First Financial of Maryland Federal Credit Union marked two milestones in April: its 60^th anniversary and joining the credit union billion dollar club.

The state's fourth largest credit union had $973 million assets at the end of 2012 before joining the list of 197 other credit unions that have moved into the 10-figure range, according to Callahan & Associates data.

The Lutherville, Md., credit union has achieved those milestones by sound business practices and member service that supports a strong membership base, said Frist Financial FCU's president/CEO, Rob Windsor.

“In today's competitive, financial marketplace, we are especially proud to have reached the $1 billion mark as we celebrate 60 years of service to our membership. Without the leadership of our Board of Directors, a dedicated professional staff and most importantly, a loyal membership, neither of these accomplishments could have been possible,” Windsor said.

First Financial serves more than 58,000 members online and through nine branches and includes as its members employees, students and parents of the Baltimore and Carroll County Public School systems as well as the employees of many private schools, colleges, hospitals and businesses in Baltimore and Carroll counties.

Its public service activities include five student-run high school branches and the donation of more than $1 million to help children through its KidsFirst Fund, which is funded by a portion of member purchases made with a First Financial FCU Visa credit card.