Score big with the new debit card from the official credit union of Utah Athletics

Salt Lake City – Aug. 22, 2023 – University of Utah Athletics fans have a new way to support their favorite team with the help of America First Credit Union. As the official credit union of the University of Utah Athletics, America First announced the official Utah Athletics debit card. The card features the Utah logo on a sleek white background with a visible crimson core, allowing cardholders to show off their Utah pride with every purchase.

“We’re excited to give our members another way to show their Ute pride wherever they go with the exclusive University of Utah Athletics debit card,” said Tammy Gallegos, Chief Marketing and Strategic Engagement Officer at America First. “We love being part of this amazing community of fans and appreciate our partners at the University of Utah Athletics for helping us provide a fun way to connect with our members, fans and community.”

The debit card, available for all America First Credit Union members, allows cardholders access to Rice-Eccles Stadium 30 minutes before doors open to the public — two hours before kickoff time — to catch an early glimpse of pregame warmups. Cardholders will also get the opportunity to access exclusive ticket deals and pricing for many other University of Utah sporting events.

“We’re thrilled that America First Credit Union has introduced the Utah Athletics debit card,” said Mark Harlan, Director of Athletics. “This is an exciting new opportunity for our passionate fans to show their great pride in Utah Athletics, and we’re grateful for our tremendous partners at AFCU for creating new ways to connect with our fans.”

Packed with features, benefits, and discounts, the Utah Athletics debit card is available with both America First’s Classic and Premium Checking accounts. Its features and benefits include Card Guard, worldwide access and more.

To learn more or get the exclusive Utah Athletics debit card, visitamericafirst.com/uofu.

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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

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

Utah-based Elite Turf Supply receives a $200K sponsorship with the Utah Jazz

SALT LAKE CITY – Aug 18, 2023 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) and the Utah Jazz are excited to announce today Elite Turf Supply as the grand prize winner of its annual “Small Business Spotlight” contest. The Utah-based artificial turf supplier was announced as the contest winner during a live finals event at Delta Center. As the winner, America First Credit Union will provide Elite Turf Supply with a single-season sponsorship agreement with the Utah Jazz valued at approximately $200,000. The winner will also receive arena signage, logo design assistance, media coverage, and the opportunity to participate in business and marketing strategy meetings with Utah Jazz and AFCU executives.

“I don’t know that I’ve ever been more excited,” said Taylor Brown, co-owner of Elite Turf Supply. “With this sponsorship, we can do more of what we do — helping people learn the benefits of artificial turf, conserve water, and even start their own small businesses. It’s all about the community, and we’re grateful to the Utah Jazz and America First.”

Elite Turf Supply started as a modest family endeavor in 2019, laying turf in their backyard play area, and has quickly become a rapid success story. In the past two years, the customer-turned-owner small business has grown into a national turf supplier offering various applications, from putting greens and versatile athletic turf to residential and commercial landscaping solutions, including pet-friendly options. Now as Utah’s premier artificial turf supplier, Elite Turf Supply continues its mission to create and educate about the benefits of artificial turf, help homeowners DIY their outdoor spaces and has launched more than 20 turf installation companies along the way.

“We congratulate Elite Turf Supply on their impressive business journey and receiving the recognition as the Small Business Spotlight contest winner,” said Thayne Shaffer, America First Credit Union President and CEO. “At America First Credit Union, we’re dedicated to fostering small businesses like Elite Turf Supply, who exemplify innovation and commitment to their community. We appreciate our partners at the Utah Jazz who help us empower and support local businesses as they contribute to our communities and economic growth.”

“On a day-to-day basis, the Utah Jazz try to partner with companies who want to lean into community initiatives with us,” said Chris Barney, Chief Commercial Officer, Utah Jazz. “We’re excited to partner with Elite Turf Supply, for our team to engage with theirs, and to build on the success they have obviously already had. Small business runs America, and I admire all the finalists and businesses who participated.”

The winner and finalists were invited to a special event to showcase their businesses. Finalists of the 2023 Small Business Spotlight competition include: (listed in alphabetical order)

• Caffé Molise
• Elite Turf Supply
• Intergalactic
• Modelic
• Premier Day Spa
• Utah Sunrooms LLC

Finalists were evaluated on how well they represent Utah, how much they currently give back to the community, and how this opportunity will help them execute their business objectives successfully. The six finalists were picked by a panel of judges comprised of AFCU and Utah Jazz representatives and community and business leaders. The 2023 contest garnered around 150 entries from small businesses across Utah.

For more information about the contest, visit AFCU’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 120 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

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

Riverdale, UT – April 18, 2023 – The 84^th 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 84^th 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.

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

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

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

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