{beginAccordion h2 open}
What’s New
Kim Hocking Retires after 40+ years at KVCCU
Kim Hocking began her 40-year career at Kaskaskia Valley Community Credit Union in 1984, only two years after the credit union was chartered. Originally formed to serve the employees of the Centralia Correctional Center, the credit union has expanded by adding select-employee groups (SEGs) and most recently, opening to the community. “When I started, we were doing $200 loans and now we finance $80,000 trucks,” said Kim. “There was even a time when the credit union operated from my house!”
On Kim’s first day at the credit union, she “had the state examiner teaching me how to do my job. A few years later, the same examiner was chastising me for supporting the credit union by not taking a rightful salary for doing my job.”
People, both credit union employees and members, are part of Kim’s favorite work-related memories. She said, “I have worked with a lot but some stick out more than others, in that really good way.” Kim loved it when members would drop by the office to say hello when they’re in town. “All the people are heart-felt memories I’ll carry with me forever.”
Kim is especially proud of the way the credit union found ways to expand their services so they could assist their members with a wider range of financial needs. “Adding checking accounts was significant for us because members were then able to use us as their PFI,” said Kim.
The one thing Kim will not miss about working is cleaning the office. “I loved almost everything else at the office; this was my least-favorite task,” she said.
Getting involved with the Southern Illinois Chapter (now Southern Burnett Chapter), gave Kim the opportunity to meet and work with people from other credit unions in the area. She held all of the chapter officer positions and also was elected as League Director. As a League Director Kim again was given the opportunity to meet and work with her peers through-out the state.
“The chapter and League was a great way to meet people at other credit unions. We would always help each other, big and small,” said Kim. “Credit unions need to keep their common goal front and center.”
Kim liked to share a story about a member with every new staff member at the credit union. A long-time member “cussed out” Kim for turning down the member for a loan. Despite her patient explanation and reasoning, he was furious and stormed out of the office swearing never to return again. The member did not close his account, and a few years later came in to talk about the improvements made in his financial situation. He applied for another loan which was approved.
“Years later, he and his wife came into the office to thank me for turning him down for the first loan. With tears in their eyes, they explained they could not have gotten a mortgage if they did not listened to what was suggested for their financial wellness. You could see the pride of homeownership in their eyes,” said Kim.
She wants new employees to know they will have tough moments and doing what’s best for the member is always the best course, even when it is difficult at the time.
Kim joins her husband Scot in retirement; he has been retired for 17 years. She is acclimating to her “strange” new lifestyle of not having to be anywhere at any specific time. She plans to travel locally with her camper and spending time with her family including her children, Trevor and Amber, her 6 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Kim also has 10 brothers and sisters who live within 20 miles of each other.
Kim also plans to revitalize her volunteer roles with local organizations including Habitat for Humanity, her church, and credit union. She is also a Fire Department Trustee and Township Supervisor.
Meet Kaskaskia Valley Community Credit Union’s New CEO, Amber Benson
Kaskaskia Valley Community Credit Union (KVCCU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Amber Benson as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective May 1st, 2024.
With a distinguished career spanning 15 years in the financial industry, Amber Benson brings a wealth of experience and leadership to KVCCU. Before joining KVCCU, her career afforded her opportunities in several areas of the financial industry including executive roles in retail leadership, digital innovations, project management, leadership development, mergers, and acquisitions. Additionally, Amber Benson has held leadership roles in compliance, lending, marketing, and training.
Amber Benson succeeds Kim Hocking, who has served as the CEO for more than 40 years. Kim’s legacy resonates beyond balance sheets and profit margins. She embodies a commitment to community, financial empowerment, and member-centric values. Throughout her time at the credit union, she’s navigated through economic storms, championed financial inclusion, and fostered a culture of trust and transparency.
"The success of the credit union has been a team effort," said Kim Hocking.
Kim will continue her career in a part-time capacity and serve on the Board of Directors through the transition. The Board of Directors wants to thank Kim for the time and dedication she has shown throughout her 40 years
“Kim has grown the credit union to over 26MM in assets, 3 locations, and completed three mergers. We wish her well in her transition to semi-retirement and into her full retirement.”- KVCCU Board
Amber Benson holds a Bachelors in Business Administration from McKendree University and a Masters in Education, Policy, and Organizational Leadership from the University of Illinois. She is PHR certified and holds certifications in Change Management and Coaching.
"I am honored and excited to join Kaskaskia Valley Community Credit Union as its new CEO," said Amber Benson. "I am inspired by the credit union’s legacy and commitment to its communities, and I am eager to work alongside our talented team to continue our growth and create value for our members, and employees."
ScoreCard!
If you currently carry our VISA Credit Card, you have been automatically enrolled in our rewards program - ScoreCard. Use your ScoreCard Rewards Card to make those everyday purchases and watch the rewards roll in!
For every qualifying purchase made with your KVCCU VISA credit card, you earn valuable Bonus Points that may be redeemed for outstanding merchandise and exciting travel!
To view all redemption options, please log in online at ScoreCardRewards.com.
KVCCU Newsletter
Valley News Coming Soon!
Archived Newsletters
Member Announcements
Avoid Account Fraud
Remember, KVCCU will never contact you to ask for personal details or account information. Contact us directly if you ever receive such phone calls, emails or letters, and help us guard against fraud. Review our Security Information for more on keeping your data safe.
Community Websites
2024 Holiday Schedule
KVCCU offices will observe the 2024 federal holidays listed below.
{endAccordion}