America First Newsroom

America First Credit Union Continues Legacy of Supporting Veterans by Donating Items for Care Packages

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

America First Credit Union Continues Legacy of Supporting Veterans by Donating Items for Care Packages

Credit Union Participates in “Hope for Our Heroes” Campaign Dropping Care Packages

LAS VEGAS – Nov. 17, 2020 – Southern Nevada veterans were treated to a socially distanced caravan in which various community groups, including America First Credit Union (AFCU), dropped off much needed supplies. Veterans also witnessed a parade to thank them for their service during the “Hope for Our Heroes” campaign, which was organized by KTNV TV ABC 13.

On Wednesday, Nov. 11, AFCU business development representative Frank Tavares participated in the caravan visiting older veterans living in assisted living at the Nevada State Veterans Home. To combat the adverse effects of isolation during this global health pandemic, the credit union was one of several groups dropping off 300 care packages filled with goodies including blankets, books, lip balm, sanitizer, tissue, cards, letters and cookies.

“Veterans are one of our country’s greatest assets,” said AFCU president and CEO, John B. Lund. “Now more than ever, veterans need support. It’s a true honor and privilege to help veterans who have done so much for our country. America First Credit Union will continue to support programs that honor our veterans and the service that they provided to our country while making a deep impact on the critical needs that exist in our community.”

To provide much needed support to the more than 150,000 veterans living in Clark County, Nevada, this holiday season, the credit union sponsored the event that partnered with Honor Flight Southern Nevada and Kline Veterans Fund to combat emotional duress.

AFCU is a longtime supporter of veterans. Employees have volunteered with Honor Flight of Southern Nevada (HFSN) by sending guardians on missions to escort veterans to Washington, D.C., for a tour of the memorials. HFSN flies veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War on all-expenses-paid trips to Washington, D.C., to experience — among other landmarks and tourist destinations — the WWII Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Marine Corps/Iwo Jima Memorial, and the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery.

Photo: Frank Tavares, America First Credit Union business development representative, drops off care packages to veterans.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 81 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 128 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $13.8 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,151,000 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

Branded Visa Debit Card Available for Raider Nation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Branded Visa Debit Card Available for Raider Nation

Las Vegas – October 6, 2020 – Raider Nation now has a new way to show its love for the NFL’s most unique team. America First Credit Union, the Raider’s official credit union partner, is launching the first-ever exclusive Raiders debit card fans can use to show team support all year round.

Combining its members-first exceptional service, Raiders fans can display their fandom on their debit card while also gaining access to features and benefits, including Card Guard® and ABC Deals®. The AFCU Las Vegas Raiders debit card is a unique collaboration between the team and credit union that stands out from the rest with the Raider’s iconic colors and logo.

“The Raiders’ partnership underscores our continued investment and interest in supporting the communities and sports fans we serve, which represents the ultimate personalized experience for our members,” said AFCU president and CEO John B. Lund. “AFCU’s comprehensive partnership with the Raiders is an extension of the Raider Nation.”

“We are delighted to partner with America First Credit Union, which not only offers an outstanding portfolio of products, but also aligns with our commitment to the community,” said Las Vegas Raiders President Marc Badain. “In addition, the branded design of the official Raiders debit card allows holders the opportunity to show their Silver & Black pride.”

To request an official Raiders debit card with checking account, visit americafirst.com/raiders or call 800-999-3961.

AFCU’s multiyear Raiders’ partnership includes a program to support small-business owners and a charitable donation component. More information will be forthcoming.

Editor’s Note: Interview opportunities with AFCU representatives are available.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 81 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 131 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $13.7 billion, and the fifth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,144,596 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

During These Uncertain Times, You’ll Find People Helping One Another

By John B. Lund, President and Chief Executive Officer

What a year 2020 has been. The pandemic continues causing a high degree of sadness, illness and death. Unemployment remains high, businesses and the economy are being damaged, many facets of our lives are disrupted, and civil unrest is unfolding across the country we all face additional stress and worry.

If this weren’t enough, we experienced both unseasonably low and high temperatures, gale-force winds, fires, smoke, and other weather-related challenges. It’s certainly shaping up as a time for the record books.

Mr. Rogers, however, would probably have something to say about all the helpers being out there, no matter the circumstances. Fred M. Rogers created and hosted the preschool television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which ran from 1968 to 2001, an incredible 895 episodes. He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2002, a Lifetime Achievement Emmy in 1997, more than 40 honorary degrees, and was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1999. He had a unique ability to discuss hardship, personal difficulties, tragedy, and other problematic issues in an open, caring, and educational manner; all this while providing comfort, perspective, and hope.

Mr. Rogers is quoted as saying, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.'” What a wise woman, offering such simple yet powerful advice. Rather than being overwhelmed with what’s bad in the world, look for the helpers delivering care and support.

Perhaps more importantly, each of us is and can be a helper. There are instances when such assistance is clearly evident and noticeable, but oftentimes it’s more subtle and not seen at all. There are moments when we benefit from helpers, and occasions when we, in turn, offer help. This year has thrown us many curveballs, but we have witnessed the best in one another emerge, no matter the obstacle.

Our mission is to help improve your financial well-being, while simplifying complex and busy lives. The credit union is strong. A dedicated staff and volunteer team works hard to ensure our products and services remain relevant to and are helpful for your changing needs. We appreciate your membership and look forward to a lifetime relationship.

In Challenging Times, We Are Stronger Together

Dear Members,

We can probably all agree that this spring and summer have been seasons without comparison, as we work to navigate troubled and uncharted waters. People around the world are anxious for some good news regarding a vaccine or an effective form of COVID-19 treatment. I am confident our scientific and medical community will eventually prevail.

I want you to know how profoundly grateful I am for the America First team of volunteers and employees. Each day, they are adapting to and meeting membersâ€™ changing needs. Itâ€™s been inspiring to watch and be part of such an amazing group sharing a common purpose. In the end, we will be stronger and more fortunate as we pull together.

We are vital and secure. Despite the challenges posed by the economy and within the communities we serve, America First remains fiscally strong and in a positive position for the future. Weâ€™re dedicated to improving your well-being and simplifying your financial life.

We are moving forward. We have undertaken efforts to improve and broaden our digital capabilities, while keeping a commitment to serving you in the manner that best fits your circumstances. If you havenâ€™t tried our mobile and online banking platforms, I encourage you to do so. The systems are robust, user-friendly & convenient, providing complete money-management capability according to your schedule. Our expansive ATM network also offers 24/7 access to funds and many can take deposits. Please visit us here, call 1-800-999-3961, or stop by a local branch to learn more about our industry-leading electronic services.

We greatly appreciate you choosing America First and look forward to a lifetime relationship.

Sincerely,

John B. Lund, President and Chief Executive Officer

America First Credit Union Integrates Physical Distancing Measures in Latest Branch Opening

Vineyard, Utah – August 31, 2020 – To meet the high demand of members in the fastest growing city in the U.S., America First Credit Union is opening the doors on August 31 to its newest branch in Vineyard, Utah. To encourage psychical distancing and stay a safe essential resource for the community, the new branch will be equipped with plexiglass at all teller stations and other precautions to keep members and branch staff safe. The branch will also utilize two remote tellers at our drive-up, in addition to five in-person tellers. The remote tellers allow for person-to-person interaction that many members enjoy while allowing for physical distancing. The member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution is showing off its newest branch via a virtual tour and grand opening later this week.

The 3,350 square-feet branch, located at 758 East Mill Road, Vineyard, UT, will be managed by Michelle Bohn, who has been part of the America First team for more than 27 years and has worked at 12 branch locations. She started as a student trainee while in high school at the Ogden Main Branch, has been a lead teller at in-store locations, assistant manager/manager at two locations and a market manager at four locations.

“I’ve had the opportunity to work for America First in twelve branches from Cache Valley to Utah County and our number one priority is always our members,” said Bohn, America First’s Vineyard branch manager. “We want to provide the best member experience to the Vineyard community and so we have integrated all different options into this branch to fit the various needs of each of our members. So whether you want to work with a teller or loan officer in person, utilize a virtual/remote teller so you’re still talking to a person but in an environment you’re comfortable with, or have the ease and convenience of our online and mobile options, there’s a solution for every member.”

Also available to members and the many young families, college students and recent graduates in the Vineyard community, a financial counselor will be available by appointment at the branch to be a resource for members who are looking to improve their financial literacy, manage student loans, and improve their financial security. America First team members will also be on hand to assist members with new checking/savings accounts as well as personal and business loans.

The branch is equipped with five in-person tellers and two remote tellers, five loan stations, and a drive-up ATM. The lobby will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday with the drive-up opening at 9 a.m. on those days and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.

In celebration of the grand opening, America First members who open a new savings account or a new checking account and deposit $25 the first two weeks of opening (Aug 31 – Sept 12) will receive $25. There will also be a chance for members to win a $500 America First Visa Card for members who visit the branch during that time.

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ABOUT AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

Proudly celebrating 81 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 131 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $13.6 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,137,648 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

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

Get a sweet treat from Fiiz & America First Credit Union

America First Credit Union is excited to continue their beloved Sweet Treat Fridays. They bring you delicious discounts on tasty treats on the last Friday of every month. This is only for AFCU members. You can follow their social media platforms or visit their website to learn more each month. This month America First Credit Union is teaming up with FiiZ Drinks for Sweet Treat Fridays.

On August 28th, the first 25 members per location can get one free drink by showing your America First Visa® debit/credit card at your local FiiZ. If you don’t make it in time for a free drink, members can still take get a free bump up in drink size all day when you use your AFCU Visa debit/credit card. Whether it’s your go-to FiiZ drink or you want to try something new, FiiZ has you covered with everything from sodas and desserts to fruit smoothies and salty snacks.

America First will continue to have its members covered with exclusive deals & discounts all year long. It’s their way of saying thanks for your membership. Check out their “Deals and Discounts” page online for more information.

America First Credit Union is also opening up a new branch in Vineyard. The 3,350 square-feet branch, located at 758 East Mill Road, Vineyard, UT, will be managed by Michelle Bohn, who has been part of the America First team for more than 27 years and has worked at 12 branch locations and is extremely excited to now be serving the Vineyard community.

To find out more about Sweet Treat Fridays or get more information about the new Vineyard location visit America First Credit Union now.

Source

Guest Commentary: Weathering Financial Storms to Preserve Our Collective Health

By Rex Rollo, Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer

In the mid-18^th century, Benjamin Franklin said, “Some people are weatherwise, but most are otherwise.” Such disciplined attention to everyday events helped Mr. Franklin navigate life during stormy weather, and his sentiment illustrates that planning for the future is a key principle of long-term success. I think Ben would agree the best time to make sure you have a good umbrella is while the sun is still shining.

As we and our members have faced COVID-19’s economic fallout, America First has benefitted from preparations we’ve been making since the Great Recession, working to increase the size and strength of our reserve umbrella to temper future storms.

While the pandemic continues raging, we utilize these reserves to help those caught in the middle of the disturbance. America First has waived fees, offered short-term loans, provided payment-skipping programs and more, giving members additional time to adjust their financial situations.

Many wisely adapted to our digital channels for transactions, deposits and complete account-management needs. This has been effective in preserving staff safety by limiting branch activity and allowing visitors to keep appropriate distance. Taking advantage of government stimulus to build savings, pay loans in advance, and restructure financing has also been a wise fiscal strategy employed by our members, who are reevaluating their spending and budgets to maintain stronger positions.

At this midyear point, after enduring a full quarter of COVID-19, we are doing everything possible to build trust, just as we endeavored to do in the recession a decade ago. Earnings will naturally fall in the months ahead, as we add capital to ensure ongoing security. We are forging ahead, with yearly growth goals being met or exceeded. Prudent planning has dictated that we slow project expenditures, adjust revenue outlooks, and take cost-cutting measures. Indicators show we are seeing positive results and we’re committed to continuing these efforts.

Because of our preparation and diligence, we will weather this storm in good fashion. I believe Citizen Franklin would consider our guiding motto of people helping people to be “weatherwise” rather than “otherwise.”

Free cupcakes with America First Credit Union

During what has been a hard time for most, a little something sweet can brighten your day.

There is a partnership and event happening on July 31^st called Sweet Tooth Friday, between America First Credit Union and the Sweet Tooth Fairy in Orem, Utah.

With what is one of its many efforts, America First Credit Union often looks for opportunities to partner with other business in the community to offer deals to its members.

This Friday, America First members can come into the Sweet Tooth Fairy Orem location, show their America First Visa or Debit Card, and get a free cupcake. If they are out, you can still get a 15% discount on your order.

You can try America First’s signature cupcake: vanilla marble with cream filling, Sweet Tooth Fairy signature frosting, topped with a disc of the America First logo.

If you are not a member, go to AmericaFirst.com or go to one of its locations across the state to find out how to join.

Source

America the Beautiful

By John B. Lund, President & Chief Executive Officer

I think it is safe to say this has not been the year any of us expected. With everything that has happened, it feels like we have had a decade’s worth of newsworthy and challenging events packed into just the last six months. Almost overnight the threat of COVID-19 transformed our routines, communities, businesses & economy, and permeated so many aspects of our lives. Concepts like social distancing, being apart together, flattening the curve, and working from home have entered our common lexicon. Civil unrest on a scale we have not seen in decades has been at the front and center of public discourse. Conversations about our shared hopes, concerns, and what freedom means to each one of us are taking place in the U.S. Capitol, our statehouses, on social media, at public gatherings, and around countless dinner tables.

Still, despite the challenges we are facing, I am optimistic about our future. Because if there is one thing our shared history has proven again and again, it is that Americans can rise together to meet any challenge, face any trial, and overcome any obstacle. We are not a perfect nation and we are relatively young by the world’s standards. But we are a nation of incredible people, innovative thinkers, and ennobling ideals. We cherish our independence and honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much to safeguard it. We love our wild spaces and carry a bit of that wild, untamable spirit with us. We disagree, debate, and opine, but when life’s storms strike, we show up in droves to repair, rebuild, lift, and love. We are the product of the beautiful and ever-evolving dream of hundreds of millions, and I know of no place on earth where such a diverse collection of people is more committed to becoming better and working together to build a society in which everyone has the opportunities, resources, and encouragement they need to make the most of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Throughout almost 250 years together, we Americans have defined ourselves by the way we improve, overcome, and ultimately become stronger than we were before.

As members of America First, our unity of purpose is also deep and enduring. And as a credit union, we are driven by our passion for serving our members, and by our commitment to helping each one of them to improve their financial well-being and to withstand whatever difficult times life brings.

Thank you for your membership and loyalty. We look forward to a lifelong relationship with each of you.

Thirty-two Seniors Honored by America First Credit Union

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thirty-two Seniors Honored by America First Credit Union
$16K in Scholarships Awarded to High School Student Athletes

Riverdale, Utah – June 1, 2020 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) is recognizing 32 Utah high school senior student-athletes, awarding $16,000 in total scholarships. To date, the credit union has awarded over $76,500 in scholarships to deserving students.

Each of the students who were awarded were nominated by their school for their involvement in a sport, their 3.5 or higher-grade point average, and outstanding citizenship and community involvement.

This effort, in partnership with Utah TV stations KJZZ and KMYU’s Thursday Night Lights and Friday Night Rival program, recognized 22 Utah high school senior student-athletes each with $500 scholarships. AFCU awarded the winning students with an on-field check presentation which aired live on KJZZ and KMYU.

AFCU also partnered with KSL for their digital Game Night Live to highlight ten Utah high school student-athletes. Game Night Live students were honored with a $500 check presentation via Facebook Live.

In place of the annual ceremony, which was canceled due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, KUTV will be honoring each of the student-athletes live on Talkin Sports from May 23 through June 13 and in a highlight video on Talkin Sports and on their social channels.

Thursday Night Lights and Friday Night Rivals Honorees	Game Night Live Honorees

Eliza Balfe – Corner Canyon High School	William Francom – Springville High School
Alta Tabar – Park City High School	Annie Murdock – Highland High School
Caylyn Ponich – Davis High School	Logan Baty – Roy High School
Kale Wakely – Jordan High School	Caroline Murri – Alta High School
Tyler Easton – Corner Canyon High School	Lucy Jones – Stansbury High School
Luke Johnson – Weber High School	Dana Kim – Skyview High School
Sam Langi – East High School	Easton Allred – Corner Canyon High School
Sidney Preator – Timpanogos High School	Paulina Jimenez – East High School
MeKenna Trader – Woods Cross High School	Camilla Hatch – Kearns High School
Ainzlee Enger – Herriman High School	Makayla Lear – Grantsville High School
Bailey Hill – Roy High School
Tige Voorhees – Fremont High School
Wyatt Marx – Bingham High School
Kai Roberts – Skyridge High School
Hailee Oldroyd – Salem Hills High School
Grace Poulson – Corner Canyon High School
Sydney Neilson – Sky View High School
Courtney Giles – American Fork High School
Isaac Andrewsen – Riverton High School
Jordan Falls – Alta High School
Ashlyn Hall – Syracuse High School
Peter Bickel – Olympus High School

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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 132 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $12.2 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,107,706 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

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