Press Releases

LIFEGUARD ARENA RENAMED AMERICA FIRST CENTER IN HENDERSON

 

America First Credit Union becomes the Official Credit Union of Hockey  in Las Vegas as exclusive partner for VGK and HSK 

HENDERSON (June 27, 2023) – The Foley Entertainment Group announced today, June 27, that the Henderson Silver Knights training facility and community ice rink that houses VGK and HSK hockey programming and other community events year-round in the Water Street District of Henderson has been renamed America First Center in Henderson. 

The new name coincides with a multi-year extension of Foley Entertainment Group’s partnership with America First Credit Union. America First has been a partner of the Vegas Golden Knights since the team’s inaugural season in 2017, and will now become the Official Credit Union of Hockey in Las Vegas – as an exclusive partner for both the Vegas Golden Knights and the Henderson Silver Knights.  

“It’s a terrific day for Foley Entertainment Group and for hockey in Henderson as we join with America First Credit Union and reintroduce our community to America First Center,” said Golden Knights President Kerry Bubolz. “Since opening in late 2020, this community center has been vital in growing the game of hockey in Southern Nevada for fans young and old alike. At the same time, America First Center has proven to be among the premier facilities in the world for training and developing promising athletes with the Henderson Silver Knights, and many of them eventually become Golden Knights.” 

“It is a privilege to welcome our friends at America First Credit Union, who share our passion for community and supporting our youth,” said Bubolz. “We look forward to working together to provide opportunities for hockey players in Henderson and to allow all residents to fuel their passion for the sport.”   

America First Credit Union will be directly involved in supporting youth hockey and community initiatives in Henderson. They become the presenting sponsor of the Vegas Jr. Golden Knights and Henderson Jr. Silver Knights youth hockey programs.  

“We are thrilled to enhance our partnership with the Vegas Golden Knights, Henderson Silver Knights and Foley Entertainment Group,” said Thayne Shaffer, president and CEO of America First Credit Union. “They are more than just amazing teams. They’re an organization passionately committed to serving our communities, which is why our culture at America First Credit Union aligns so well with theirs. We are proud to have our name on the America First Center in Henderson.” 

 In celebration of the new partnership, the Golden Knights, Silver Knights and America First Credit Union are working together to create a charitable program that gives back to the local community. 

For six years, America First has rewarded Clark County teachers with the Game Changers program, which recognizes local educators who have made a positive impact in the classroom and in the lives of their students. As part of this partnership, the Game Changers program will be expanded, and the Golden Knights/America First will now recognize a new teacher every month during the VGK season.  

 America First Credit Union and the Silver Knights will also create a co-branded debit card for America First members with exclusive benefits such as discounted team merchandise, ticket offers and more.  

Originally named Lifeguard Arena, America First Center opened in November 2020 at 222 S. Water Street and is the official practice facility of the Silver Knights. Housing two ice sheets, America First Center is also home to VGK and HSK youth and adult hockey leagues, Learn to Skate programs, hockey watch parties, hockey schools and clinics, the Silver Knights’ official team store at The Livery, and public skating sessions.    

 

ABOUT THE HENDERSON SILVER KNIGHTS 

The Henderson Silver Knights are the American Hockey League affiliate of the Vegas Golden Knights. The Silver Knights are owned in part by Bill Foley and his family and operated by the Foley Entertainment Group. The Silver Knights play their home games at The Dollar Loan Center, a state-of-the-art arena in Henderson, NV. For the latest news and information on the Silver Knights visit hendersonsilverknights.com and follow the team on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

 ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION 

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 119 locations, and is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $18 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members. 

 

#6/27/23# 

America First Credit Union Awarded Nevada Small Business Administration’s 2022 Lender of the Year

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Credit Union is Also the Top SBA Credit Union Lender in the U.S.

 

Members of America First Credit Union’s Nevada Business/Commercial Lending team at the Nevada SBA Awards luncheon on May 4, 2023. AFCU was awarded 2022 Lender of the Year. Pictured: Gina Maceo, Roger Unger, Frank Tavares, and AFCU’s SVP Commercial Lending, Blake Weathers.

 

LAS VEGAS, NV – May 9, 2023 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) was honored at the Nevada Small Business Administration (SBA) Awards luncheon on May 4 at the Westgate Resort in Las Vegas, receiving the award for 2022 Lender of the Year. The annual SBA Awards Luncheon honors small businesses in Nevada, which are vital to our communities as they create new jobs, help drive the economy, and demonstrate dynamic leadership.

In addition to being recognized as the top small business lender in Nevada, AFCU is also listed as the #1 credit union SBA lender in the country for 2022. With these recognitions, AFCU has affirmed its commitment to supporting small businesses in the communities it serves.  “We’re honored to be the number-one SBA lender in Nevada and proud to champion small businesses throughout the Silver State” said Blake Weathers, senior vice president of Commercial Lending at AFCU. “These diverse and dynamic organizations are the backbone of the communities they serve, and it’s such a privilege for America First to be able to partner with them and to help provide the resources they need to thrive and grow.”

AFCU employs a dedicated team of small business lenders to support new start-ups, as well as helping established small businesses grow. As part of that commitment, the credit union strives to be a trusted business partner, lending financial support to small businesses who in turn support their communities.  “We have a world-class business services team, and this recognition is a testament to their expertise and their commitment to helping every one of our business members succeed” said Thayne Shaffer, president and CEO of AFCU.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 119 locations, and is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $18 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Robert Benson
R&R Partners
702.318.4249
robert.benson@rrpartners.com

 

America First Credit Union Holds 84th Annual Meeting.

Riverdale, UT – April 18, 2023 – The 84th Annual Meeting of America First Credit Union (AFCU) was held on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at 3 p.m. MDT. Linda Carver, current chair of the board of directors, welcomed both in-person and virtual attendees and thanked them for their participation. President/CEO of the Utah Credit Union Association, Scott Simpson, was in attendance along with longtime supporter of the credit union and attorney, Bruce Richards, who served as parliamentarian. Other members of the board were introduced and recognized for their many years of dedication and service to the credit union. Thayne Shaffer, President and CEO was also present and recognized, along with members of senior management. Linda also extended a special word of gratitude towards the 3,270 employees for their hard work, loyalty, and dedication to improving service to our members.

A key focal point to each annual meeting is the election of members to serve on the board of directors. In accordance with America First bylaws, three qualified candidates were identified, screened, and elected by acclamation. John Spease, who serves as chair of the Nominations Committee, explained the qualifications, duties and responsibilities required of board members. Mr. Spease announced the election results, and we congratulate Linda Carver, Gil Miller, and James Wendler who will continue to serve as members of the board of directors for America First Credit Union. These volunteers generously give of their time, talents, expertise, and experience for the betterment of the credit union and have the financial well-being of the members in mind.

Remarks from both Linda Carver and Thayne Shaffer are recorded in the 84th Annual Meeting report, and their messages can be viewed online under the Memberline link. Linda closed the meeting with a heartfelt message of sincere appreciation to the members and recognized the turbulent economic times and challenges members face. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and conveyed commitment and dedication to work through hard times with the hopes of a bright future. Meeting adjourned at approximately 3:15 p.m. MDT.

America First Credit Union to Award $50,000 in College Scholarships

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Last Call for Applications for Ten Scholarships Valued at $5,000 Each

SALT LAKE CITY – April 21, 2023 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) is accepting applications for its America First Charitable Foundation Scholarship Program until April 30. In celebration of its fifth year of the scholarship program, AFCU is increasing the ten scholarships to $5,000 each ($1,000 in previous years) for graduating high school seniors and undergraduate students at two- and four-year technical colleges or universities who share a desire to serve others.

The mission of the America First Charitable Foundation is to encourage and administer contributions for educational scholarships. These are awarded based on a student’s commitment to community service as well as leadership and academic potential. They are intended to help America First members pursue post-secondary education and training.

To be eligible, applicants must submit a copy of their current transcript, including their grade point average (GPA), as well as their hours of community service. Applicants must also submit a short essay on how their community service exemplifies the credit union philosophy of people helping people—those who play an active role in giving back to their community, whether through volunteering or other meaningful contributions of time, effort, and care.

All applications will be reviewed by a selection committee consisting of America First employees who represent diversity in business, education and community background. Selection is made without regard to applicant’s race, color, national origin, religious belief, sex, marital status, age, or physical handicap.

The deadline is fast approaching. Applications must be received no later than Sunday, April 30, 2023. The scholarship application can be found and submitted on America First’s website.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union 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 119 locations, and is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

During National Financial Literacy Month, America First Credit Union to Award Ten Classroom Parties to Local Schools

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RIVERDALE, UT – April 21, 2023 – In celebration of National Financial Literacy Month, America First Credit Union (AFCU) is awarding ten (10) classroom parties to lucky local schools. AFCU strongly believes that teaching the next generation about smart money management and good monetary habits can put them on the path to financial success. To nominate a class, simply write a brief essay or recorded video about why financial literacy is important. Essays and videos can be submitted through AFCU’s website no later than April 30, 2023.

When it comes to managing money, education is the foundation to understanding the ins and outs of finance. A report from the National Financial Educators Council shows that 38% of individuals in a recent survey said their lack of financial literacy cost them at least $500 in 2022, including 15% who said it set them back by $10,000 or more—up from about 11% in 2021.

To aid in financial literacy in the community, AFCU offers a free program, FUNDamentals—a customizable, financial literacy program created for kindergarten through 12th grade students and teachers.

“Our goal is to make financial literacy easily accessible to educators and students,” said Thayne Shaffer, president and CEO of America First Credit Union. “FUNDamentals is designed to make learning about finances fun and engaging. By teaching youth about money matters, we can help put them on the path to financial success.”

The program includes various full-lesson plans for K–fifth and sixth–12th grades covering topic areas that address 10 of the most important critical life skills, including spending, saving, getting a loan, and other financial subjects. Each includes engaging animated videos, handouts, presentations, lesson plans, printable certificates, and other useful resources to inform students while keeping them entertained. Lessons are aligned with Utah State Financial Literacy graduation requirement, Common Core Math, and Common Core English Language Arts requirements. Compared to other programs on the market, FUNDamentals is a free, has up-to-date information, and offers specialized content catered to youth.

Teachers can request access to the program a free virtual or an in-person visit from a guest speaker by visiting education.americafirst.com.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 84 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union 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 119 locations, and is the eighth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union Opens New Branch in Spanish Fork, UT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SPANISH FORK, UT – February 17, 2023 – America First Credit Union is celebrating the opening of its newest Utah branch located in Spanish Fork at 1353 N Canyon Creek Pkwy. The branch opening marks the credit union’s 119th branch across Utah, Nevada, Arizona, Idaho and New Mexico and will replace two former AFCU branch locations in Spanish Fork, both of which closed earlier this month. The new branch will service more than ten thousand assigned members and will continue to be an important branch for Utah County.

In honor of the branch opening and its dedication to the Spanish Fork community, the credit union donated $5,000 from the America First Charitable Foundation to two area non-profits – Tabitha’s Way and Nebo School District Foundation. America First has been a long-standing community partner and strong supporter of many Spanish Fork-area causes, including United Way of Utah County’s Days of Caring, Spanish Fork City’s Fiesta Days, school shoe donation programs and other initiatives.

“America First Credit Union has a strong commitment to the rapidly growing Spanish Fork area, celebrating 20 years of service in the community,” said Brad Laing, the branch manager at the new Spanish Fork location. “This consolidation of the two previous branches into one new state-of-the-art branch demonstrates our commitment to the community and our members as our physical and digital footprints continue to grow.”

America First’s new Spanish Fork location opens under the leadership of Laing as branch manager and staff with a combined 130 years of experience. To best serve members in the Spanish Fork community, the branch features enhanced technology for efficient transactions and a full complement of services. Spanish Fork branch hours will be Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

 

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 83 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 119 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.3 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union Partners with University of Arizona to Sponsor Athletics Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – September 23, 2022 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) has inked a multi-year sponsorship agreement with Arizona Athletics and its multimedia rightsholder, Arizona Wildcat Sports Properties. This sponsorship is part of AFCU’s commitment to ingrain itself in the communities it serves by supporting sporting events, arts & entertainment, and various community affairs.

The partnership includes sponsorship of U of A’s football games, both men’s and women’s basketball games, and a collaboration with women’s basketball head coach Adia Barnes. The partnership will also incorporate a “Touchdown for the Hometown” feature to recognize a local charitable organization that has given back to the community.

Together the partners are working on a collaborative Arizona Athletics-branded Visa® Credit card. Once released, AFCU credit union members can proudly select the U of A marks to display on their Visa® credit card.

“I’m honored and excited to partner with America First Credit Union,” said Adia Barnes, Head Coach of Arizona Women’s Basketball.  “I certainly understand the importance of recruiting and developing talented people, rallying your team around a shared vision, and doing what you do with passion. AFCU has built their reputation by adhering to those same principles. We are thrilled to welcome them to the Tucson community and our family of Wildcat Corporate Partners.”

“America First Credit Union loves to support our area’s colleges and universities, particularly when that support goes toward teaching young people about drive, determination, and goodwill,” said Tammy Gallegos, chief marketing and strategic engagement officer at AFCU. “Our sponsorship of Arizona Athletics affirms our commitment to our communities and the stellar athletic leadership at U of A.”

 

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION
Proudly celebrating 83 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union 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 121 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

ABOUT LIVE NATION
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Robert Benson
R&R Partners
702.318.4249
robert.benson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union Presents Concert Series at Ak-Chin Pavilion in Phoenix

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The America First Credit Union Concert Series is yet another benefit for AFCU members

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – September 21, 2022 – America First Credit Union is excited to announce the America First Credit Union Concert Series at Ak-Chin Pavilion in Phoenix. The famous 20,000-capacity amphitheater hosts the hottest acts all throughout the summer and is a fan-favorite place to experience a diverse lineup of performers. In partnership with Live Nation, the concert series brings opportunity for America First members to experience the vast array of arts and entertainment in the Valley.

“At AFCU, we want to be good stewards in the communities we serve. We want to support the things that bring neighbors together and make their lives full and enriched,” says Tammy Gallegos, chief marketing and strategic engagement officer for America First Credit Union. “Our sponsorship of live music at Arizona’s Ak-Chin Pavilion is just one of many ways we strive to enrich the daily experiences of our members and neighbors.”

“I love this concert series because it’s diverse and has range,” said Andy Peikon, Live Nation’s SVP and Head of Venue Sales. “From Alice in Chains to Wu-Tang Clan, there is something for everyone. People come to live music events for unforgettable experiences, and AFCU will be a part of those experiences for many fans across genres.”

In addition to presenting the concert series at Ak-Chin Pavilion, AFCU was able to award members and residents with free concerts tickets and lawn passes for the 2023 AFCU Concert Series through a local promotion to kick off this partnership. More information can be found by visiting Live Nation’s website.

 

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION
Proudly celebrating 83 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union 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 121 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

ABOUT LIVE NATION
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Robert Benson
R&R Partners
702.318.4249
robert.benson@rrpartners.com

AMERICA FIRST FIELD IS NEW NAME FOR REAL SALT LAKE’S HOME

14-Year-Old Sandy Venue Renamed for Original RSL Corporate Sponsor as 83-Year-Old America First Credit Union Expands Claret-and-Cobalt Partnership

SANDY, Utah (Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022) – Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake and inaugural Club partner America First Credit Union – one of RSL’s longest-serving partners – announce that the Club’s Sandy venue will now be known as AMERICA FIRST FIELD, effective immediately.

Real Salt Lake President John Kimball and America First President and CEO Thayne Shaffer were joined for today’s announcement by members of the Club’s loyal fan base; local, regional and national sports figures and business dignitaries, including Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber; RSL Season Ticket holders; and America First Credit Union members.

“Since our inaugural game back in 2005, America First Credit Union has supported Real Salt Lake’s connection with this community, offering our amazing fans numerous in-stadium, grassroots and digital initiatives,” said Real Salt Lake President John Kimball. “This partnership has grown immensely over our 18 seasons, and today’s unveiling of the AMERICA FIRST FIELD signage and nomenclature propels the partnership to an entirely new level. Both RSL and America First Credit Union share many tenets, including an ambitious vision of, commitment to, and innovation for our collective community. The depth, breadth and term of this naming rights deal for AMERICA FIRST FIELD is exemplary of that partnership, and we look forward to further deepening our jointly held roots across not only the great state of Utah but throughout the Intermountain West.”

Since opening the Sandy venue on historic State Street in October 2008, Real Salt Lake has played 269 games, posting a record of 154 wins and 66 draws against just 49 losses, a home winning percentage of nearly 70% and an impressive 1.96 points per game. Two finals have been held at what is now AMERICA FIRST FIELD — the second leg of the 2010-11 CONCACAF Champions League Final as well as the 2013 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final. Nearly 50 clubs and national teams from more than a dozen countries have competed on the AMERICA FIRST FIELD pitch across numerous competitions, including Major League Soccer, National Women’s Soccer League, the MLS All-Star Game, Olympic qualifying, World Cup qualifying, Gold Cup, USL Championship, MLS NEXT Pro invitational and more.

Ancillary events that have taken place at what is now AMERICA FIRST FIELD include Utah High School Activities Association soccer competitions for both boys and girls, American football, rugby, lacrosse, monster truck, motocross and more.

America First Credit Union will continue to welcome guests into the home of Real Salt Lake with signage on the East Side / State Street Plaza, via 9400 South and at the “Spanish Steps” entry point, among others. Additionally, a co-branded America First / RSL debit card and credit card will provide cardholders with exclusive benefits, including discounted tickets, concessions, merchandise and special access to events. Whether buying RSL game tickets, gear at the RSL Team Store, or favorite game-time food and beverages, the new card will be a fast and secure way to make payments at AMERICA FIRST FIELD.

“We’re elated to expand our relationship with Real Salt Lake and Major League Soccer by having our name on this elite sports and entertainment venue, and by offering the exclusive RSL-branded credit card and debit card,” said Thayne Shaffer, America First President and CEO. “This partnership will provide value to our members and help us continue to invest in our community and in organizations that support individuals, families, and businesses as they work toward their personal and financial goals.”

As part of its commitment to its 1.2 million members and the communities it serves, America First partners with numerous non-profit organizations and charitable foundations throughout Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico.

America First Credit Union, which has been affiliated with Real Salt Lake since 2005, will enjoy an expanded relationship with the Club, including digital and traditional branding at AMERICA FIRST FIELD, activations during RSL games, affiliations with the MLS NEXT Pro Real Monarchs in Herriman and other sporting events. The club’s ardent fan base will continue to be known collectively as “The Riot,” providing the passionate heartbeat emanating from the South End each game. The two organizations will also continue to work together on various community outreach initiatives throughout the state of Utah. Additionally, America First Credit Union will continue to be a presenting sponsor of various RSL and Real Monarchs digital properties and to sponsor the RSL youth camps & clinics. America First Credit Union will also team up with RSL on a promotion with small businesses and award a single-season marketing and advertising sponsorship opportunity at the AMERICA FIRST FIELD.

Downloadable AMERICA FIRST FIELD assets: Here

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 83 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union has become one of the largest, most stable, and most progressive credit unions in the country. As Utah’s largest credit union, it has remained a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution. Today, America First has 121 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

ABOUT REAL SALT LAKE

During the first week of January 2022, the RSL compendium of properties was acquired by global sports entrepreneur David Blitzer – who boasts interests in the Philadelphia 76ers (NBA), the New Jersey Devils (NHL), and six European soccer entities, including Crystal Palace (England), FC Augsburg (Germany), Estoril (Portugal), ADO Den Haag (Netherlands), Alcorcón (Spain) and SK Beveren (Belgium). The Blitzer group partners with Utah-based Smith Entertainment Group, led by Ryan Smith, which owns the Utah Jazz (NBA).

Real Salt Lake kicked off its 18th Major League Soccer season this Spring, its first full season under Head Coach Pablo Mastroeni, who led the Utah side for the final 100 days last year, advancing to the 2021 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs for the 11th time in the last 14 years.

The club’s MLS Cup 2009 victory marked the state of Utah’s only major professional championship in nearly 40 years, the title preceding an historic run to the 2010/11 CONCACAF Champions League Final. Buoyed by a passionate base boasting several thousand season ticket holders, RSL has enjoyed a prominent home-field advantage – posting a dominant 154-49-66 (Win-Loss-Draw) record across all competitions at home (1.96 points per game for a 0.695 win pct.) – since building its permanent Rio Tinto Stadium home in Sandy 13 years ago.

In 2015, the club expanded its development pyramid with the addition of Real Monarchs SLC, one of several MLS-operated clubs playing in the USL Championship, the United States’ Division II setup.  The Monarchs boast a pair of titles in its brief history, as the 2017 USL regular-season champions, later winning the USL Final in 2019. For the 2022 season and beyond, Real Monarchs will compete in the newly launched “MLS NEXT Pro” as part of a joint United States and Canada endeavor to complete the professional player pathway by connecting youth academies in MLS NEXT to first teams in Major League Soccer.

The entire RSL development pipeline, which includes the RSL Academy’s U-15 and U-17 teams, calls the expansive Zions Bank Training Center in Herriman, Utah their daily training home. With five world-class grass fields, two indoor turf fields, a residential dormitory, the STEM-based RSL Academy High School and the 5,000-seat Zions Bank Stadium located on a 42-acre campus, Utah’s sporting future is bright.

The RSL Community Foundation was established in 2016, created with the goals of being active in the community year-round, utilizing the popularity and reach of RSL and the Real Monarchs in promoting health and wellness in children throughout the region, engaging supporters of soccer to raise funds and volunteer time for various local initiatives.

For more information on Real Salt Lake, visit www.RSL.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com

America First Credit Union Awards $500,000 Grant to Utah Valley University’s Gary R Herbert Institute for Public Policy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Funding will Support the America First Credit Union Undergraduate Fellowship Program

SALT LAKE CITY – August 22, 2022 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) announced a $500,000 endowment to Utah Valley University (UVU) for the university’s Gary R Herbert Institute for Public Policy. The gift will support the school’s program for Government and High-Impact Internships based in Washington, DC.

UVU says the number one barrier for students applying for internships in DC is the personal cost. Most families cannot afford the significant expenses associated with this type of program, particularly for those living in underserved populations. In addition to their tuition, UVU students participating in the program have additional expenses such as housing and a higher cost of living. The Utah federal delegation pays interns $2,000 a month for more-than-full-time work, while some other internships are unpaid. The need for financial support for the program is evident.

The funding will support the America First Credit Union Undergraduate Fellowship Program. AFCU’s $500,000 gift will allow UVU to send its best and brightest students to Washington, DC, to participate in the life-changing experience.

“Not long ago, Governor Herbert met with our team about the importance of educating tomorrow’s leaders,” said Nicole Cypers, vice president of Governmental Affairs at AFCU. “We talked about the importance of internships in government and how gaining experience in Washington DC can be a life-changing experience for students.  We know this is an expensive opportunity that not everyone can afford. With this in mind, America First Credit Union is thrilled to announce a $500,000 endowment to support UVU’s Herbert Institute interns serving in federal offices on Capitol Hill in Washington DC.”

“With the generous funding from America First Credit Union, interns from the Herbert Institute will gain valuable experience in history and politics as they live and work in our nation’s capital,” said UVU President Dr. Astrid S. Tuminez. “At UVU, we believe that engaged learning is the best way to prepare students for success in work and life. Getting an internship in Washington D.C. without incurring financial burdens is an incredible opportunity for our students. I believe they will be inspired to consider a life and career in public service.”

On average, UVU works to place approximately 70 students per year in government and high-impact internships. 40 student interns work with public policy leaders in Utah, while the remaining 30 spend a semester in Washington, DC. AFCU’s grant will allow the university to send an additional 15 interns each year to high-impact and government internships in DC. High-impact internships have a lasting influence on the lives of UVU students. Merging academic education with the practical experience of an internship currently results in a 10-percent increase in a student’s likelihood of remaining in school and continuing to graduation.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 83 years of servicing members and a long-standing history, America First Credit Union 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 121 locations, and is the seventh largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $17 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1.2 million members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dave Nellis
America First Credit Union
801.827.8606
dcnellis@americafirst.com

Kelsey Richardson
R&R Partners
801.913.9454
kelsey.richardson@rrpartners.com