FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AFCU Collaborates with “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” to Help Deserving Utah Families

Ogden, Utah – Sept. 4, 2019 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) joined forces with HGTV’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” to build two custom homes in Weber County. In addition to making a cash donation to both projects, the Riverdale-based credit union is providing free financial counseling to both families to help them budget for maintenance expenses and plan for other costs that may arise.

“Both the Barobi and Mayo families are extremely deserving of a brand-new home where they can live comfortably without worry,” said John Lund, AFCU president and CEO. “Our goal is to help them be financially successful in the next part of their journey as homeowners.”

The Barobis—a refugee family from the Democratic Republic of Congo—were the first family to get a knock on the door by the “Extreme Makeover” host Jesse Tyler Ferguson. Prior to their new home, the four Barobi siblings, their aunt and cousin all shared a small three-bedroom Ogden apartment with no air conditioning. After Congo rebels killed the Barobi kids’ parents and younger sister, the four siblings escaped to a refugee camp in Uganda where they met up with their aunt and cousin. The family was granted asylum in the United States four years ago where they settled in Utah.

The second family to be surprised by the reality TV series was mother Kelly Mayo, daughter Michelle Smith and granddaughter Haylee Smith. Mayo and her daughter bought the house 17 years ago, however, in 2016, a tornado uprooted two large trees in the backyard with one falling onto the house. Due to water and sewer lines breaking, the house has suffered flooding issues every time laundry is done, or a shower is used.

The Barobi home was revealed on August 18 and the Mayo home was reveled two days later on August 20. The Ogden-area projects will air on HGTV in 2020.

###

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 128 locations, and is the 9th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.2 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,041,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

America First Credit Union Cuts Ribbon on New Brigham City Branch

Brigham City, Utah – August 16, 2019 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday morning for its newest branch in Brigham City.

The branch is located at 450 West 1124 South in Brigham City. The opening of the branch marks AFCU’s 114 branch in Utah and the 128 branch in the U.S.

The leading member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution branch is managed by Michelle Duncan who has been part of the AFCU team for more than 20 years starting as a teller and joining AFCU leadership in 2002. Duncan is also an AFCU Service Star recipient, president of the Brigham City Kiwanis Club, and member of the Women in Business with the Brigham City Chamber. She’s also an active member in AFCU’s Greater Good Program where she dedicates her time to serving children in the community.

“Brigham City is a wonderful community and I’m so grateful to be working with the great members in this area,” said Duncan. “Our goal is to help support our members’ financial wellness and be a partner for life.”

The newly constructed full-service, 3,254-square-foot branch includes 6 teller stations; a 6-lane drive-up, one lane being an ATM; a coin counter; 2 Loan Desks; and 1 remote expert office.

In celebration of the branch opening, weekly giveaways will also be held throughout August in which kids can enter to win a $25 gift cards and gift basket, and adults can enter to win a packaged gift of an Echo Dot and $1000 visa gift card.

America First Credit Union held the official ribbon cutting for its newest branch in Brigham City on Aug 5.

###

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 128 locations, and is the 9th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.2 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,041,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Raiders and America First Credit Union Announce Exclusive Partnership

Las Vegas – August 14, 2019 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) has joined with the Raiders in an expansive partnership, which will include AFCU being named as the Raider’s exclusive credit union and official debit card partner as well as introducing a charitable donation component and a community outreach program to support local small businesses.

“The Raiders and AFCU are both committed to excellence,” said AFCU president and CEO John Lund. “We both are dedicated to engaging, growing, and supporting the community. This collaboration is the start of a long partnership that will strengthen our entire community.”

“The Raiders are excited to partner with America First Credit Union in these activations, particularly those that positively impact our community,” said Raiders President, Marc Badain.

The Raiders partnership includes a program to support small business owners in Las Vegas. More details about the program will be released as the inaugural season in Las Vegas approaches in 2020. The relationship also includes a charitable effort termed First Down for the Community where each Raiders first down during the preseason and regular season results in a donation from the America First Foundation to the Raiders Foundation.

AFCU entered into the exclusive multi-year partnership with the Raiders this month. The partnership will take effect when the Raiders begin playing its home games at Allegiant Stadium for the 2020 National Football League season.

With this partnership, AFCU extends its brand footprint in the area, having already enjoyed a partnership with the Vegas Golden Knights, Las Vegas Aviators at the new Las Vegas Ballpark and the Las Vegas Lights FC.

###

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member- owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 128 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.2 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,041,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

Jennifer López
R&R Partners
702.318.4203
jennifer.lopez@rrpartners.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

5 Tips of Financial Wisdom for National Financial Awareness Day  

Ogden, UT – August 13, 2019 – To promote consumer financial preparedness, America First Credit Union (AFCU) is sharing five fundamentals for financial fitness.

“When it comes to finances, education is one of the most powerful tools,” said AFCU president and CEO, John Lund. “Our goal is to equip people for financially sound practices and empower them to develop, achieve and maintain financial well-being. At America First, we believe that informed members make for stronger communities.”

For National Financial Awareness Day on Aug. 14, take a look at these financial principles:

1. Create and stick to a budget – A well-thought-out budget will help prevent financial stress and increase spending abilities. Budgeting is about confidence, not guilt. Stop comparing yourself to others and be real about your income.
2. Improve your credit score – Know your three-digit number that comes from one of the major consumer reporting agencies, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Members can access a FICO^® score within the AFCU online banking portal. Repair and build your credit by correcting errors and paying debt down.
3. Reduce and manage debt – Start reducing your debt at a steady and deliberate pace. Don’t just move it around. Keep your credit card balances low and pay off your monthly charges. Also, be sure to stay current with all your bills.
4. Save money – Complete a seven-day spending freeze. Just before you begin your freeze, gas up your car and go grocery shopping. Plan a menu for the week and only buy what you’ll need. Your goal is to use what you have for the next seven days.
5. Learn about your finances – Members can take advantage of free financial counseling, free financial education and safe savings programs.

To learn more, watch AFCU’s video series, FUNDamentals, at americafirst.com/learn. Topics include good versus bad spending, loan basics and demystifying mortgages.

Editor’s Note: AFCU representatives are available for interviews to discuss financial preparedness tips. Email Jennifer.Lopez@rrpartners.com to coordinate.

### 

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 128 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.1 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,021,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

Jennifer López
R&R Partners
702.318.4203
jennifer.lopez@rrpartners.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

America First Credit Union Cuts Ribbon on New Rainbow Branch

LAS VEGAS – June 26, 2019 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning for its newest branch in Las Vegas.

The branch is located 1400 South Rainbow Boulevard, near Charleston Boulevard. The opening of the branch marks AFCU’s 15th branch in Southern Nevada (other offices are in Mesquite, Henderson, Overton, Moapa and Caliente) – and its 128th branch is the U.S.

The leading member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution branch is managed by Geri Albores, who has over 24 years of experience in the financial sector.
“Our team is eager to help people address current and future financial needs,” said Albores. “America First Credit Union’s goal is to help support our members’ financial wellness and be a partner for life.”

The branch and property underwent renovations and improvements, which were completed in May of this year. The full-service, 5,197-square-foot branch includes four teller stations; a four-lane drive-up, one lane being an ATM; a coin counter; three loan offices; and two remote expert offices. This branch will help serve more than 107,000 members of the credit union in Clark County.

###

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 128 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.1 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,021,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

America First Credit Union Continues Expansion into Southern Nevada Market

Las Vegas – June 12, 2019 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) opened its 15th branch in Southern Nevada – and its 128th branch is the U.S. – at 1400 South Rainbow Boulevard, centered in the southwest part of the valley.

The full-service, 5,197-square-foot branch includes four teller stations; a four-lane drive-up, one lane being an ATM; a coin counter; three loan offices; and two remote expert offices. This branch will help serve more than 107,000 members of the credit union in Clark County. In addition to the South Rainbow location, AFCU has 14 other branches in Southern Nevada, including one in Mesquite. The credit union, with its headquarters’ location in Ogden, Utah, also plans to an additional location by the end of the year on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

The leading member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution branch will be managed by Geri Albores, who has over 24 years of experience in the financial sector. Albores, who was promoted to market manager in 2013, will have a staff of eight.

Since the branch officially opened on June 3, a steady stream of new and current members has visited to take part in the monthlong celebration, complete with raffle prize giveaways. One lucky Vegas Golden Knights (VGK) fan who visits the branch June 3 to June 29 will win a signed VGK jersey. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for Friday, June 21 at 8 a.m.

“We are delighted with the reception from community,” said Albores. “The Golden Knights grand prize drawing has definitely brought the fans. We are eager for the opportunity to serve new clients and offer a place where members can not only solve any financial problems, but also get advice and learn valuable financial information. At America First Credit Union, we believe that informed members make for stronger communities.”

The new open-space offices provide for a more robust digital experience and open engagement.

The full-service branch will be open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The branch is closed on Sundays.

###

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 128 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.1 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,021,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

America First Credit Union Holding Shred-Your-Stuff Saturday

Riverdale, Utah – (May 29, 2019) – On Saturday, June 1, America First Credit Union (AFCU) will be helping members of the community enhance their personal security during its Shred-Your-Stuff Saturday events.

All community members can bring their financial documents and personal information and personal information they want shredded and AFCU will take care of it at no cost.

The following AFCU locations will be participating from 9 a.m. to noon:

• Clinton Branch – 1724 N 2000 W, Clinton, UT
• Harrisville Branch – 358 North Harrisville Road, Harrisville, UT
• Herriman Branch – 5438 W 13400 South, Herriman, UT
• Orem Branch – 1356 S Main St., Orem, UT
• Providence Macey’s Branch – 50 N Highway 165, Providence, UT

“AFCU’s mission is to help our members and the community achieve financial well-being, and shredding documents is an important part because identity theft could cost you,” said John Lund, President & CEO. “You should shred anything that has personal information like your name, address, phone number, social security number, or bank account information. This might include a few documents you don’t initially think about, including ATM receipts, credit card receipts, bills, and even used airline tickets.”

Individuals are allowed up to 5 boxes of materials at a time for shredding. If they have more, they’re allowed to get back in line for further service.

For additional information on America First Credit Union, visit americafirst.com, or follow America First on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

###

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 127 locations, and is the 9th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.1 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,021,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Student Athletes Across Utah recognized and awarded by America First Credit Union, KJZZ and KMYU Scholarship recipients gathered at annual Outstanding Scholar Athlete Banquet

Riverdale, Utah – (May 3, 2019) – As part of the America First Charitable Foundation, America First Credit Union recently recognized high school student athletes at the Outstanding Scholar Athlete Banquet. The event was held Friday, April 26 at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Throughout the 2018 -“ 2019 high school football season, America First, KJZZ and KMYU stations acknowledged local student athletes each week during the Thursday Night Lights and Friday Night Rivals games. Students were recognized for having a 3.5 GPA or higher, as well as for their outstanding citizenship and school involvement. This year, 22 high school seniors were awarded a $500 scholarship.

For additional information on America First Credit Union, visit  www.americafirst.com, or follow America First on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Photo attached:

Scholarship recipients pose for a photo at the Outstanding Scholar Athlete Banquet in Salt Lake City, Utah.

###

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 128 locations, and is the 9th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.1billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,021,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

America First Credit Union Opens New Branch in West Valley City
Utah’s largest credit union opens new branch on Monday, April 29

Riverdale, Utah – (April 26, 2019) – Next week, Utah’s largest credit union, America First Credit Union, will open their newest branch in West Valley City, Utah. The West Valley branch located at 3253 West 3500 South, West Valley City, Utah 84120, was relocated in order to provide its members with an upgraded experience. The new branch will open their doors on Monday, April 29, 2019.

The new West Valley branch will hold an extended grand opening from Monday, April 29 through Saturday, June 1. Each day throughout April 29^th – May 11^th, America First Credit Union will be giving away a $50 Visa gift card. Members can enter the drawing once per day by stopping into the branch during the two-week period. Additionally, members can also enter a weekly drawing lasting through June 1. The gift basket is valued at more than $100 and includes an America First blanket, a $50 Megaplex gift card and a $50 dinner gift card. There will also be a kids weekly drawing that includes an America First branded piggy bank and a $25 America First Credit Union certificate towards a new youth account.

Ronise Skraznas will serve as service center manager of the new West Valley location. Ronise began her career with America First Credit Union 23 years ago as a teller and quickly moved up the ranks, managing several branches across Utah. Ronise serves on the Woman in Business Board for ChamberWest and graduated from the Leadership Institute program in 2018.

The West Valley branch is located 3253 West 3500 South, West Valley City, Utah 84120. Branch hours are 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For additional information on America First Credit Union and to view the scholarship application, visit www.americafirst.com, or follow America First on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

###

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 128 locations, and is the 9th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $10.6 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,013,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

America First Charitable Foundation to Provide 80 Scholarships in Celebration of 80^th Year
Scholarship applications are now open through May 31, 2019

Riverdale, Utah – (April 23, 2019) – Proudly serving members and communities for 80 years, the America First Charitable Foundation is pleased to announce they are providing 80 $1,000 scholarships to members. America First Credit Union has a strong emphasis on education and financial literacy, and the America First Charitable Foundation is looking for candidates who embody the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.”

In order to be eligible, members must be graduating high school seniors or undergraduate students currently enrolled in a two-year, four-year or technical college or university, and have a passion for serving and helping others. Scholarships will be awarded based on a student’s commitment to community service, as well as leadership and academic potential.

Scholarship submissions are due by May 31, 2019, and recipients will be notified by June 28, 2019. Applicants are required to submit their hours of community service, grade point average and current transcript. They must also submit a short essay on how their community service exemplifies the credit union philosophy of people helping people. A selection committee consisting of America First employees and representing a diverse business, education and community background will evaluate the applications and select the recipients.

For additional information on America First Credit Union and to view the scholarship application, visit www.americafirst.com, or follow America First on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

###

ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 80 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First has become one of the largest, most stable and most progressive credit unions in the country, and has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 128 locations, and is the 9th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $10.6 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,013,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Nicole Cypers
America First Credit Union
801.827.8655
ncypers@americafirst.com