The Launch Credit Union, a financial institution committed to providing tailored financial solutions and exceptional service to its members, has a rich history rooted in the space industry.

From its humble beginnings as a small credit union for Kennedy Space Center employees to its present-day status as one of the strongest credit unions in the state and the country, Launch Credit Union has remained dedicated to empowering the lives of its members and the communities it serves.

A Modest Beginning in 1963
The year was 1963. A loaf of bread cost 22 cents, a gallon of gas was 29 cents, and the average price of a home was $3,160. John F. Kennedy was President, and the Apollo Program was taking off. The Kennedy Space Center was beginning to fill with employees, and the need for financial services tailored to these individuals was growing.

In response to this need, a small group of Kennedy Space Center employees came together in April 1963 to establish the NASA-MILA Credit Union, which served the financial needs of KSC employees. The credit union started with one small room, a handful of staff, and 61 members.

From Basic Services to Comprehensive Offerings
Back in 1963, the credit union only offered savings accounts, with no computers, debit cards, or ATMs available. The focus was on people helping people with their financial needs. Fast forward to the present day, and Launch Credit Union has grown exponentially, boasting seventeen branches, over 300 employees, and more than 70,000 members.

Sixty years later, the institution, now known as Launch Credit Union, has expanded its reach to serve the financial needs of people and businesses in Brevard, Volusia, and surrounding counties. The credit union now offers a wide range of products and services, including online banking, credit and debit cards, ATMs, personal and business accounts, and much more. Despite the growth and modernization, Launch Credit Union has stayed true to its core mission: people helping people.

A Bright Future Ahead
Joe Mirachi, President of Launch Credit Union, reflects on the institution’s growth, stating, “We’ve come a long way! And at 60 years old, it feels like Launch is just getting started because we are always expanding our products and services.” He also shares that the credit union is close to completing a project aimed at improving its business products and services, including digital banking for business accounts, business credit cards, and treasury services to help local businesses grow and serve their customers better.

Kelly Haskins, VP Marketing for Launch Credit Union, has witnessed the institution’s growth and improvement during her 16-year tenure. She highlights the credit union’s commitment to providing educational opportunities for employees and the community, from school activities teaching youth about money smarts to fraud seminars and After-Hour Financial Power Hours in branches. Haskins states, “We are definitely not the old-fashioned credit union, but we do stay true to our roots.”

The story of Launch Credit Union is one of innovation, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to meeting the needs of its members. Over the past 60 years, the institution has evolved from a small financial cooperative serving Kennedy Space Center employees to a full-service credit union that caters to a diverse membership base across multiple counties.

As Launch Credit Union continues to grow and innovate, it will undoubtedly remain a beacon of financial empowerment for its members and the communities it serves.

60th Anniversary Celebration: Community Event & Fundraiser
To commemorate its 60th anniversary, Launch Credit Union is hosting a community event and fundraiser for Matthew’s Hope, Brevard County, on Saturday, April 29th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The celebration will take place at Launch CU’s Merritt Island Branch, located at 415 Fortenberry Road, Merritt Island, FL 32952. Highlights of the event include:

Ribbon Cutting at 10:30 a.m.
Antique Car Show with Coastal Auto Rally and Show
Food Trucks: BurgerRobsHQ and Food Truck & Cosmos Ice Cream
Face Painting
Live Radio Remote with 98.5 The Beach
Drawing for a 60-inch TV, Mini Jukebox, and more!

60th Anniversary Specials and Offers
In addition to the community event, Launch Credit Union is offering some fantastic specials and offers to celebrate its 60th anniversary:

.60% off APR on an Auto/Boat/RV Loan Rate*
.60% off APR on a Personal Loan Rate*
.60% off the qualified APR on any Fixed Rate Home Equity Line of Credit*
$60 for any new member in April who opens a new Savings and Checking Account*

Learn more about Launch Credit Union’s 60th Anniversary here