Golden 1 Credit Union: An Overview
Golden 1 Credit Union, headquartered in Sacramento, California, stands as one of the largest credit unions in the United States and is the second largest in California. Established in 1933, Golden 1 offers a wide range of financial services to its members across the state, operating over 70 branches and providing access to more than 30,000 CO-OP ATMs nationwide. The credit union has achieved significant milestones since its inception, reflecting its commitment to serving the financial needs of its members while contributing positively to the communities it serves.
History of Golden 1 Credit Union
The journey of Golden 1 Credit Union began in 1933 when it was founded as the California State Employees’ Credit Union #1. This establishment aimed to provide a safe and accessible financial resource for state employees during a challenging economic period. In 1977, the credit union underwent a significant rebranding and officially adopted the name Golden 1, symbolizing its mission to serve all members in California.
In 2013, Golden 1 launched a college scholarship program that has since distributed approximately $5 million to nearly 600 students across California. This initiative exemplifies Golden 1’s commitment to education and community support, helping young individuals achieve their academic goals.
A landmark moment for Golden 1 came on June 16, 2015, when the credit union acquired naming rights for a new arena located in downtown Sacramento, which replaced the former Sleep Train Arena as the home of the Sacramento Kings. This investment of $120 million over two decades marked one of the largest naming rights deals for a single-tenant NBA arena and was notably the first instance of a credit union securing naming rights for a major sports facility.
Expansion and Community Involvement
In June 2018, Golden 1 achieved another milestone by becoming the first state-chartered credit union in California to receive statewide field of membership. This expansion allowed Golden 1 to serve an even broader demographic and solidified its position as one of the largest credit unions in the nation.
In addition to expanding its membership base, Golden 1 has made significant investments in community development. In 2023, it pledged $10 million to improve equity and economic inclusion in Del Paso Heights over five years. This initiative is part of Golden 1’s broader strategy to address community needs and enhance financial literacy among residents. The opening of its first financial resource center in Del Paso Heights further underscores this commitment. A second center is planned for Madera, California, slated to open in October 2025.
A Commitment to Employee Welfare
Golden 1’s dedication extends beyond its members to include its employees as well. The organization has been recognized consistently for its positive workplace culture and employee satisfaction. In 2025, it was included on American Banker’s “Best Credit Unions to Work For” list for five consecutive years and was also recognized by Forbes and TIME as one of “America’s Best Midsize Employers.” These accolades reflect Golden 1’s efforts to foster an inclusive and supportive work environment that prioritizes employee well-being.
Financial Services Offered by Golden 1
Golden 1 Credit Union provides a comprehensive range of financial services designed to meet diverse member needs. Its offerings include personal banking products such as savings accounts, checking accounts, loans, mortgages, and investment services. The credit union also emphasizes accessibility through various financial resource centers that provide guidance and support tailored to individual circumstances.
Recognizing that financial challenges can arise unexpectedly, Golden 1 has implemented relief programs aimed at assisting members during difficult times. These programs provide vital support for those facing disruptions in income or other financial hardships. One notable service is the payroll assistance loan program, which offers interest-free loans for up to 60 days equivalent to a member’s net federal payroll deposit for one month. Such initiatives highlight Golden 1’s responsive approach in addressing member needs.
A Bright Future Ahead
As of 2026, Golden 1 Credit Union boasts over $21 billion in assets and serves more than 1.1 million members. Under the leadership of President & CEO Donna A. Bland, the organization continues to innovate while remaining deeply committed to its core values of community involvement and member service. Recognition from various organizations, including Forbes’ “America’s Dream Employers” list and rankings from Newsweek and USA Today for customer service excellence further validate Golden 1’s reputation as a leading financial institution.
Conclusion
Golden 1 Credit Union represents more than just a financial institution; it stands as a pillar of support within California communities. From its humble beginnings during the Great Depression to becoming one of the nation’s largest credit unions, Golden 1 has continually adapted and expanded its services while maintaining an unwavering commitment to its members and their communities. With ongoing initiatives aimed at fostering economic inclusion and empowering individuals through education and personalized financial resources, Golden 1 is well-positioned for continued growth and positive impact in the years ahead.
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