Local credit union celebrates new location in Columbus

COLUMBUS, Neb.-- A credit union celebrated opening its doors at a new location in Columbus.

'Dale Employees Federal Credit Union' technically had its doors open at its new location since September of last year but on Thursday, the branch celebrated the opening with all of its employees and members.

Mary Henke, who is the president of the credit union, talked about how its been since the doors were opened late last year up until now.

"It has been a rollercoaster. We have been really getting ready for the community," Henke added.

The credit union had a previous location in Columbus but wanted to move to a bigger location for a better future. So far, it seems to be working.

"The traffic has really picked up. With our old location, we were downtown and nobody realized where we were. So, we've got a lot of people coming through. Some curiosity seekers of course but we always welcome those because that's a new chance to sign a new member," said Rich Aerni, who is the vice-chairmen at the credit union.

With the location in Columbus, there's also a smaller office in Norfolk as well.

One of the employees who works at that office, Brandi Watson, is optimistic that a bigger location could be brought to Norfolk in the future.

"We're definitely looking into other locations, trying to branch out, trying to become a little more involved with the community, " Watson said. We're hoping to get in touch with the chamber, get in touch with them. Look for different options to try and grow in the Norfolk location," added Watson.

Overall, the credit union is hopeful and excited for its future in Nebraska.

“It's always great to look into the future and stuff but it's what we do to get there. So, we're really looking forward to meeting new people, working hard, and really getting ourselves out there in the communities," Henke said.