For 85 years, the Kansas City Credit Union has been more than just a financial institution – it’s been a cornerstone of the Kansas City community. Founded on the belief that people deserve access to banking that’s fair and with their best interests in mind, members have relied on Kansas City Credit Union for fair loans, safe savings, and financial security. From helping families purchase their first home to supporting local businesses, Kansas City Credit Union continues the legacy that first began nearly a century ago.
The Early Days
Kansas City Credit Union opened its first branch in City Hall in 1940. PC: The Pendergast Years
Credit unions first began to appear in the United States in the early 20th century. Their growth was slow but steady until the Great Depression. The financial devastation suffered by millions of Americans drove mistrust in banks and the need for a new, more community-focused option. In 1934, as part of the New Deal, Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law the Federal Credit Union Act, encouraging fair access to credit and financial stability for all.
Enactment of the law saw a new wave of credit unions opening across the United States, and on October 21, 1940, the Kansas City Credit Union opened its doors. The first branch was in City Hall and had 8 employees. At first, the credit union was solely for employees of the City of Kansas City and their families. Credit unions specifically serve a “field of membership,” as opposed to commercial banks, which are open to absolutely everyone.
“People Helping People”
This cooperative approach taken by credit unions created a “common bond” that made it easier for members to trust pooling their money to assist each other. Today, Kansas City Credit Union’s field of membership has grown to include anyone who works, worships, or resides in Jackson, Cass, or Clay County, Missouri, as well as employees of University Health (formerly Truman Medical Center), KCATA-The Metro, A.B. May Heating & AC, Prier Products Inc., and City of Kansas City, MO.
Kansas City Credit Union’s main branch is now located at 5110 Ararat Dr.
Trust and confidence grew in credit unions during the post-WWII era, and in 1970, the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund was established, adding further security to the credit union system. In 1977, credit unions were allowed to offer members even more services, such as share certificates (similar to CDs) and mortgage lending.
At Kansas City Credit Union, members continue to benefit from a welcoming community atmosphere and a diverse selection of financial products and services. And, as part of the celebration for our 85th Anniversary, we are giving back even more to our members with some amazing offers. Check them out here!
Sports Radio host (and 10-year member!) Steven St. John says, “What drew me to Kansas City Credit Union was the competitive savings rates and various loan options. What’s kept me here is the personal connection. I know when I call, I’ll reach someone local who understands my needs and connects me to the right solutions.”
Today, Kansas City Credit Union continues to serve its members, combining decades of experience with innovative tools and resources that make managing money easier, smarter, and more personal than ever before. With Kansas City Credit Union on your side, you can build stability, achieve your goals, and stay connected to a community that has been putting its people first for 85 years.
