Vicinity Credit Union Archives - Vicinity Credit Union

Make the Most of Summer Without Breaking the Bank

Young woman resting in comfortable hammock at green garden

Summer in Chicagoland is something special – block parties, backyard BBQs, lake trips, and time with the people who matter most. But all that fun can add up fast if you’re not careful. At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re here to help local families enjoy every sun-filled moment without worrying about overspending. Here’s how to plan a memorable summer that’s also financially smart. Backyard Fun Without the Big Expense You don’t need to leave town to feel like you’re on vacation. Spruce up your backyard with budget-friendly updates – think string lights, secondhand patio furniture, or a kid-friendly sprinkler setup. Check local community groups or neighborhood swaps before heading to big box stores. A cozy backyard setup brings the fun home. Shop Smart and Skip the Guilt Impulse buys love summer as much as we do. Avoid them by sticking to a list, setting a budget, and unsubscribing from “sale alert” emails that tempt you to spend on things you don’t really need. Take your time, price compare and keep your spending in line with your goals. Budget-Friendly Family Fashion Kids grow fast, and summer styles change quick – but that doesn’t mean you need to spend big. Look to consignment stores, online marketplaces, or even neighborhood swaps for gently used clothes and gear. It’s wallet-friendly, eco-friendly, and often filled with gems you can’t find in stores. Plan Ahead for Stress-Free Summer Fun Grab a calendar and map out your family’s summer plans – trips, camps, gear, outings. From there, set a realistic budget and look for early-bird deals or off-peak pricing. When you plan ahead, you get more time to enjoy the season and fewer surprises on your credit card statement. Vicinity Credit Union Is With You Every Step Whether you’re saving up for summer adventures or just trying to get more from your money, we’re here to support you. Our team is ready with friendly guidance, budgeting tools, and personalized options to help you stay on track. Let’s make this summer full of fun, family, and financial peace of mind – together.

Fresh DIY Ideas That Help Your Budget Bloom

furniture renovation, diy and home improvement concept - happy smiling woman sanding old wooden table with sponge

Spring in Chicago is a time to refresh and maybe even roll up your sleeves and try something new. At Vicinity Credit Union, we believe in helping you make smart financial moves, especially when they can start right at home. From home projects to hobby-based side hustles, here are some family-friendly ways to save money and maybe even bring in a little extra. Turn Hobbies Into Income Got a knack for fixing things or creating something useful? Consider light woodworking projects, small home repairs, or restoring secondhand finds. These can turn into part-time income streams, especially when sold locally or online. It’s a great way to involve the family too – teach the kids while you build something together. Upcycle Gently-Used Gear Don’t toss out old boots, jackets, or gear just yet. A little patching or polishing can make them look new again. Whether you keep them or flip them at a resale shop, you’re saving money and reducing waste. It’s a small, smart step toward sustainable living. Breathe New Life into Old Furniture That old nightstand or wobbly chair? With a little sanding and paint, it could be your next weekend win. Refurbishing furniture is a fun and low-cost way to refresh your home or earn extra cash. List it on Facebook Marketplace or gift it to a neighbor – it’s a project with heart either way. Grow Savings Right from the Garden You don’t need acres to start gardening. Herbs on the windowsill, tomatoes on the patio, or a backyard veggie patch can all lower your grocery bills and feed your family fresh, healthy food. Got extras? Share with neighbors or local swap groups. It’s a great way to build community. DIY Energy Fixes for a Greener Home Ready to cut utility costs before summer? Here are a few ideas: Some fixes you can do yourself, others might require a pro. Either way, the savings are real. Build More Than Projects – Build Possibilities At Vicinity Credit Union, we’re all about helping local families thrive. Whether you’re trying a new side gig, refreshing your home, or setting a financial goal, we’re here to help make it happen. Have a DIY project in mind? Let’s build a budget that supports your goals.

Tag: Vicinity Credit Union

Make the Most of Summer Without Breaking the Bank

Fresh DIY Ideas That Help Your Budget Bloom

You are now leaving Vicinity Credit Union