In a financial world that’s increasingly digital, fast-moving, and impersonal, one thing has never gone out of style: people helping people.
That simple idea is what sparked the creation of credit unions nearly a century ago, and it’s the same principle that continues to guide First Financial as we prepare to celebrate 90 years of service today on February 6th!
Pictured above: Tellers and members from our first branch location in Asbury Park, NJ when we were Monmouth County Teachers FCU.
Where Credit Unions Began
Credit unions were born out of necessity. In the early 20th century, many working families and small business owners were shut out of traditional banking. Loans were hard to access, savings options were limited, and financial support often depended on who you knew, not what you needed. Credit unions changed that.
Built by communities, for communities – credit unions were designed to be member-owned, not profit driven. Their mission was clear – to provide fair, affordable financial services and help people build stability, security, and opportunity. That mission still matters today.
The Power of People First Banking
While technology has transformed the way we bank, the value of local, relationship-based financial institutions has only grown stronger.
At First Financial, “putting people first” isn’t just a phrase or a tagline, it’s how business gets done every day. When you become a member, that means you’ll receive:
- Personal service from people who know your name, your financial goals, and your community.
- Thoughtful lending decisions made locally, not by algorithms or distant headquarters.
- Financial guidance rooted in trust, not just transactions.
When you walk into our credit union or connect with us online, you’re not just an account number: You’re a member. An owner. A neighbor.
Investing Where It Matters Most
Local banking keeps dollars circulating close to home. Credit unions are known to reinvest in the communities they serve – supporting local businesses, non-profits, schools, and families. Every loan, every account, and every financial decision contributes to a stronger local economy.
Over the past 90 years, First Financial has grown alongside the people and communities it serves, adapting to changing needs while staying rooted in the same cooperative values that sparked its founding.
Trust Built Over Generations
For nine decades, members have turned to First Financial during life’s biggest moments – buying a home, starting a business, planning their future, and navigating unexpected challenges. Those relationships span generations, creating a legacy of stability and care that larger institutions typically can’t replicate. In an era when financial choices can feel overwhelming, having a trusted local partner makes all the difference.
Honoring the Past, Building the Future
As we celebrate our official 90th anniversary, we’re taking time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going.
This milestone isn’t just about longevity. It’s about resilience, adaptability, and staying true to the values that matter most. Throughout the year ahead, we’ll be celebrating this anniversary with member stories, special promotions, and moments that honor our history while looking toward the future. You can find out all the ways we’ll be celebrating 90 years on our website, which will continuously be updated throughout 2026.
Why Banking Local Still Matters
Ninety years strong is more than a milestone, it’s a reminder that when financial institutions are built on trust, service, and community – everyone benefits. Local decisions create lasting impact, and when people come together with a shared purpose – they can build something that lasts for generations.
Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to 90 years, and many more to come!
Want to learn more about our journey? Explore our history and the people-first values that have guided us for 90 years.
Not a First Financial member yet but want to join us? First Financial membership is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey. Learn more about getting started on our website, or stop into any of our branch locations.
*A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. All personal memberships are part of the Rewards First program and a $5 per month non-participation fee is charged to the base savings account for memberships not meeting the minimum requirements of the program. Click here to view full Rewards First program details. Some restrictions apply, contact the Credit Union for more information.
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