Press

MIAMI, FL (October 28, 2014) — South Florida Educational Federal Credit Union (FCU) celebrated the opening of its newest high school branches, Wildcat Credit Union and Cuda Credit Union, earlier this month. Located inside Westland Hialeah and Coral Reef Senior High Schools, respectively, the student-run branches will operate as part of the Credit Union’s in-school branch program.

“The Credit Union is proud to partner with Miami-Dade County Public Schools in this joint endeavor, said Michael DiBenedetto, President/CEO. It benefits everyone – from our students, to teachers, and parents. We have always been an advocate of financial literacy and giving back to the educational community, and implementing student- operated credit unions is the perfect way to help students get real-world financial exposure.”

Participating students have the opportunity to gain valuable experience in a safe environment. Under the management and mentorship of South Florida Educational FCU employees, they learn practical work skills by serving as tellers, member service representatives and marketing staff for their respective branches. The students may also receive honors credit through Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Career Experience Opportunity (CEO) Program.

“The experiences students have with their credit union today are the building blocks towards a lifetime of financial responsibility,” added DiBenedetto.

The opening of Wildcat and Cuda CUs, brings the total number of in-school branches to 13. South Florida Educational FCU also conducts classroom workshops as part of its award winning “Got Green?” financial literacy program. Topics include goal setting, money management, budgeting, investing, and credit management.
To learn more about South Florida Educational Federal Credit Union and its programs, send an email to Youthed@sfefcu.org or call 305-270-6696.

South Florida Educational Federal Credit Union is the largest Credit Union headquartered in Miami-Dade County and serves educators, students and the families of Miami-Dade County Public Schools and Miami Dade College. South Florida Educational FCU is committed to increasing educational opportunities for students in Miami Dade County. Please visit www.sfefcu.org/aboutus/community.html for more information.