Starting in 1934 with just $49 in deposits, seven workers from the Omaha Telephone Company set out to form an extraordinary financial institution that would meet customers’ financial needs. One that cares about its members. One that focuses on the credit union industry mantra of “people helping people.”
From the beginning, Omaha Telephone Employees Federal Credit Union, later known as Bell Federal Credit Union and today as Centris Federal Credit Union, understood the importance of mutual support and community, laying the foundation for their legacy of dedication and exceptional service.
Fast-forward 90 years and that $49 has grown to an impressive $1 billion in assets. From seven original members there’s now a community of 132,000 members, supported by nearly 350 employees offering services from 15 branches in Nebraska and Iowa. This remarkable growth has never shifted Centris from its original mission of being a trusted lifelong financial partner.
Steve Swanstrom, Centris president and CEO said, “The seven original members founded the credit union because their financial needs were not being met. From Day One, it’s been woven into our culture that we will provide the products and services our members need and want and serve as that helping hand during their financial journey.”
The Centris mantra is to be “centered on the experience,” emphasizing that it is the day-to-day experiences that members, employees and the community will remember most. Making that experience profoundly positive is of the utmost importance to Centris.
This focus on providing exceptional service has not gone unnoticed. Centris has been voted the Omaha’s Choice Awards Top Choice for Credit Union, as well as favorite for Mortgage Company, Customer Service and Employer (200-plus employees). This is a testament to how their dedication to member satisfaction and community engagement makes a difference.
“We are extremely grateful for the support the Omaha community has shown us through the Omaha’s Choice Awards,” said Swanstrom. “We emphasize living by our mantra every day, and it’s rewarding to see how it positively affects our members, employees and community.”
With a strong emphasis on supporting the communities they serve, Centris has woven themselves into the fabric of their communities through volunteerism, donations and sponsorships. Supporting their communities also means celebrating them, and what better way to celebrate than with a grand event. To mark their 90th year in business, Centris proudly presents Centris Music Fest to thank their members, employees and community.
On Saturday, July 27, 2024, from 2 to 10 p.m. at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village, Centris Music Fest will feature a variety of live local bands and family fun activities, with the evening being capped off by a spectacular fireworks show. Admission is free and open to all those in the community.
Swanstrom is extremely excited about the celebration. “Centris Music Fest is about celebrating all those who have supported Centris throughout the past 90 years. It will be a fun event, and I hope our community comes out for a day of live music and fun activities.”
Centris Music Fest is not just an event — it is a celebration of the impressive journey that Centris Federal Credit Union embarked on within its community in 1934. Join them in celebrating this 90-year milestone and the bright future ahead.
For more information, please visit centrisfcu.org.
