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About Us

Your Financial Guardian Since 1955

Standing watch over your financial well-being—from our roots on Ellsworth Air Force Base to communities across western South Dakota.

Mission Statement

Over the years, our mission has remained the same; to protect and grow the financial future or our member-owners. Just like a Sentinel.

Who We Are

Born as Ellsworth Air Force Base Federal Credit Union in 1955, Sentinel FCU has grown into a trusted financial partner for families, businesses, and communities across South Dakota. Our name reflects our promise: to serve as a steadfast “sentinel” protecting and guiding your financial future.

We remain proudly headquartered on Ellsworth AFB with branches throughout western South Dakota, combining modern digital tools with personal service.

Checking & Savings

Everyday accounts built for simplicity and security.

Loans for Life’s Big Moments

Auto, home, personal, and business loans with competitive rates.

Shared Branching

Access to 5,600+ locations nationwide through CO-OP networks.

Community Commitment

Scholarships, sponsorships, and support through Sentinel Cares.

Sentinel STRONG

Sentinel STRONG is more than a set of values. It is how we show up for our members, our teammates, and our community every day. These core values were shaped with direct input from our employees, reflecting what matters most to the people who live our mission every day. Rooted in our history and focused on what comes next, STRONG guides how we serve, how we make decisions, and how we hold ourselves accountable.

STRONG stands for Serve, Trust, Respect, Ownership, Nimble, and Guardian. Together, these principles define who we are at our best and what members can count on when they choose Sentinel Federal Credit Union.

Our Core Values

SERVE

We aim to go above and beyond to meet the needs of our members, colleagues, and community. We are committed to providing exceptional support, anticipating needs, and delivering solutions that make a positive impact. Our dedication to serve reflects our belief in the value of every individual and our mission to enhance their lives.

TRUST

Trust is the foundation of our relationships with members, employees, and the community. We act with honesty, transparency, and consistency, ensuring that our actions align with our words.

RESPECT

Treat everyone with dignity, listening to and valuing diverse perspectives and backgrounds. We appreciate every individual and their contributions, creating an inclusive environment where every voice is heard.

OWNERSHIP

Take accountability for our actions and decisions, embracing responsibility for our work and striving for excellence. We believe in empowering each other to take initiative and be proactive in serving our members.

NIMBLE

Stay adaptable and responsive to the needs of our members and the market. We prioritize flexibility, openness to change, and continuous learning, ensuring we can quickly adjust to new challenges.

GUARDIAN

We are committed to safeguarding the well-being and security of our members, employees, and organization. With a deep sense of responsibility, we protect our members’ financial health, personal information, and trust—standing watch like a Sentinel.

Timeline: Our History

  • 1955 — Founded on Ellsworth AFB as Ellsworth Air Force Base FCU

  • 1994 — Renamed Sentinel Federal Credit Union

  • 1994 — Rosebud FCU Merged into Sentinel Federal Credit Union

  • 2015 — Expanded via merger with Rapid City Telco FCU (7 branches)

  • 2019 — Enhanced digital tools & expanded scholarships

  • 2024 — Brand refresh, new logo & campaign recognition

  • 2024 — Dorothy Voorhees appointed CEO

  • 2025 — Opened Liberty Branch in Box Elder, honoring Air Force heritage