HAMPTON -- With three separate institutions conveniently located throughout the region, the Seacoast Credit Union is capable of meeting the various needs of all Seacoast residents.

"We are able to serve every single member of this community; no loan amount is too small," says President and CEO Joanne Nadeau.

The growing credit union boasts two locations — Hampton and Seabrook — which are open to the general public and another which is exclusive to employees and students of Winnacunnet High School.

"A great deal of students are able to open their first checking account through the high school branch," explains Nadeau. "In addition, a few students even get to receive some valuable, hands-on experience by working for the branch."

Although Seacoast Credit Union is a relatively small institution. (with 4,000 members and counting), they offer a full array of financial products and services. Clients can take advantage of their checking and saving accounts, payroll deductions, money orders, traveller's checks, money market accounts, consumer loans and Christmas Clubs.

"Our mortgage and home equity products have been very popular," adds Nadeau.

The credit union provides 24- hour home banking in two different forms: phone and on-line banking. Clients can check their account and make transfers any time of the day with their phone service.

On the Seacoast Credit Union Web site, clients can utilize those same services and peruse timely information on credit union products, services and rates. Customers can even apply for loans on-line.

Of course, there are plenty of advantages to personally visiting Seacoast Credit Union facilities. The credit union employs a friendly and knowledgeable staff who strive to ensure that all transactions are completed quickly and efficiently.

"We're very fortunate to employ an extremely well-seasoned and well-rounded staff here at the credit union," says Nadeau. "They always make the experience very enjoyable for our customers."

Nadeau also notes that individual staff members average 15-20 years of experience in the financial service industry "It's not that often where you find that amount of experience all centrally located in just one room," she says.

As this successful, non-profit organization continues to grow, they have continued to give back as much as possible to the community. Employees of the high school branch are eligible for a $500 scholarship granted each year.

Furthermore, the credit union is a very active supporter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. They recently took part in the Adopt-An-Angel fund raiser where customers could donate two dollars to the foundation and receive a paper angel/Christmas tree ornament.

For every youth account opened, the credit union donates additional funds to the foundation. "It is a great way to teach kids the value of a dollar, while simultaneously helping a child in need achieve his or her dream," says Nadeau.

For more information on the Seacoast Credit Union, visit their Web site at www.seacoastcu.org. The credit union office in Hampton (926-5653) is located at 887 Lafayette Road on the Hampton-North Hampton border; while the Seabrook branch (474-9090) can be found at 68 Lafayette Road directly across from the town hall.