History

Columbia Credit Union has a history of providing outstanding member service and has grown to become one of Clark County’s leading financial institutions. Follow our growth and progression over the years from serving railroad employees in our founder’s basement to where we are today.

Planting Seeds
In 1952, Delbert Thompson started the SP&S Federal Credit Union in his basement to serve SP&S Railroad employees. Delbert kept it on track for six years before the credit union grew into its first office and hired a president - Ed Gard, Jr. followed by Marvin Showalter. The charter changed in 1975, enabling the credit union to serve both railroad employees and community members. Thus, Columbia Credit Union took root.

Fruits of Innovation Benefit Members
As a progressive organization, Columbia has evolved to meet our members’ changing financial needs by offering innovative products and services while updating old standbys. Our vision continues to evolve but serving our community and delivering value remains at the heart of our organization.

In 1975, we were the first credit union on the West Coast to offer checking accounts, demonstrating a pioneering spirit and prompting a 20-year growth spurt. We were among the first credit unions to offer innovative banking conveniences like ATMs, money market accounts, online banking, e-statements, online mortgage tools, business banking and wealth management. And in 2007, we embraced our environmentally friendly principles and were the first Clark County financial institution to commit to building sustainable branches.

Community Commitment: Learn more about how and why Columbia is involved in our community.

Deep Roots, Wide Branches
Since 1980, Columbia has branched into 12 Clark County locations. To increase member convenience, we relocated our Downtown Branch in 2003 and moved the Heights branch to its Grand Central location in 2008. While we're poised for additional growth and change in the future, our members will continue to find great service within our branches. Our dedicated employees provide this foundation.

According to our latest independent member survey, 97 percent of members rate our overall service as "satisfactory or highly satisfactory." This rating is a benchmark for the financial institution industry!

The credit union philosophy is “people helping people,” and you’ll find that philosophy endures at Columbia today — we listen and respond as only a locally-owned financial institution can.