Auto Loan Rates Aren’t the Whole Story! Shopping for a vehicle is exciting… until you start researching auto loans and suddenly every financial institution is advertising “low rates” and special financing offers. One lender says they have the best deal, another promotes a different rate, and before long it can feel impossible to know what actually matters. Here’s the thing: the lowest advertised auto loan rate is not always the best overall loan for your situation. At Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, we believe understanding the full picture can help you make a smarter financial decision and potentially save money over the life of your loan. When you see an ultra-low APR advertised online or on TV, there are often qualifications attached. Those rates may only apply to: Short loan terms Brand new vehicles only Excellent credit scores Large down payments Specific vehicle models or loan amounts That’s why comparing more than just the rate matters. For example, a slightly higher rate with a longer term could give you a monthly payment that fits your real-life budget better. And honestly? That matters when you’re balancing rent, groceries, gas, streaming subscriptions, and everything else life throws at you. Things To Compare Besides The Interest Rate Before signing for an auto loan, ask a few important questions: What loan term is being offered? Some lenders only advertise their best rates on super short terms. Others offer more flexibility that may fit your budget better month to month. Does the offer apply to the vehicle I actually want? Some promotions only work for certain years, makes, or models. Are there extra fees or requirements? Always look for hidden costs, mandatory add-ons, or restrictions that could increase the total amount you pay. Nobody wants to spend hours stressed out over paperwork. We offer faster decisions and more personalized service. Finance Your Way Want to walk into the dealership knowing your budget ahead of time? Get pre-approved before you shop. Already at the dealership? Ask for Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union! Many dealerships can send financing directly to us, making the process simple and convenient while keeping your options open. Basically, you can shop however works best for you. Try an Auto Loan Calculator Before You Buy Not sure what payment fits your budget? Using an auto loan affordability calculator can help you estimate monthly payments, compare loan terms, and understand how much interest you may pay over time before signing paperwork. Don’t Chase the Flashiest Number The best auto loan is not always the one with the lowest giant number in the ad. The right loan is the one that fits: Your budget Your monthly payment comfort level Your vehicle goals Your long-term financial plans When comparing financing options, look at: Monthly payment Loan length Total interest paid Vehicle requirements Customer service and support A good lender should help you understand all of those things clearly before you sign anything. Ready to Explore Your Options? Whether you’re buying your first car, upgrading your ride, refinancing your current loan, or just comparing financing options, Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union is here to help make the process easier. Membership eligibility required. Rates, terms, and conditions subject to change. Federally insured by NCUA. Click Here To Learn More

Howard County Kids Fishing Clinic Howard County offers so much in outdoor experiences, and the Fishing Clinic is a great way for kids to be part of it. Participants will spend time learning, exploring, and enjoying nature while building skills they can use for years to come. It’s more than just fishing; it’s about connecting with the outdoors, our community, and each other.  What is it? The Kids Fishing Clinic is a hands-on summer program designed to teach kids ages 7–14 the basics of fishing while getting them outside and connected to nature. Through a series of classroom-style education nights and real on-the-water experiences, participants learn skills like casting, fish identification, water safety, and more—guided by local experts and volunteers. Each child receives their own fishing gear, and the program wraps up with a live fishing tournament, giving kids the chance to put what they’ve learned into action. It’s all about building confidence, having fun, and enjoying everything Howard County has to offer. Who can participate? Open to kids ages 7–14. Participants do not have to live in Howard County. A parent, guardian, or grandparent must attend sign-ups, complete registration, and sign the waiver. It is strongly recommended that kids attend sign-ups to be properly fitted for life jackets they will receive on Joe Ford Night. At least one adult must attend each Classroom Education Night with the child. For safety reasons (weather, illness, etc.), drop-offs are not allowed. Limit of four kids per adult. Kids with perfect attendance are eligible for Grand Door Prizes on Thursday, July 30. Last year’s prizes included an all-expenses-paid walleye fishing trip to Lake Erie, an autographed duck call from Willie Robertson (Duck Commander, Duck Dynasty), and a kayak.  Sign-Ups June 8, 2026 | 6–9 PM (or until 100 kids are registered)Kokomo High School, Door #1 (west entrance facing Lincoln Road)Line forms at 3 PM (please do not arrive earlier)If needed, an additional session will be held June 10 at the same time and locationA big surprise is planned—you won’t want to miss it! Classroom Education Nights (6–9 PM)July 20, 21, 23, 28, and 30 | Same location July 20 – Joe Ford NightGuest speakers: Kelsie Avery, Mike Young, Mayor Tyler Moore, IDNR Tyler Delauder, ICO Logan Harris, ICO William DaleIncludes Joe Ford Award presentation, mayor remarks, DNR and conservation officer presentationsEach of the 100 kids receives gear: rod and reel combo, life jacket, tackle bag, 5-gallon bucket, rain poncho, snap stringer, fishing towel, T-shirt, soft plastics, and a surprise July 21 – Night 2Guest speaker: Chad Howard (kayaks and kayak fishing)Sessions: fish cleaning, catfish and carp fishing, water structures, casting practice, rods and reelsDoor prizes July 23 – Night 3Guest speakers: Sheriff Jerry Asher and Mark Booth (Take Flight – Birds of Prey)Sessions: bass fishing, panfishing, live bait, walleye fishing, casting practiceDoor prizes July 28 – Night 4Guest speaker: Doug Sikora (crappie angler)Sessions: fish cleaning, catfish and carp fishing, water structures, casting practice, knot tyingDoor prizes July 30 – Final NightGuest speaker: John Martino (ice fishing presentation)Sessions: bass fishing, panfishing, live bait, walleye fishing, casting practice, knot tyingEnds with door prizes and Grand Door Prize drawings Graduation TournamentSaturday, August 1, 2026Kokomo Reservoir Park (500 East, Howard County) 5 AM: Boats launch 7 AM: Opening ceremonies (prayer, national anthem, sponsor recognition, rules) 8–11 AM: Fishing (2 kids per boat) 11 AM: Professional weigh-in During and after weigh-in, a large cookout will be prepared by the cooking team (led by Steve Workman) and served by Kokomo Kiwanis for all participants, families, and volunteers. All 100 kids graduate and receive medals. Awards are given for Most Fish, Biggest Fish, and Most Weight (by age group), along with special honors including the Joe Ford Award and the Mental Attitude Award. Click Here To Learn More

Denim Day 2026: Standing Against Sexual Assault in Our Community On Thursday, April 30th, Solidarity employees at both locations wore denim with purpose to support Denim Day, a global movement focused on sexual assault awareness, consent education, and ending victim blaming. Denim Day serves as a powerful reminder that clothing is never consent. By participating, our team stood in support of survivors and helped bring awareness to an issue that impacts individuals and families across our community. Together, both Solidarity locations turned Jeans Day into meaningful action, raising $645 to support local organizations that provide resources, advocacy, and safe spaces for those affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. At Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, we believe supporting our community goes beyond financial services. It means showing up, giving back, and standing together for what matters. Learn more about the Family Service Association

Investing in the Next Generation: Solidarity partners with Maplecrest Middle School At Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, we believe financial education should start early and be real, relevant, and practical. Recently, our team had the opportunity to visit Maplecrest Middle School to talk with students about financial literacy and what it really means to be prepared for adulthood. We covered the basics, like budgeting, saving, understanding needs vs. wants, and building strong financial habits early, but what stood out most was the students themselves. We were genuinely surprised by how many students are already working or thinking about their first jobs. That made the conversation even more meaningful. Instead of talking in hypotheticals, we connected budgeting and money management directly to their real-life experiences, like paychecks, spending decisions, and saving for things that matter to them. These are the moments where financial education really clicks. https://youtu.be/pFWL3gXsW5I In addition to the classroom visit, Solidarity made a donation to support Maplecrest’s programs. As a thank-you, the students in the MCTV class created a video for us—and they absolutely delivered. Their creativity, attention to detail, and storytelling skills were impressive, and it’s clear they’re building talents that will serve them well in the future. This partnership is a great reminder that preparing students for adulthood goes beyond textbooks. It’s about giving them the tools, confidence, and real-world knowledge they need to succeed, and supporting the programs that help bring those lessons to life. We’re proud to be part of it. Want to bring financial literacy to your school or organization? Let’s connect. Solidarity is always looking for ways to support students, educators, and our community. Email Jessica- jausbrook@solfcu.org. 

What are Buddy Bags? https://youtu.be/lWTH9512lqw At Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, we believe strong communities begin by helping children and families succeed. That is why we are proud to volunteer with the Buddy Bags program through United Way of Howard and Tipton Counties. What are Buddy Bags? Buddy Bags is a weekend food assistance program that helps children in Howard and Tipton Counties facing food insecurity. Each week, volunteers pack bags of kid-friendly meals and snacks, which are discreetly distributed to local students before the weekend. This program helps bridge the gap when school meal programs are unavailable on Saturdays and Sundays. Why Buddy Bags Are Important Many children rely on breakfast and lunch served at school during the week. For some families, weekends can be more difficult. Buddy Bags helps make sure students have access to food when they need it most. According to United Way of Howard and Tipton Counties, hundreds of Buddy Bags are packed weekly to support local children and families. Why Solidarity Volunteers Supporting Buddy Bags aligns perfectly with the credit union universal movement—people helping people. Volunteering allows our team to directly support children in our community while partnering with organizations making a real difference. We are proud to invest our time, energy, and resources into programs that strengthen families across Howard and Tipton counties. Shout Out to Demian A special thank you to Demian for the leadership and dedication shown through Buddy Bags. Community programs succeed because of people willing to step up, organize, and serve others. Demian’s efforts help ensure local kids receive support each and every week. Learn More About Buddy Bags To learn more about the Buddy Bags program or how to help, visit United Way of Howard and Tipton Counties. When communities work together, kids win. Click here to volunteer

Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union is looking for three energetic marketing interns to join our team this summer! This is a hands-on opportunity to gain real experience in events, promotions, and community outreach. Expect a fast-paced schedule with evenings and weekends—but it’s a fun, team-oriented environment where you’ll be right in the middle of the action. Bonus: Each intern will receive a $500 scholarship at the end of the summer. If you’re creative, outgoing, and ready to jump in, we’d love to hear from you!