When a Member sat down with UFCU to review her auto loan, she expected a routine refinance. Instead, she discovered more than $18,000 in unnecessary add-ons tied to her original dealership financing.
By removing those costs, lowering her rate and replacing them with more affordable services, she began saving $300 each month; relief that quickly reshaped her day-to-day finances.
For UFCU, these outcomes reflect a long-standing approach of helping Members better understand their finances and make decisions that support long-term stability.
“Members walk away from UFCU interactions confidently, not just because they’re saving money, but because they feel genuinely cared for by their financial institution. That’s exactly what we aim to do,” business development manager Derion Jackson said.
Pouring into the Pearland community
Since UFCU opened its Pearland branch just six months ago, it has focused on building relationships through community-driven efforts.
They have contributed $20,000 to help cover school lunch debt across Pearland ISD and Alvin ISD. This effort is designed to ease financial strain for families and ensure students have access to meals.
“Eliminating lunch debt is a very intentional investment in our community; it’s about helping parents reduce some financial burden so they and their children can focus more on their education,” UFCU Vice President of Retail Janice Matthews said.
UFCU also made an early impression by sponsoring and participating in Pearland’s Hometown Christmas Parade, helping to introduce the organization to residents.
That presence has translated into lasting partnerships. UFCU works closely with the Pearland Chamber of Commerce, building relationships with local leaders and businesses. As a result of that connection, Chamber President Jim Johnson is now a UFCU Member.
UFCU is also involved with the Texas Exes Katy and Houston Chapters, and the Pearland ISD Education Foundation. In fact, superintendent Dr. Larry Berger is now a Member. Now serving more than 30,000 Members in the Houston area, UFCU continues to expand its footprint while maintaining a focus on individualized support and long-term financial success.
For Matthews, who has been with the company for 27 years, those connections are central to the purpose.
“People are at the core of what we do,” Matthews said. “We are focused on helping our Members achieve financial success and brighter futures.”
Expanding access to financial tools
Alongside its community involvement, UFCU offers multiple services designed to simplify financial decisions and reduce risk, including:
- DRIVE program: guides Members through the car-buying process, offering tools and support from budgeting to final purchase.
- GAP coverage: helps reduce what you still owe if your vehicle is totaled and your insurance doesn’t cover the full balance. Any eligible extra benefit may also be used toward your next vehicle, based on program rules.
- Mechanical breakdown protection: functions as an extended warranty, with no deductible.
- Debt collections: covers up to three months of payments during unexpected life events, such as job loss or disability.
- Auto loans: have annual percentage rates (APRs) as low as 4.99%.
UFCU also prioritizes accessibility with Spanish-language lending services, ensuring more Members can confidently navigate their financial options.
Celebrating 90 years
As UFCU marks its 90th anniversary, it is looking back on its growth from 30 to more than 422,000 Members and from $855 in deposits to over $4 billion in assets. The organization is celebrating this by reinvesting in its Members.
Throughout May, Members can participate in a referral program offering $90 to both the referring Member and the new Member who joins. Additional promotions include the option to defer auto loan payments for 90 days, along with in-branch events and giveaways.
Looking ahead
With a growing presence in the Houston area and deepening community partnerships, UFCU continues to build on a 90-year legacy centered on people and long-term impact.
Learn more about UFCU’s services, community involvement or 90th anniversary promotions today.
About UFCU
UFCU is a Member-owned, not-for-profit financial institution with more than 422,000 Members and $4 billion in assets. Founded in 1936, UFCU empowers financial success across Texas communities and is dedicated to building a brighter future for all through personalized Member service, innovative products, and financial education. Discover more at UFCU.org, or become a Member. UFCU membership subject to eligibility. Terms and conditions apply.
90th anniversary promotions valid May 1 through May 31, 2026. $90 Refer-a-Friend bonus limited to first-time UFCU Members. Visit UFCU.org/Sweeps for full terms and conditions.
APR= Annual Percentage Rate. Auto loans subject to credit eligibility. Certain restrictions apply. Rates subject to change. Interest may accrue during the no-payment period. Visit UFCU.org/Sweeps for full terms and conditions.
Federally insured by NCUA.
The above story was produced by Senior Multi-Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact’s Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their “sponsored content” purchase through our advertising team.