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Who We Are

Our History

Take a dive into the history of RCU.

Credit unions: for people, not profit

Credit unions are financial institutions with a long history of service and a strong commitment to the philosophy of “people helping people.” We’re focused on service, not profit, and offer the same financial products and services as banks—but at a much greater value.

We're Member-owned

As Member-owned cooperative institutions, credit unions provide a safe place to save and borrow at reasonable rates. Keep reading to learn about the history of credit unions.

Historic milestones

1950

1950

Seven employees of the County of Sonoma form Sonoma County Employees Credit Union (SCECU).

1982

1982

RCU’s first ATM is celebrated.

Credit union changes its name to Redwood Credit Union (RCU) to reflect growth.

1989

1989

RCU expands field of membership to include anyone living or working in Santa Rosa, CA.

1990

1990

RCU expands to Mendocino County with a Ukiah branch.

1993

1993

First Marin County branch opens in San Rafael.

1999

1999

RCU introduced online banking and bill pay.

2000

2000

San Francisco branch opens.

2004

2004

RCU reaches $1 billion in assets. Brett Martinez named President & Chief Executive Officer.

2005

2005

RCU establishes RCU Auto Services location.

2007

2007

RCU completes new Administrative Offices at 3033 Cleveland Avenue in Santa Rosa. First Napa branch opens.

First Napa branch opens.

2017

2017

RCU Community Fund (RCUCF) raises $32 million for North Bay fire relief.

2020

2020

Lake County branch opens.

2022

2022

Napa campus on Devlin Road opens.

2024

2024

RCU named to Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Credit Unions for 2024-2025.

2025

2025

RCU celebrates 75th anniversary with 485,000 Members, 950 team members, and $8.6 billion in assets.

Become a part of history

Become a RCU Member today.

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