Business Details
44 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Community-Driven Credit Union in Syracuse, NY
Cooperative Federal has served the Syracuse community since 1982 as a mission-driven, member-owned financial institution. Founded by grassroots organizers committed to social and economic justice, we prioritize equitable access to banking services for underserved populations. Our team brings decades of expertise in community development finance, offering personalized financial counseling, homeownership programs, and small business support.As a federally insured credit union, we combine fiscal responsibility with social impact, reinvesting locally through loans to individuals, nonprofits, and cooperatives. Our commitment to transparency and ethical banking practices has established us as a trusted leader in community finance, serving over 14,000 members while maintaining strict compliance with regulatory standards.
Services
Checking Accounts
Savings Accounts
Auto Loans
Mortgage Loans
Financial Counseling
Small Business Loans
Credit Cards
Home Equity Loans
IRAs
Prepaid Cards
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of community finance expertise in Syracuse neighborhoods
- Our HUD-certified housing counselors provide personalized homeownership guidance
- Member deposits directly fund local economic development projects
- We maintain zero predatory loan products in our service portfolio
- Our bilingual Spanish services support Syracuse's Latinx community growth
Associations and certifications
- National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)
What people say
Family vibe atmosphere
Stress-free car buying
Supportive homeownership specialists
Community investment focus
Personalized financial counseling
Services
Auto Loans
Our auto loans provide affordable financing for new and used vehicles with competitive rates. We offer pre-approval options to help budgeting before purchase and refinancing opportunities to reduce payments. Gap Protection coverage ensures financial security in case of vehicle total loss.
Homebuyer Dream Grants
This program offers up to $20,000 in down payment grants for first-time homebuyers in Central New York. Combined with mortgage financing and mandatory counseling, it makes homeownership accessible while promoting long-term housing stability in underserved communities.
Credit Builder Loans
Designed for credit establishment or rehabilitation, these secured loans build positive credit history while creating savings. With fixed 3.95% APR and flexible terms, they help members achieve better financial standing through responsible borrowing.
Financial Counseling
Our certified counselors provide personalized guidance for budgeting, debt management, and credit repair. Services include virtual and in-person appointments, with specialized programs for first-time homebuyers and small business owners.
Small Business Loans
We support local entrepreneurs with tailored lending solutions for startups and established businesses. Our advisory services include cash flow management and growth strategy development, prioritizing enterprises that strengthen community economic ecosystems.
People
Christina Sauve
CEO
Christina leads with 15+ years of community finance experience, expanding digital services and BIPOC leadership initiatives since becoming CEO in 2019.
Thom Dellwo
Financial Counselor
Thom provides expert financial guidance, specializing in debt management and credit-building strategies for underserved populations through our community-focused programs.
Jim Hartman
Lending Manager
With 20+ years in ethical lending, Jim oversees mortgage and consumer loan programs that prioritize accessibility and long-term financial stability for all members.
Questions
What loan programs help first-time homebuyers?
Our Homebuyer Dream Grants provide down payment assistance up to $20,000 combined with mandatory counseling and mortgage financing options.
How can I build credit with limited history?
Our Credit Builder Loans establish positive credit history while creating savings, featuring 3.95% APR and flexible repayment terms.
Do you offer bilingual banking services?
Yes, we provide Spanish-language financial services including account management, loan processing, and counseling appointments.
What small business support programs exist?
We offer tailored lending solutions, cash flow management advisory, and growth strategy consultations for local entrepreneurs and cooperatives.
How does membership work?
Anyone who lives, works, or worships in our service area can join with a $5 savings account deposit to become a member-owner.
