MANCHESTER — It’s been a year of education for Granite State Credit Union members and affiliated business partners as it launched a free credit report seminar series and one-on-one review with members.

“In challenging financial times, it is more important than ever to have a true understanding of why credit scores matter and how significantly they can impact one’s day-to-day budget,” said Dennis Hebert, vice president of sales and business development. “We developed this informative, interactive session initially for employees of the businesses throughout the state that participate in our free Partners-At-Work Program. By the end of the calendar year we anticipate having met with nearly 400 attendees, many of whom we’ve shown how to improve their scores and ultimately save money.”

“The program has been so successful that we now offer free reports to all of our members, complete with a private one-on-one review. Taking the time to walk members through all those numbers, and providing the education is key to the founding principles of credit unions, ‘people helping people,’” said Hebert.

In addition to the Credit Report 101 seminars, the credit union participates in other educational initiatives that include the student-run branches at Alvirne High School and Nashua High School North, recently highlighted in a NH Chronicle segment on WMUR-TV. GSCU worked closely with the Finance Academy’s of these schools, forming a partnership to develop an integrated curriculum.

The program includes some basic financial fundamentals such as managing a checking account and creating a basic budget, as well as the hands-on experience students realize in running the daily operations of the branches.

With branches in Amherst, Candia, Concord, Manchester, Nashua and Seabrook, for nearly 70 years Granite State Credit Union has served individuals, families and businesses with membership open to anyone living or working within New Hampshire. For more information, visit www.gscu.org or call 800-645-4728.