News/Updates

July 1, 2026

Systems Merger Complete: A New Chapter for WFCU

Wichita Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the completion of its systems merger with Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union, marking an important milestone in our continued commitment to serving members across our community.

As of July 1, 2026, the systems transition is complete. This milestone brings our members together on one platform and supports our ongoing efforts to provide a consistent, convenient banking experience.

The merger represents more than a systems change. It is another step in bringing people and resources together to create opportunities for stronger service, greater convenience and continued growth. We are excited about what this means for our members and the future of Wichita Federal Credit Union.

Thank you to our members and employees for helping make this transition possible. We look forward to this next chapter and to continuing to provide banking that fits the needs of our members. 

June 6, 2026

WFCU Celebrates 2026 Dana Winkler Scholarship Recipients

Wichita Federal Credit Union is proud to celebrate the eight recipients of the 2026 Dana Winkler Scholarship, each of whom received a $2,000 award to support their educational journey.

The scholarship recipients were recognized at an awards dinner on June 6, surrounded by the people who have encouraged and supported them along the way. WFCU board members, including many who serve on the scholarship committee, WFCU staff, and members of the Winkler family were in attendance. Dana Winkler, his wife and son joined the celebration, along with the scholarship recipients and their families and friends.

This year's recipients are:

  • Aaron Madrigal Jr.

  • Alayna Kempf

  • Brianna Rodriguez

  • Chelsey Grace Kallman

  • James Madden

  • Kaylen Cox

  • Raegen West

  • Sophie McGown


Each recipient received a $2,000 scholarship to help support the cost of continuing their education. At WFCU, we believe that financial well-being is about more than managing money today. It's also about creating opportunities for a brighter tomorrow.

The Dana Winkler Scholarship reflects our commitment to supporting the educational goals of our members and investing in the future of our community. We are honored to recognize these students for their hard work and dedication, and we look forward to seeing all they accomplish.

Congratulations to Aaron, Alayna, Brianna, Chelsey, James, Kaylen, Raegen and Sophie! We wish each of you continued success as you pursue your goals and build your future.

October 1, 2025
On October 1, 2025, Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union and Wichita Federal Credit Union officially merged to form a single entity, now known as Wichita Federal Credit Union. We extend a warm welcome to all our new members!

As we work on integrating our systems this summer, we remain committed to serving the financial needs of all members at McConnell Air Force Base. Our staff is here to assist you with a variety of services, including loans, Visa credit cards, new accounts, and more.

For more information, please visit our merger member resource page via the link below. 

September 8, 2025
On September 8, 2025, Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union members participated in a Special Membership Meeting to vote on the proposed merger with Wichita Federal Credit Union.

We are excited to announce that the majority voted in favor of the merger. We are transitioning Freedom 1st  Federal Credit Union members to Wichita Federal Credit Union on October 1, 2025, the official merger date. WELCOME, FREEDOM 1st  MEMBERS!

We look forward to serving you and enhancing your banking experience.

April 15, 2025
We are excited to share the news of our field of membership expansion. This significant development will help shape the future of our credit union and the communities we serve. In addition to Sedgwick County, we now serve Butler, Cowley, Harvey, and Sumner Counties.  The new Field of Membership is as follows:

If you live, work, worship, attend school, or have a business or other legal entity in Butler, Cowley, Harvey, Sedgwick, or Sumner Counties, you and your immediate family or household are eligible for membership.
This expansion marks a pivotal moment for WFCU; increasing our footprint to five counties will open doors to new opportunities for growth, outreach, and impact.
This will enhance WFCU as a business and deepen our roots within our current and new communities.

Expanding our field of membership is crucial for several reasons.

  • It allows our Field of Membership to match Freedom 1st Federal Credit Unions', as WFCU is in the process of a merger with Freedom 1st. (See merger details below.)

  • It allows us to broaden our member base, attracting individuals who may not have had access to our (or any) financial services before. This increases our revenue streams as a business and fosters a more diverse and inclusive membership.

  • As our credit union grows, so will our ability to offer competitive rates, better services, and a wider range of financial products to meet the needs of our members.

  • A larger membership base gives us greater leverage and influence within the community. It strengthens our position to advocate for the interests of our members, negotiate better partnerships, and collaborate with local businesses and organizations to promote initiatives that we truly support and care for.

April 06, 2026

A More Member-Focused Way to Bank

Choosing where to keep your money is an important decision. For many people in Wichita, a credit union offers a more personal and community-focused alternative to a traditional bank. At Wichita Federal Credit Union, we are a not-for-profit financial cooperative, which means our members are also owners. That structure helps keep the focus on serving people, not outside shareholders.
 

Local Service Makes a Difference

One of the biggest reasons people choose a credit union over a bank in Wichita is the local connection. When you work with a local financial institution, you can expect service that feels more personal and decisions that better reflect the needs of the community. Wichita Federal Credit Union serves the Wichita area through multiple locations, making it easier for members to access support close to home.
 

Credit Unions Are Built Around Member Value

Because credit unions operate differently than banks, the experience often feels different from the start. We focus on helping our members reach their financial goals with practical products and guidance. Our website highlights services across banking, borrowing, investing, and other financial tools designed to support everyday needs in Wichita.
 

Benefits Many Wichita Members Appreciate

When comparing a credit union vs. a bank, people often look for value, convenience, and trust. Common reasons to choose a credit union include:

  • More personalized service
  • A stronger community connection
  • Member-focused financial guidance
  • Convenient access to local branches
  • A not-for-profit structure built around serving members
 

These advantages can make a real difference when you want a banking relationship that feels more supportive and less transactional.
 

A Strong Community-Based Approach

A credit union is not just a place to open an account. It is a financial partner connected to the people it serves. Wichita Federal Credit Union describes itself as member-owned and rooted in the local community, including people who live, work, and worship here. That kind of local commitment matters when you want service that understands Wichita and the people who call it home.
 

Choosing What Fits Your Financial Life

The right choice depends on what matters most to you. If you want a financial institution that emphasizes member ownership, local service, and community values, a credit union may be the better fit over a traditional bank. For many individuals and families in Wichita, that difference is exactly why joining a credit union makes sense.
 

Contact Wichita Federal Credit Union in Wichita, KS by calling 316.941.0600 or visit us at 9835 E. 21st St. N., Wichita, KS 67206. 

October 1, 2025

On October 1, 2025, Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union and Wichita Federal Credit Union officially merged to form a single entity, now known as Wichita Federal Credit Union. We extend a warm welcome to all our new members!

As we work on integrating our systems this summer, we remain committed to serving the financial needs of all members at McConnell Air Force Base. Our staff is here to assist you with a variety of services, including loans, Visa credit cards, new accounts, and more.

For more information, please visit our merger member resource page via the link below. 

 

September 8, 2025

On September 8, 2025, Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union members participated in a Special Membership Meeting to vote on the proposed merger with Wichita Federal Credit Union.

We are excited to announce that the majority voted in favor of the merger. We are transitioning Freedom 1st  Federal Credit Union members to Wichita Federal Credit Union on October 1, 2025, the official merger date. WELCOME, FREEDOM 1st  MEMBERS!

We look forward to serving you and enhancing your banking experience.

April 4. 2025

Wichita Federal Credit Union and Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union Announce Intent to Merge

Wichita, Kansas - (April 4th, 2025) – Wichita Federal Credit Union (WFCU) and Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union (Freedom 1st) announced today that they are seeking regulatory approval of their intent to merge. The merger would result in an organization with more than $254 million in combined assets, serving over 17,000 members.

Currently, WFCU operates three branches in Wichita-WFCU East at 21st and Webb, WFCU West at 13th and West, and City Hall, serving City of Wichita employees and limited access to the general public. Freedom 1st operates one branch on McConnell Air Force Base with limited access to the general public.

"Our members will benefit from combining our two strong organizations," said Ashley Bautista, President & CEO of WFCU. "Our members will enjoy expanded products and services while retaining a branch location on McConnell Air Force Base. Both credit unions have a strong and proven history of supporting members' financial needs while being committed to our employees and the communities we serve."

At the time of the legal merger, the two credit unions will operate under the unified brand name of Wichita Federal Credit Union. Ashley Bautista, President & CEO of WFCU, will lead the newly combined organization. Ronda Posch, current President & CEO of Freedom 1st plans to retire after 36 years of service.

From a member perspective, there will be minimal impact at the legal merger date. Additionally, there will be a combined staff of both credit unions and no job losses. Both organizations will continue to serve members as usual as they prepare to integrate their systems fully by late 2025/early 2026.

About Wichita Federal Credit Union (WFCU) - WFCU was chartered in May 1940 to serve the municipal employees of the City of Wichita.  Field of membership includes persons who live, work, worship, or attend school in and businesses and other legal entities located in Butler, Cowley, Harvey, Sedgwick, or Sumner Counties, Kansas.

About Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union (Freedom 1st)–Freedom 1st was chartered in April 1957 as McConnell AFB FCU. In 1988, the name was changed to Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union. Field of membership includes persons who live, work, worship, or attend school in and businesses and other legal entities located in Butler, Cowley, Harvey, Sedgwick, or Sumner Counties, Kansas.

More information, including FAQs regarding the merger, can be found on WFCU and Freedom 1st websites: (wichitafcu.com and freedom1stfcu.org).

See FAQ's

March 13, 2023

Please be aware of scammers who contact you by phone, email, or text. WFCU will NEVER contact you out of the blue and ask for your personal account information. If you receive a message or call from someone claiming to be with WFCU, and you feel that it is suspicious, do not reply, click any links, or if it's a call, hang up and dial 316.941.0600. Click on the image below for more information.

 
April 15, 2025

We are excited to share the news of our field of membership expansion. This significant development will help shape the future of our credit union and the communities we serve. In addition to Sedgwick County, we now serve Butler, Cowley, Harvey, and Sumner Counties.  The new Field of Membership is as follows:

If you live, work, worship, attend school, or have a business or other legal entity in Butler, Cowley, Harvey, Sedgwick, or Sumner Counties, you and your immediate family or household are eligible for membership.
This expansion marks a pivotal moment for WFCU; increasing our footprint to five counties will open doors to new opportunities for growth, outreach, and impact.
This will enhance WFCU as a business and deepen our roots within our current and new communities.

Expanding our field of membership is crucial for several reasons.

  • It allows our Field of Membership to match Freedom 1st Federal Credit Unions', as WFCU is in the process of a merger with Freedom 1st. (See merger details below.)

  • It allows us to broaden our member base, attracting individuals who may not have had access to our (or any) financial services before. This increases our revenue streams as a business and fosters a more diverse and inclusive membership.

  • As our credit union grows, so will our ability to offer competitive rates, better services, and a wider range of financial products to meet the needs of our members.

  • A larger membership base gives us greater leverage and influence within the community. It strengthens our position to advocate for the interests of our members, negotiate better partnerships, and collaborate with local businesses and organizations to promote initiatives that we truly support and care for.
     

For additional information, please see FAQ's on this page:

About Us

April 4. 2025

Wichita Federal Credit Union and Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union Announce Intent to Merge

Wichita, Kansas - (April 4th, 2025) – Wichita Federal Credit Union (WFCU) and Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union (Freedom 1st) announced today that they are seeking regulatory approval of their intent to merge. The merger would result in an organization with more than $254 million in combined assets, serving over 17,000 members.

Currently, WFCU operates three branches in Wichita-WFCU East at 21st and Webb, WFCU West at 13th and West, and City Hall, serving City of Wichita employees and limited access to the general public. Freedom 1st operates one branch on McConnell Air Force Base with limited access to the general public.

"Our members will benefit from combining our two strong organizations," said Ashley Bautista, President & CEO of WFCU. "Our members will enjoy expanded products and services while retaining a branch location on McConnell Air Force Base. Both credit unions have a strong and proven history of supporting members' financial needs while being committed to our employees and the communities we serve."

At the time of the legal merger, the two credit unions will operate under the unified brand name of Wichita Federal Credit Union. Ashley Bautista, President & CEO of WFCU, will lead the newly combined organization. Ronda Posch, current President & CEO of Freedom 1st plans to retire after 36 years of service.

From a member perspective, there will be minimal impact at the legal merger date. Additionally, there will be a combined staff of both credit unions and no job losses. Both organizations will continue to serve members as usual as they prepare to integrate their systems fully by late 2025/early 2026.

About Wichita Federal Credit Union (WFCU) - WFCU was chartered in May 1940 to serve the municipal employees of the City of Wichita.  Field of membership includes persons who live, work, worship, or attend school in and businesses and other legal entities located in Butler, Cowley, Harvey, Sedgwick, or Sumner Counties, Kansas.

About Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union (Freedom 1st)–Freedom 1st was chartered in April 1957 as McConnell AFB FCU. In 1988, the name was changed to Freedom 1st Federal Credit Union. Field of membership includes persons who live, work, worship, or attend school in and businesses and other legal entities located in Butler, Cowley, Harvey, Sedgwick, or Sumner Counties, Kansas.

More information, including FAQs regarding the merger, can be found on WFCU and Freedom 1st websites: (wichitafcu.com and freedom1stfcu.org).

See FAQ's

March 13, 2023

Please be aware of scammers who contact you by phone, email, or text. WFCU will NEVER contact you out of the blue and ask for your personal account information. If you receive a message or call from someone claiming to be with WFCU, and you feel that it is suspicious, do not reply, click any links, or if it's a call, hang up and dial 316.941.0600. Click on the image below for more information.