For YOU.
Azura is not only defined by what we say and do, but also by the way our members feel about selecting us as their financial institution. We are the sum of all interactions and transactions with our members. If we can empower them to feel proud, confident, knowledgeable, secure, in control of their finances and hopeful for their future, then we have gone ABOVE AND BEYOND BANKING.
For everyone.
We are on a mission to make sure that everyone has access to valuable products and services, as well as the resources and literacy to make good decisions about their finances.
All about community.
We employ our community. We serve our community. We create gathering places for our community. And, because we’re a cooperative business, we are owned by the community. Our deep roots and rich history help us stand out from the competition.
Good for each other.
We’re owned and operated by real people right here, not a corporate financial institution hundreds of miles away. That allows us to prioritize our community, our members and the success of them both. When you bank here, you help strengthen our collective impact on our local economies.
Our History & Mission
Our Mission:
Azura is enhancing lives by delivering innovative financial service, education and value through personal and community engagement.
Our History:
1939 - Topeka Teachers Credit Union founded, later known as Educational Credit Union
1951 - Rubber Workers Local 307 Federal Credit Union founded, later known as Credit Unions United (CUU)
1956 - Kansas Highway Credit Union founded, later known Kansas Credit Union (KCU)
1984 - KCU and Forbes Credit Union merge to become Credit Union 1 (CU1)
2010 - CU1 and CUU merge to form Quest
2016 - Quest and Educational merge to form Azura
Our Membership
Azura’s field of memberships spreads across 54 different Kansas counties - open to anyone residing, working or worshipping in those areas. Additionally, membership is open to:
- All employees and retirees of American Telephone and Telegraph, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Southwestern Bell Communications, U.S. Government (both military and civilian), local, municipal and state governments.
- All employees, retirees and members of American Legion Post 400, TARC or United Steelworkers Union Local #400.
- All employers and students of Kansas educational institutions.
- Any spouse, parent, step-parent, grandparent, child, step-child, adopted child, sibling, grandchild or former spouse of any persons eligible to be a member of Azura Credit Union.
Credit Union vs. Bank: What’s the Difference?
Ever wondered why some financial institutions are called banks while others are referred to as credit unions? While both types of institutions offer similar services, they operate differently and have distinct characteristics. If you're weighing the choice between a bank and a credit union, understanding the key differences can help you make an informed decision.
Similarities
- Checking and savings accounts
- Loans for cars, homes, and more
- Online banking and mobile apps
- Business accounts
- Federally Insured
Key Differences
1. Structure and Purpose
Credit unions operate as not-for-profit organizations, focusing on serving their members and communities. At Azura, we embrace the philosophy of "People Helping People," aiming to improve lives through our services and community involvement.
2. Membership and Ownership
When you join a credit union, you become a “member-owner,” which means you have an equal voice in how the credit union is run, regardless of your account balance. Credit unions are governed by an elected, volunteer Board of Directors. In contrast, banks are managed by a paid Board of Directors whose primary goal is to maximize profits for shareholders, not account holders.
3. Profit Distribution
Credit unions return their profits to members in the form of competitive interest rates, low fees, and dividends. This contrasts with banks, where profits typically benefit shareholders.
How Profits Benefit You
- Competitive loan rates
- Low fees
- Attractive deposit interest rates
- Exclusive member perks
With more than 105 million credit union members in the U.S., credit unions offer numerous benefits and services designed to help you achieve your financial goals. Consider joining a credit union today to experience these advantages firsthand.
Membership Benefits
Member Discounts
Financial Wellness
