For nearly three decades, Gas & Electric Credit Union (GECU) has called downtown Rock Island home. Located at 23rd Street and 4th Avenue, the credit union has built its reputation on helping members save money, access affordable financial services and achieve their financial goals. Just as importantly, GECU has remained committed to supporting the community that surrounds it.
That commitment is one reason GECU is proud to sponsor Downtown Rock Island's 2nd Saturdays event, occurring monthly, June through October. "We've been around since 1935," said GECU President Daryl Empen. "For about one-third of that time, we've been located in Downtown Rock Island. Supporting downtown is a big part of our mission and who we are."
Unlike many credit unions that serve entire communities, GECU operates as a sponsor-based credit union. Membership is available through a network of employer partners throughout the region, including companies such as MidAmerican Energy, Modern Woodmen, the City of Rock Island, BITCO Insurance, Augustana College and many others.
Several years ago, GECU expanded membership eligibility even further by welcoming employees of businesses throughout Downtown Rock Island. That means if you work for a business located between 15th Street and 38th Street, you may be eligible to join GECU. Eligibility extends not only to employees, but also to their family members. As member-owners, GECU members share in the success of the credit union and benefit from an organization focused on serving people rather than maximizing profits. Members have access to competitive checking and savings accounts, rewards checking, credit cards, mortgages, consumer loans and other financial services.
"We pride ourselves on lower fees and saving our members money," Empen said. "Putting money back in your pocket is what we're all about."
For GECU, sponsoring 2nd Saturdays is a natural extension of its long-standing investment in Downtown Rock Island. "We definitely have a vested interest in seeing Downtown Rock Island thrive and be successful," Empen said. "Second Saturdays are a great way to show our support for the businesses downtown and for downtown in general."
Empen sees that energy firsthand, not only as the president of a downtown-based credit union, but also as a resident in the nearby Broadway District. "It's just a great vibe," he said. "There are young families, music, bubble stations and activities happening all around. It's a great family event that shows what Rock Island is and can be."
For anyone considering a visit, Empen encourages them to make a day of it. Browse the Farmers Market, grab coffee or breakfast, discover a new favorite local business, enjoy live music or simply take in the atmosphere that makes Downtown Rock Island unique.
For GECU, supporting events like 2nd Saturdays is about more than sponsorship. It's about investing in the people, businesses and neighborhoods that make Downtown Rock Island a vibrant place to live, work and visit. "Come on down and enjoy everything downtown Rock Island has to offer," said Empen.