What You’ll Learn
- Find out how Salal has grown from nine members in 1948 into a modern, member-owned financial cooperative rooted in community impact, innovative banking solutions, and people-first service.
At Salal Credit Union, we believe in the power of people coming together to create something bigger than themselves.
Since our founding in 1948, through good times and days of challenge, we’ve stayed true to that belief. Salal began with a simple act of collaboration: nine healthcare workers in Seattle pooled $45 to help each other access fair, affordable banking services. That small, powerful decision created what was first called Group Health Credit Union—a member-owned financial cooperative built to serve people, not prioritize profit. 77 years later, that same grassroots spirit still guides us.
Adapting to Better Serve Our Members
Since the beginning, we’ve grown with the people and communities we serve—adapting to meet new needs, new industries, and new technology. Over the years we’ve helped many thousands of members finance first homes, start businesses, bounce back from hard times, save for retirement, and plan for brighter futures.
As our membership expanded beyond the healthcare industry, we honored our roots when we changed our name to Salal—an evergreen plant used by the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest, both for nourishment and its healing qualities.
We’ve also taken on challenges that others avoid—from partnering with contractors to provide affordable financing for home improvements to expanding access to financial services as a pioneer in cannabis industry banking.
Member-Driven. Community-Focused.
As a not-for-profit, member-owned credit union, we’re here to serve people—not shareholder profits. Our all-volunteer board of directors is made up entirely of Salal members, helping us stay true to the values we were built on. Salal’s earnings go back to our members and the neighborhoods they call home. That shows up in the form of fewer fees, better rates, community giving, and expert guidance from a credit union team that is invested in your success.
We offer our members a full suite of banking services—from checking and savings accounts, to home and auto loans, to mobile-first budgeting tools and digital payments. Basically, all the big bank tools with none of the big bank vibes.
We’re also committed to giving back to the communities we serve. Since 2017, we’ve given over $2.5 million in charitable donations in support of everything from community healthcare access to expanding opportunity for LGBTQ+ small businesses and entrepreneurs.
There’s Power in Together
From those nine healthcare workers to the 50,000+ members we serve today, one thing has always been true: when people work together, we can accomplish big things.
Learn more about Salal and the meaning behind our name.
Learn more about how Salal can help you build your financial well-being.
