On Tuesday, members of the board and staff at Embarrass-Vermillion Federal Credit Union gathered for the official groundbreaking ceremony of their new building. Despite the rain, everyone in attendance was in high spirits. The sun peeked out briefly for the ground-breakers to be photographed, then the rain resumed.
Jim Kramar, President and CEO of EVFCU since 2011, addressed the small gathering: “Today is more than just a construction project, it’s the continuation of a story that began over 80 years ago. In 1941, Embarrass-Vermillion Federal Credit Union was founded by just seven individuals who believed in something simple but powerful; that people in this community deserved access to fair, affordable financial services.
“Each of them contributed just $5 but what they built was opportunity. Over the decades, that small beginning grew, expanding our membership, expanding our reach across northern St. Louis County, and serving generation after generation of families, businesses, and neighbors.
“Today we serve thousands of members, but our purpose hasn’t changed. We are still here to build relationships, strengthen our communities, and provide trusted financial guidance close to home. That’s what makes today so meaningful.
“This ground-breaking represents an investment in our future, ensuring that we continue to meet our members where they are, with modern facilities, enhanced services, and a space that reflects the strength of this community. I also want to recognize the outstanding partners helping to bring this vision to life: Kraus-Anderson and DSGW Architecture, whose expertise and commitment to community- centered design will help us create something we can all be proud of. To our members, our board, our team, and our community: thank you. This building may be new, but the mission behind it remains the same: people helping people today and for generations to come. This is where it all started… this is where it all started, and we’re happy to start new.”
Kramar started as a teller at EVFCU, and said, “I love my job- I don’t know everything about everything, but it’s the people you have in the right places.” Refreshments were served in what is soon to be the old building, which is destined for demolition. Foundation issues, lack of insulated windows, and the additions made to the building over the years contributed to a need for a new building.
Construction officially started on Monday, and is projected to be finished by October. The new building is 1,200 square feet and replaces a building that is over 50 years old and will be demolished.
