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Feel Good Moments: January 2023 Round-Up

Every day, First New York Federal Credit Union (FCU) employees work hard to give you excellent customer service and the assistance you need. We’ve talked to four great employees to hear their exceptional stories about how they’ve helped members. In this January 2023 round-up, you’ll meet:

• Ben Lawrence, Albany Branch Manager:
• Phil Craan, Niskayuna Branch Manager;
• Michelle Maneri, Contact Center Manager; and
• Kara Sour, First New York Retirement & Investment Services Coordinator.

Together, they’ll share the feel-good moments that have left them feeling proud to give members the help they need. Here are some stories they’d like to share with you.

Ben: Helping Members in a Variety of Ways

“I’ve enjoyed being able to help members and non-members with lower credit scores get approved for a loan they normally wouldn’t; learn to budget to free up money that’s already theirs; and understand their First New York accounts. It’s also been great to hear members state that certain staff is the reason they keep coming back and recommending us,” says Ben.

Phil: Took Care of a Frustrating Situation

“I had a member who was purchasing a Harley from out of state, and it required the member to contact the Seller to forward him a copy of the title. The seller was giving our member a hard time because in that state the title is held at the bank until it’s paid in full, which is different from how we do it in New York,” says Phil.

“The member was frustrated and feeling somewhat overwhelmed, so I decided to call the seller on his behalf and explained to him why we needed the title and how this would expedite the sale of his Harley which was the end goal. I called the member back and told him that I took care of it. The member was appreciative of the extra step I took, and it made him feel less anxious,” Phil adds.

Michelle: Participating in Giving Back

“I’ve been grateful to have the chance to give back in my role at First New York through our People Helping People initiative,” says Michelle. “This year we’ve raised money from our members, staff, and community for these great organizations: Regional Food Bank, Things of my Very Own, Tabs for Tyler, Saratoga Warhorse, Project Hope, Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, March of Dimes, and Make a Wish Foundation.”

Kara: Connecting Members with the First New York Retirement & Investment Services Team

“It’s great being able to help our First New York Retirement & Investment team in my position,” Kara explains. “My favorite part is assisting our team in helping anyone who would like to use investment services. We offer many investment products to First New York FCU members and non-members as well as virtual education seminars. We also help anyone with no commitment, no charge, and no obligation for meetings or consultation.”

Learn More about How First New York Can Help

Thanks, Ben, Phil, Michelle, and Kara for sharing your feel-good stories in this January Round Up! First New York appreciates the work that you do to help members and non-members in their financial journey.

If you want to learn more about our guests, you can read about them in our “Getting to Know Us: First New York Q&A” article! You can also browse our Learning Center for how-to guides, Q&As, and informative articles as well as check out our latest News & Events. If you need assistance, please visit us online or contact us today!