America First Credit Union Opens Business Center in Salt Lake City

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALT LAKE CITY – February 4, 2020 – On the heels of the Silicon Slopes Tech Summit which celebrated Utah’s entrepreneurs, America First Credit Union (AFCU) is opening a Business Center in Salt Lake City to support and champion Utah businesses. The downtown-based center is a hub and resource for business-owning members to find tools, products, services and people that will help them meet their businesses’ dynamic needs.

“The collective drive to excel is one of the things I love most about being able to work with the Utah companies, and one of the things that makes doing business here so exciting,” said Blake Weathers, AFCU Senior Vice President Business Services. “Whether your organization is small or large, or you’re are startup or one of the old guards, we’ve created the Business Center to help you take your business further.”

At the Business Center, AFCU and community members will have access to local industry experts, including those from AFCU’s Business Development team. They will be able to meet with business account specialists who can help with any product or service needs they might have, including the AFCU’s extensive suite of Merchant Services, business planning through LivePlan, ACH and payroll, and setting up or making changes to business members’ accounts.

Lending services will also be offered at the Business Center, where a lending team is on hand to help members apply for or set up Lines of Credit or Visa credit cards and they’ll be able to help with needs for Small Business, SBA, Commercial Real Estate, and other Business Loans.

The America First Business Center is located in the credit union’s Salt Lake Metro Branch at 455 South 500 East. The Business Center shares the same hours of operation as the branch, making it easy for members to take care of personal finance needs as well.

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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 $11.7 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,071,000 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

America First Credit Union Opens 110th Utah Branch in Murray

Murray, UT – February 3, 2020– America First Credit Union (AFCU) is set to open a new branch on Feb. 3 inside Macey’s grocery store to serve as a convenient option for members and better serve the Murray community.

The new branch is located inside Macey’s at 5632 South 900 East, Murray, UT 84121. It will operate from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

The leading, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution branch will be managed by Shannon Marshall, who has been part of the AFCU team for five years as a teller, receptionist, loan officer, assistant manager and market assistant manager.

The full-service, 555-square-foot branch includes one teller station, one loan office stations, a branch self-service kiosk, and an ATM inside the Macey’s that can be used anytime the grocery store is open.

“We are excited to make our services even more readily available to our members who visit the store,” said Marshall.
“We welcome the opportunity to serve shoppers that walk-in front of our in-store branch every week achieve their financial goals.”

AFCU members will be able to perform everyday financial transactions at this branch, including withdrawals and deposits, in addition to opening checking, savings, and loan products.

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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 $11.7 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,071,000 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

Guest Commentary: Harnessing the Benefits of Economic Growth

Glen OlpenBy Glen Olpin, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist

The nation’s ongoing fiscal recovery has become the longest-running period of American economic growth on record. January was the 127th month of expansion since the Great Recession concluded, far surpassing the previous mark. However, it is also notable that the pace of improvement is the slowest in history.

Consumers are leading the way, as our collective confidence is at an all-time high; many are comfortable with increasing their spending and debt levels. Personal income is up from last year, while inflation risk and U.S. unemployment remain low. Utah and Idaho enjoy robust employment, while the jobless rates in Nevada and Arizona inched only slightly higher.

Home prices across the country continue on an upward trajectory, but it is not quite as rapid. For the first time in many years, personal incomes are moderately outpacing housing costs. Western states are seeing home prices surge at a rate higher than the national average.

Auto sales slowed only modestly in 2019, with on-and-off downturns projected to extend into 2020. Overall, though, sales are expected to remain robust. Business production and capital expenditures are decreasing, while positive news regarding the resolution of trade disagreements could boost the economy and investment markets.

Overall U.S. economic strength, as measured by real gross domestic product, has been moderating. The yield curve, inverted for a short period during late summer last year, added to worries about future growth. We can expect election-year politics to generate further concerns as well.

What does this mean for America First in 2020?

  • Our credit union is, without question, financially strong and well capitalized
  • Economic slowdowns are uncomfortable, but the durability of our local economies can guard against negative national trends
  • As economic volatility persists, expect higher unemployment
  • Savings should grow, as members improve personal financial balance sheets
  • Competitive consumer borrowing will be available
  • Expect lower rates, especially in the short-term
  • Improved affordability, along with lower mortgage rates, will provide home-buying & refinancing opportunities

On balance, 2019 proved positive for the credit union and our valued members. Although some weakening signals appear in the forecast, we expect to manage any economic fluctuations and continue delivering the benefits you’ve earned.

During my career, I was privileged to witness and personally participate in the tremendous growth and success of America First, founded in 1939 on the principles of service, sharing resources, and members working alongside one another to achieve financial health. Going forward into the next 80 years, we remain committed to these same ideals, providing high-quality, competitive, convenient, safe and professional services to those who choose membership in our credit union.

Editor’s note: Glen retired in January 2020 after 44 years of service to America First Credit Union members.

America First Credit Union Cut Ribbon on Second Idaho Branch in Rexburg

Rexburg, ID – [January 28, 2020] – America First Credit Union (AFCU) celebrated the opening of a new branch in Rexburg with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, January 24. The member-owned credit union is doubling its footprint in the state with its other branch located in Boise. The new branch, which opened on Dec. 16, is located at 510 N 2nd E in Rexburg.

The leading, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution branch is managed by Andrew Hadlock who has been part of the AFCU team for three years as a teller, loan officer, lead teller and assistant manager.

“I love helping people work toward and meet their financial goals and better their financial well-being,” said Hadlock. “I’m excited to be able to work with the community of Rexburg.”

The full-service, 1,353-square-foot branch includes two teller stations, two loan office stations, a branch self-service kiosk and an external ATM on the front of the branch. The branch will be open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed Saturday and Sunday.

Photo: The 1,353-square-foot branch is AFCU’s second location in Idaho.

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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 131 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.7 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,071,000 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

Volunteers Dedicated to Serving Members

In accordance with America First bylaws, the Board of Directors Nominations Committee has identified four members who will stand for election by acclamation at the credit union’s Annual Meeting on April 21, 2020.

After thorough interviews and qualification screenings, the incumbent Board candidates are:

Linda K. Carver
David M. McKonkie
Gil A. Miller
James G. Wendler

Please join us in congratulating these volunteers, who selflessly give of their time, talent, expertise and experience to enhance the financial well-being of America First members.

America First Credit Union Announces Extended Partnership with Real Salt Lake

AFCU Becomes Official Credit Union of Real Salt Lake, Utah Royals FC and Rio Tinto Stadium

OGDEN, Utah – (Tuesday, January 14, 2020) – America First Credit Union (AFCU) is proud to announce a long-term extension to its partnership with Real Salt Lake.  With the extension, America First Credit Union will become the Official Credit Union of Real Salt Lake, Utah Royals FC and Rio Tinto Stadium, and will also have a significant partnership with the 2019 USL Championship title-winning Real Monarchs and the RSL Youth Development Academy.

The partnership extension will provide more exclusive America First Credit Union member-only benefits and connectivity with fans, and generate deeper, stronger and better market-wide promotions – including AFCU/Real Salt Lake and AFCU/Utah Royals FC co-branded credit and debit cards.  Building on a long-standing partnership between the club and AFCU that has seen numerous activations at Rio Tinto Stadium, including in the America First Credit Union Pavilion, the two Utah community leaders will now extend their relationship to include promotions with the America First Charitable Foundation and the RSL Youth Development Academy.

“America First Credit Union is always looking for ways to provide value to our members and enhance our communities and we’re thankful to be able to provide that through our partnership with Real Salt Lake,” said John B. Lund, AFCU President and CEO. “We’ll continue to invest in community members and organizations that support and inspire those in our community to secure their goals, both literally and financially.”

“America First Credit Union has long been a valued partner with Real Salt Lake and this extension and commitment not only broadens the spectrum of the relationship to include a wider array of activation possibilities, but also provides a much deeper connection between the RSL organization and AFCU,” Real Salt Lake Chief Business Officer Andrew Carroll said.  “America First Credit Union and its members have made a tremendous commitment in support of Utah’s soccer community for all men, women, boys and girls, which further demonstrates their special and comprehensive commitment to Utah’s community overall.”

Real Salt Lake finished the 2019 season third in the Western Conference at 16-13-5 (53 points) and advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals for the second consecutive season.  RSL will open the 2020 season on the road against Orlando City SC on February 29 before returning to Rio Tinto Stadium for the home opener against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday, March 7, at 12 p.m. MT.

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 131 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.7 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,071,000 members.

About Real Salt Lake
Real Salt Lake has been a staple in Utah communities since the club’s inaugural season in 2005.  Winners of the 2009 MLS Cup, RSL continues to impress on and off the field under Owner Dell Loy Hansen, regularly filling Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy and expanding into the inclusion of Utah Royals FC in the NWSL and Real Monarchs in the USL Championship.

 

Volunteer Service Highlights Annual Meeting

In accordance with America First Credit Union bylaws, four members will be elected to three-year terms on our Board of Directors at the Annual Meeting. It is scheduled for 7 p.m. on April 21, 2020 at the David S. Eccles Conference Center in Ogden, Utah. Incumbent volunteers, who serve without compensation, are:

Linda K. Carver | Gil A. Miller | James G. Wendler | David M. McConkie

Those interested in becoming directors must meet the following minimum standards:

  • Membership in good standing
  • Legal age (18 years or older)
  • Bondable
  • Free from any conflicts of interest
  • Available for all Board of Directors, Committee, and other designated meetings unless excused

Please submit your application and resume to the America First Nominations Committee by 5 p.m. on January 10, 2020. You can complete the process online here.

Nominations by petition are also accepted and must include qualification statements, documents attested to by 500 fellow America First members, and a signed certificate from the nominee stating he or she is agreeable to the process and will serve if elected. Petition applications, which can be completed here, must be received by 5 p.m., February 28, 2020. Nominations are not accepted from the floor at the meeting.

The Principles that Lead to Longevity

John LundBy John B. Lund, President and Chief Executive Officer

My maternal grandmother lived to be 102, having been born in 1898 and passing away in 2000.  Reaching the age of over a century is quite an accomplishment and demonstration in perseverance. Perhaps what interests me most about her amazing life, however, is that she experienced firsthand the entire 1900s.

It’s extraordinary to think of the world’s development during her lifetime. She was there for the first automobiles, airplanes, radios, televisions and more. She ultimately witnessed space travel and men landing on the moon. She experienced years when tremendous advances in medicine were made, when cures for terrible diseases were found, and when technological innovations including the internet were realized.

On one occasion, I asked my grandmother what she felt may have attributed to her longevity. Without hesitation, she responded, “If you need to shed a tear, shed it and then get on with life and don’t worry about things you can’t control.”

She did not have an easy time, losing her husband at a young age and going through tremendous economic hardships. She battled breast cancer and bravely faced numerous personal and family challenges.

When I think of her attitude and wisdom, I am truly grateful for her legacy and am encouraged about the future as we move forward in a new decade. It is a time when many of us make resolutions and commitments for the months to come. As I set my own goals for 2020, I will strive always to take my grandmother’s advice to heart.

The past year proved to be one of strength and solid performance for the credit union. We celebrated our 80th anniversary and achieved the significant milestone of surpassing one million members. We are grateful for your business, loyalty, and remain dedicated to providing each of you with the personal attention you deserve, as well as the finest products & services you need.

Our mission is to help simplify and improve the financial portion of your life, minimize stress, and strengthen a lasting partnership that benefits you and your family.

America First Credit Union Opens Second Idaho Branch in Rexburg

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

America First Credit Union Opens Second Idaho Branch in Rexburg

Rexburg, ID – December 16, 2019 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) is celebrating the opening of a new branch in Idaho on Monday with a new location in Rexburg. The member-owned credit union is doubling its footprint in the state with its other branch located in Boise. The new branch, opening on Dec. 16, is located at 510 N 2nd E in Rexburg.

The leading, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution branch will be managed by Andrew Hadlock who has been part of the AFCU team for three years as a teller, loan officer, lead teller and assistant manager.

“I love helping people work toward and meet their financial goals and better their financial well-being,” said Hadlock. “I’m excited to be able to work with the community of Rexburg.”

The full-service, 1,353-square-foot branch includes two teller stations, two loan office stations, a branch self-service kiosk and an external ATM on the front of the branch. The branch will be open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed Saturday and Sunday.

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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 131 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.5 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,062,000 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

Nonprofits Receive $110,000 in Donations from America First Credit Union to Make Impact on Local Communities

For Immediate Release
December 12, 2019 

Nonprofits Receive $110,000 in Donations from America First Credit Union to Make Impact on Local Communities

 

Riverdale, Utah – To uplift the communities in which America First Credit Union (AFCU) is invested, the group donated $110,000 to 11 nonprofits serving Utah and Southern Nevada. As part of the credit union’s Community Assistance Program (CAP), the credit union recognized each of the nonprofits at an annual event celebrating nonprofits.

During the event, each organization was presented with a $10,000 check, which they will use to further their respective missions. The local nonprofits recognized include: Cathedral of Madeleine Good Samaritan Program, Catholic Community Services Joyce Hansen Hall Food Bank, Christmas Box International, Food & Care Coalition, For the Kids, Safe Nest Shelter, Lantern House, The Road Home, Three Square Food Bank, Your Community Connection of Northern Utah, and The Logan Family Center.

“We are grateful for our dedicated members whose contributions make these funds possible,” said Nicole Cypers, AFCU VP of public relations. “Our foundation will continue to uphold the philosophy of people helping people because it’s in our DNA.”

For the past 30 years, AFCU has donated to nonprofits. The purpose of the CAP program is to provide strategic financial support to some of the greatest community needs – job assistance, training, housing, food and medical services.

Nonprofits Receive $110,000 in Donations
Representatives from the eleven nonprofits serving Utah and Southern Nevada, accepted checks for $10,000.

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 130 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.5 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,062,000 members.

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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