Member Newsletter -October 2025
Take Time to be “In the Moment”
We are about to enter the "holiday zone". A time when we add more budgeting, shopping, cooking, cleaning, and wrapping to our already busy schedules. We get into a flurry of adding more outings, events, games, and parties to our already full calendars without stopping to enjoy what all the joyful chaos is all about. So this year, let's make a conscious decision to take time and be 'in the moment' so we don't let another holiday season fly by wrapped up and burnt out.
First, organization is key to a less-stressful holiday. Even Santa makes a list and checks it twice, so why wouldn't we as hard-working, busy moms and dads? Organize calendars with essential dates by priority, color-coding them by event or family member (lower-priority events can even be written in pencil). Start a wish list sheet that everyone in the family can contribute to, including gift, meal, and activity options, so everyone has a say in what you do and where you go.
Next, preparation will keep everything organized and running smoothly. Write out menus so you can begin looking for and storing up necessary ingredients. Discuss with family members the expectations on gifts and gathering times to avoid conflicts. Additionally, designate private spaces for storing gifts and gift wrapping, keeping a list of what you have already bought to save time, effort, and money.
Finally, set aside specific days for family time only. Times to put away the digital devices, turn off the TVs, and spend quality time together. Go on a day-trip. Play board games. Volunteer at a charity. Learn a new hobby. Have a family book club. Try new cuisines. Whatever you do, do it together. After all, in the end, it is not the new sweater or game that makes the holidays special; it is the memories you make together. ~ GKCU
Over the River & Through the Woods
The leaves are turning colors, and the temperatures are, well, not as humid. It's time to get outdoors and enjoy this great place we live and play. And GKCU has some great offerings that will help open doors and lead you outdoors.
Are you an avid outdoorsman with hunting and fishing on your mind? GKCU has great rates on ATVs, campers, golf carts, and boats. Perfect for getting you off-road, into nature, or on the water. We offer a variety of options and discounts for auto-payments.
Are you a master gardener ready to start a fall harvest? GKCU's home equity lines of credit can spruce up any project by tapping into the value you already have in your home, with rates lower than most personal loans or credit cards.
Or are you a quiet adventurer needing a space to get unplugged and unwind? GKCU offers free online bill pay and auto-transfers to ensure your finances are covered even when you're 'off the grid.'
So open the door and roll down the windows; the great outdoors awaits you to fall in love with where you live.
Things to Know: *Collateral loans (boats, campers, ATVs, etc.) vary from 12-120 months terms, based on type of collateral.
*Lines of Credit have a pre-approved limit that revolve based on what you spend and then pay down.
*Annual Percentage Rates are subject to your individual credit and terms. Fixed rates do not change for the life of the loan making your monthly payments the same until paid in full. Discounts are available when payments are set up on auto-pay.
*Save for a down payment.
*Pre-approvals help you know what you can spend and fit within your budget. Stop by or apply online.
Financial Check-Ups
Check-ups. Whether medical, dental, or financial, we avoid them. We know we need them, but, for whatever reason, we are scared to see what might be lying underneath the surface. Just as we prioritize our physical health, it's equally important to take responsibility for our financial health. Surveys show that 88% of Americans say their financial health affects their overall happiness, but almost 1/2 are living paycheck to paycheck. So, what can we do to ensure we are living happily and healthily? Start with your wallet.
Managing your bills and debt payments is crucial to financial health. It may seem daunting at first, but the relief that comes from having a clear understanding of your income sources and spending habits is immeasurable. Gather all your bills and organize them to see where expenses can be modified or eliminated. Prioritize paying off or consolidating higher-interest payments first and ensure you make on-time payments (and more than the minimum if possible).
The best motivation to keep your money in check is setting financial goals. By creating goals, you set out on a clear direction with a winning attitude. This sense of direction and control can be empowering, even if you have to adjust because of a bump in the road. You can still see the road ahead and leave past issues in the rearview mirror.
FREE Shred Event - Open to the Community!
Just SHRED-it!
November 8 from 9am-Noon
Bring us your outdated and expired:
bank statements, bills, legal documents & contracts.
All are shredded ON-SITE -
Quickly, Conveniently & Securely.
We've been out and about! From Healthy Learner's Songwriters in the Round and Leadership Georgetown County, GKCU is proud to support our community. We also support our local educators at Adult Education Week, Golden Apple teachers and in-class financial literacy. We do this all to earn your vote as the Best of the Beach "Best Credit Union." Thank YOU!
