Our Community Credit Union: Rooted in Service, Rising Toward Tomorrow

Every community has its heartbeat, the people, businesses, and organizations that make life vibrant. For 85 years, Our Community Credit Union (OURCU) has been part of that heartbeat in Mason County and beyond. What started in 1941 as a small financial cooperative for local loggers from Simpson Logging Company, has since grown into a trusted financial partner for thousands of families and businesses across Washington. As OURCU steps into its 85th year, one thing is clear: this credit union isn’t slowing down, it’s gearing up for an even brighter future.

OURCU isn’t just a place to deposit checks or apply for loans. It’s a place where members are owners, where decisions are made locally, and where success is shared throughout each community served.

Looking back on 2025 alone, OURCU was able to award $50,000 in scholarships to help local students chase their dreams. It funded two new K9 units for the Shelton Police Department, making our streets safer and through continued partnerships with rural community hospitals, OURCU helped support growth of health care access and services in both Mason and Grays Harbor counties.

It’s not just about writing checks. OURCU employees volunteered more than 1,600 hours last year, serving almost 70 organizations across 4 counties. From teaching financial literacy to rolling up their sleeves at local events, they live the credit union philosophy of “people helping people,” every day!

This milestone year also marks a new chapter for OURCU. In May, the credit union welcomed Philip Prothero as Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned leader with deep roots in the Pacific Northwest, Prothero brings a vision and energy that blends tradition with innovation.

“My career journey has given me a unique perspective on leadership, one rooted in community and the importance of giving back,” Prothero says. “We’re excited to expand our services, deepen our investment in members and local communities, and explore innovative ways to connect. Our goal is simple: to empower everyone we serve to achieve their best financial life.”

Under his leadership, OURCU is embracing the future, exploring expansion of new digital banking tools, growing financial education opportunities, and looking for new ways to collaborate with local partners to enhance support of local businesses.

In a world dominated by big banks and faceless transactions, OURCU offers something rare: a relationship. It’s a place where you’re not just another person in the crowd, you’re part of a community.

For chamber members and local businesses, OURCU offers more than financial services, it provides true partnership. That means collaboration, access to resources that help fuel business growth, tools to help families plan, and programs that strengthen communities. When people feel secure, supported, and confident in managing their finances, they’re empowered to thrive; and that’s what OURCU is committed to delivering.

As OURCU celebrates 85 years of service, its commitment remains steadfast: to build lifelong relationships by empowering members, employees, and communities through personalized service. With deep roots and a forward-looking vision, OURCU continues to help people live their best financial lives, proving that when financial institutions put people first, they create lasting impact and stronger communities.

To learn more about membership, services, or community programs, visit ourcu.com.