The Bottom Line
Small business is important to Central Oregon, and to Mid Oregon. Find tips and resources for business, and information about Mid Oregon’s commercial services and business members.
How Mid Oregon’s Growth Benefits You: A Message from Kevin Cole, President and CEO
You may have noticed that “growth” is a frequent word heard around Mid Oregon. Growth is one of our key objectives—showing up in everything from expanding our products and services to developing our team’s skills to providing you with an award-winning member experience.
So, why is growth so important, and how does it positively impact you as a valued member? Think of it this way—the world is constantly changing. To best serve your evolving financial needs, Mid Oregon must also evolve.
How does this translate to your experience as a member?
Staying ahead of the curve
We’re always looking for new and innovative ways to help you achieve your financial goals. This could mean introducing new products and services, expanding our digital services and fraud prevention resources, or increasing our reach into new communities.
Investing in our team
Our dedicated team is the heart of Mid Oregon. By investing in their training and development, we ensure they have the knowledge and expertise needed to provide you with exceptional service that meets your needs.
Better value proposition
As a not-for-profit member cooperative, growth allows us to spread our fixed costs over a larger member base, enabling us to provide more favorable deposit and loan rates.
New and remodeled facilities
In January, we opened our new Old Mill branch to better serve the southwest neighborhoods of Bend and accommodate our growing team. Our Redmond and Prineville branches have also been remodeled to enhance member convenience and experience, with further remodels planned for East Bend and Olney.
As the Chinese Proverb wisely states, “Be not afraid of growing; be afraid only of standing still.”
2025 Security Tips
It’s a new year and more important than ever for individuals to assume responsibility for safeguarding their devices and data. While we all think we know all of this already, anyone can become a victim of cybercrime when the circumstances are right. So, it’s important to stay on top of it and keep in mind some tried-and-true tips:
- Utilize strong, unique passwords or passphrases; and use distinct login IDs for all your online accounts.
- Never share your passwords or PINs with anyone.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication whenever possible.
- Avoid opening suspicious attachments or clicking on dubious links.
- Install and Update Anti-Malware Software.
- Apply software updates and patches promptly.
- Schedule regular data backups.
- Routinely monitor financial activity.
It’s crucial to understand that cybercriminals will persist in attempting to pilfer information as long as it remains a profitable endeavor. While government efforts aim to enhance overall cybersecurity, individuals are still responsible for protecting their data. As our increasing interconnectivity with the digital world exposes us, it is important we all stay alert.
Mid Oregon provides a valuable resource for enhancing your online security. We invite you to explore our Stickley on Security section within the Security and Fraud Center. This platform offers timely articles covering a range of digital security topics, along with informative videos. Additionally, you can subscribe to receive news and alerts via email, ensuring you stay informed with the latest updates to keep your financial accounts secure in the digital landscape.
Read additional blog articles on cyber security and fraud.
As a reminder, Mid Oregon will never initiate a call asking for personal or account information via phone, text, or email.
Article provided by Stickley on Security
Kickstart Your Financial Health
As the new year begins, take this opportunity to conduct a financial checkup. Just as we prioritize our health, we should also invest time in our financial well-being.
A solid financial plan gives you direction and measures your progress. Reviewing last year’s financial goals can help you see what was effective and what needs to change for better outcomes this year.
Below are a few tips to kickstart your financial health:
Start with a Savings Goal: To reach optimum financial health, start by setting a clear savings goal. Mid Oregon’s Saver’s Club Certificate is the perfect tool to help you save for your goals. Don’t forget you can grow your savings by automating deposits into your savings account and consistently contributing—even small amounts can add up over time.
Track your spending habits: This awareness is the first step in making smarter financial choices. Mid Oregon’s Digital Banking offers free Financial Checkups to help you assess your financial situation and make informed decisions.
Know your score: Take advantage of Mid Oregon’s free My Credit Score located in Digital Banking and receive anytime, anywhere access to your credit score, as well as key information from your credit report. Reviewing your credit report and score is essential to your 2025 financial health.
Expand your financial intelligence: Learn about budgeting, investing, and smart debt management. Visit Mid Oregon’s blog at blog.midoregon.com for more informative articles. You can also increase your financial knowledge by attending our educational workshops held throughout the year.
By taking proactive steps to assess and improve your financial health, you can enter the new year feeling confident and empowered. Regardless of your financial situation, your Mid Oregon team is here to help you every step of the way—please stop by, call, or visit us at midoregon.com.