of an organization. It contains the aspirations of internal stakeholders and the hope of those who use the organization towards its purpose. Our Vision Statement is an enduring message that reflects the will of our employees, volunteers, and members.

What does it mean?

“Transforming” – one definition of transforming is changing in form or character.  We want to change people’s lives for the better.

“Generations” indicates the ability to serve members at various stages of their life, and the ability for families of our current members to join the Credit Union.

"and" - small but important word that indicates inclusion.

“Communities” can be looked at very locally – for example, the “community of Cortland”; more broadly: “the Finger Lakes community”; or globally: “the New York State community,” or the “community of credit unions.”  We will have an impact wherever our members and employees experience community.

 “Simply” - Banking and personal finance are complicated.  Caring is not.  We strive to know our members on a more personal level, giving us the ability to provide them with relevant, easy-to-understand information that cuts through the clutter.

“Personally” - at our core is a passion to help members.  If we can positively impact members as individuals, which impacts their families and communities, then we have accomplished our goal.

Spirit

We value each other as individuals and believe that people who enjoy coming to work are happier. We provide our members with an experience, not a transaction. We celebrate all of the nuances of life and seek to make every day one of discovery, joy, and excitement.  

Collaboration

We believe that great decisions start by valuing different ideas and opinions, fostering inclusion, caring about others, and being transparent in our approach. Partnering with other stakeholders and organizations gives us the breadth of knowledge and experience to be successful. Decisions must always be genuine to our members, employees, and communities.  

Innovation

We have the courage, curiosity, and agility to lead change, simplify experiences, and encourage transformation. We are always learning, remain resilient, and continuously look for ways to improve how we interact with those around us. We understand that our member and employee services must be easy to access, understand, and utilize.  

Impact

We partner with our members, employees, and communities to provide solutions and growth opportunities that will improve their financial well-being. We seek to empower the lives of our members, employees, and communities in every way.  

Community

We recognize that our local communities are everything. Investing in our communities is investing in ourselves, our neighbors, our coworkers, and our Credit Union. We recognize that diversity is what makes our communities great and strive to support and reflect that diversity within our organization. Compassion is at the core of what we do.