PHILADELPHIA, PA — Ardent Credit Union has shed its geographic boundaries, adopting a new charter that allows consumers nationwide to join the Philadelphia-based financial institution, a move leaders say positions the credit union for long-term growth without sacrificing its community-driven roots.
Ardent announced it has transitioned to a Multiple Common Bond Charter, eliminating restrictions that previously limited membership to people who lived, worked, worshiped, volunteered, or studied in five Southeastern Pennsylvania counties: Philadelphia, Montgomery, Delaware, Bucks, and Chester.
With the change, eligible consumers across the United States can now become Ardent members and access the credit union’s loan products, mortgages, and savings options.
“This is a transformative moment for Ardent Credit Union,” President and CEO Rob Werner said. “For nearly five decades, we’ve been committed to delivering smart, innovative banking with a personal touch. This change allows us to extend that same level of care and expertise to more people who are looking for a financial partner that truly puts their needs first.”
Under the new charter, Ardent offers three primary pathways to membership. Individuals anywhere in the country can qualify by enrolling in the American Consumer Council, a national nonprofit focused on consumer advocacy and financial literacy. Ardent said it will facilitate enrollment in the organization at no cost during the account-opening process.
Membership is also available through immediate family or household relationships with existing eligible members, as well as through Ardent’s Select Employee Group partners, which include organizations that offer credit union membership as an employee benefit.
Ardent officials said the charter change formalizes an existing national footprint, noting that members already reside in all 50 states. The credit union emphasized that the expansion is designed to be deliberate, preserving the service model and local focus that have defined the organization for decades.
“This charter change allows us to say ‘yes’ to more people, all while maintaining the same care and level of service our members expect,” Werner said.
The credit union said both current and future members will continue to have access to Ardent’s signature programs, including its Auto Buying Concierge service, personalized First Home Concierge program, youth-focused banking and financial education accounts, a renovation loan based on post-improvement home value, and promotional savings products tied to local sports outcomes.
Founded nearly 50 years ago, Ardent Credit Union is headquartered in Philadelphia and has positioned the charter expansion as a strategic step to broaden its reach while retaining the personalized approach that has fueled its growth.
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