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The credit union was organized in September 1962 by the employees of Philip Morris. The original charter members had a vision that the employees, both hourly and salaried, could pool their funds together and benefit the entire membership. They were indeed visionaries, since Call Federal Credit Union now has assets over $270 million and serves over 30,000 members. During those beggining years, the entire operation was handled by volunteers. The motivation for those original pioneers was to see a financial institution grow with the support of dedicated people to a mutual cause.
One of the first offices was on Dock Street. After the third flood, it washed down the river. The earlier officials and staff of the credit union would pack trucks and head for higher ground when flooding was inevitable. After the devastating flood that washed away the credit union office, Philip Morris moved the credit union to Cary Street where operations picked up where they left off. These times were truly reflective of the pioneer spirit of the credit union staff and officials and the conviction that Call Federal was here to stay.
The credit union remained at the Cary Street location until they were provided space in the new Manufacturing Center built on Commerce Road. Call Federal remained in that space until Philip Morris purchased the current location and moved the credit union in the old United Virginia Bank building. This was 1979.
From that date, the credit union grew and prospered with the loyalty of its members to its current expansion twenty years later. The credit union was approximately $5 million in assets when they came to 4605 Commerce Road and remained in the 2000 sq. ft. space until the expansion of 1999 where the credit union boasted approximately $180 million in assets . This major milestone was only possible because of devoted and loyal members and the dedication of a strong and able group of staff and credit union officials. It is through their vision and determination that we can enjoy the benefits of our expanded facility
What’s In a Name?
When the charter members met to name the organization, they were very mindful of the great advertising motto of the Philip Morris trademark, “Little Johnny,” the small bellhop that could bellow the famous words, “CALL for Philip Morris”. Thus the name Call Federal Credit Union was established. It is with great pride that this name is still in use today.
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