YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - 717 Credit Union welcomed over 1,000 Youngstown City Schools Credit Union (YCSCU) members to 717 Credit Union after a merger between the two credit unions was finalized on Friday.

These members will join nearly 100,000 individuals in the Mahoning Valley who are already members of 717.

According to a press release, YCSCU found operating in a competitive marketplace increasingly difficult due to the cost and complexity of technology and regulatory compliance.

That's why YCSCU's board of directors decided to seek a strong merger partner, and chose 717 Credit Union.

"This partnership is powered by our mutual desire to expand service to our members and a heartfelt commitment to financial inclusion. This merger reaffirms our commitment to Youngstown and to the education community. It is another big step as 717 continues to deepen its ties to the Youngstown area," said 717 President and CEO John Demmler.

Thanks to this merger, all YCSCU members will have access to expanded products and services, the latest digital banking technology and premier member services at 13 branch locations including a call center, a mobile app and over 30 ATMs and PTMs. 

Due to 717's current branch network and limited access to the YCSCU office inside the Youngstown Early College High School, that office is now closed.