Additional mergers that strengthened the credit union
Two more mergers followed in this period:
- Pierce Associates Credit Union in 1984
- May Co Credit Union, later Robinson’s May Credit Union, in 1990
These additions expanded our member groups to include retail employees who served communities across Los Angeles County.
A new name that reflected continued evolution
In 1985, the credit union requested a name change that was approved by the NCUA. The new name became 1st City Savings Federal Credit Union, a title that reflected our growth while maintaining the heritage of the original charter.
A decade that broadened our impact
This chapter brought together people who played vital roles throughout Los Angeles County. Social service teams, healthcare providers, educators, and retail employees joined a financial cooperative that shared their commitment to communal service!
These partnerships broadened our reach and strengthened our role as a trusted member-owned financial institution.
Serving more Angelenos as our community grew (2000s-2010s)
The early 2000s marked a period of transformation that shaped the modern identity of First City Credit Union. Charter changes, rebranding efforts, and new partnerships allowed us to serve a broader community while staying true to our founding mission.
Becoming a state-chartered credit union
In May 2002, we converted from a Federal Charter to a California State Charter. This change allowed First City, as a Los Angeles credit union, to continue serving our long-standing member groups and also expand access to residents in communities near our branches throughout LA County.
During this period, we updated our name to First City Credit Union and introduced the swoosh logo that members continue to recognize today. The updated identity reflected a commitment to cooperative financial services and community-focused growth.
A major partnership with Focus One
Growth accelerated again in 2010 through a significant merger with Focus One Credit Union. First City had gradually added several hospital member groups over the years, which played a key role in strengthening this partnership. When the merger was completed in October 2010, three major healthcare organizations became part of the First City community:
- Los Angeles County General Hospital
- Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
- Huntington Hospital
Our new member groups included nurses, physicians, administrators, and support staff who dedicated their work to serving the public.
A decade that opened new doors
This era expanded our ability to serve County employees, healthcare workers, and community members throughout Los Angeles County. The state charter and the Focus One merger marked a major step forward in building a stronger, more accessible member-owned financial institution!
Your First City Credit Union today
First City Credit Union has become one of the nation’s strongest, most robust financial institutions. We are proudly member-owned, support a wide range of people who serve Los Angeles County, serve over 56,000 members, and manage over $900 million in assets. A capital reserve ratio above 13% places First City among the most resilient financial institutions in the country and reflects decades of responsible stewardship.
Honoring our founding relationship with the Sheriff’s Department
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department remains an important part of the Credit Union’s identity. This connection traces back to our original member groups in 1937. Today, the partnership continues through programs such as 999 for Kids, which supports vulnerable children across the County in partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Child and Family Services, the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALADS), and of course the stations, jails, and administrative offices of the Los Angeles County Sheriff.
A membership as diverse as the County itself
The First City community reflects the vibrancy, commitment, and beauty of our County:
- Deputies and employees of the Los Angeles County Sheriff
- Social workers who assist Los Angeles County families in need like DPSS and DCFS
- Healthcare workers who provide essential care, including employees at LA County General Medical Center and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA)
This small sampling represents the larger population of dedicated people who keep Los Angeles County running. And their service and commitment are truly at the heart of First City Credit Union’s identity.
Shaped by the people we serve
Our growth has always been guided by the people who belong to it. Each new member group and community initiative reflects the founding principle of Angelenos serving Angelenos. The numbers tell part of the story but the real legacy lives in the members who support one another and build stronger financial futures, together.
Building the future together with our members
For nearly 90 years, First City Credit Union has stood beside the people who serve Los Angeles County. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputies, social workers, hospital staff, along with other County administrators and employees have shaped our story through their service and dedication.
Honoring our founding vision
In 1937, ten Los Angeles County employees believed that by working together, they could build something stronger for their colleagues and families. They began with $149 dollars and a shared commitment to supporting one another. That commitment continues to guide us today!
Carrying our mission into the future
First City Credit Union remains dedicated to the values that defined its early years. Angelenos serving Angelenos is much more than a statement, because it truly reflects who we are as a not-for-profit, member-owned, financial cooperative. These principles have guided us since 1937 and will continue to shape our path for generations.
A legacy rooted in service
If you’re a Los Angeles County employee, Deputy, healthcare professional, or somehow connected to Los Angeles County - you’re part of our story too.
You’re part of a long tradition of people helping people build stronger financial futures, together.
Welcome to your First City Credit Union family!