America First Credit Union Offers Exclusive Youth Soccer Clinic Contest with Las Vegas Lights FC

For Immediate Release

America First Credit Union Offers Exclusive Youth Soccer Clinic Contest with Las Vegas Lights FC

September 16, 2019 – LAS VEGAS – Children in Las Vegas will get a chance to practice, learn and play soccer directly from Las Vegas Lights FC coaches and players thanks to America First Credit Union (AFCU). Now through Thursday, Sept. 19, people can enter by visiting the company’s social media channels to nominate a child for the Amazingly Fabulous Completely Unbelievable youth soccer clinic.

During the clinic, players and coaches will run a practice for participants similar to their own professional practices. The 1.5-hour clinic will include warmups, drills, Q&A session with the players and coaches, and time for participants to get autographs from their favorite players.

People can enter the contest by commenting with the child’s name and age on Instagram (@AmericaFirst), Facebook (AmericaFirstCU)) and Twitter (@AFCU) contest posts.  Winners will be randomly selected by AFCU representatives and notified via the social media platforms in which they applied.

Nominations are accepted now through the September 19th at 11:59 pm PT. 40 winners will be contacted directly via social media on September 20th.

Children ages 8 through 12 will have the opportunity to be a part of the AFCU youth soccer clinic.

The clinic will take place on Saturday, Oct. 4 from 6-7:30 p.m. at Cashman Field.

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AMERICA FIRST CREDIT UNION

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

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

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

America First Credit Union to Honor 1 October Survivors at UNLV Football Game

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

America First Credit Union to Honor 1 October Survivors at UNLV Football Game

LAS VEGAS – September 19, 2019 – America First Credit Union (AFCU) will donate hundreds of tickets to 1 October survivors to attend the Sat., Oct. 5 UNLV football game against Boise State. The game, which is the Rebels’ 49th and final season playing at Sam Boyd Stadium, starts at 7:30 p.m.

The credit union will donate 300 tickets to the Vegas Strong Resiliency Center, the leading organization providing long-term support to people impacted by the 1 October tragedy. AFCU is offering complimentary tickets to survivors and up to four of their family members. The Resiliency Center is coordinating ticket distribution to survivors. Individuals looking to acquire tickets can email vegasstrongresiliencycenter@clarkcountynv.gov or call 702-455-2433 during business hours. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday−Friday except holidays.

“America First Credit Union is committed to strengthening the community,” said AFCU president and CEO, John Lund. “We hope this experience brings joy to survivors during the healing process.”

“After the tragic events of 1 October, UNLV was proud to be a small part of the healing process when the community came together for a Rebel football game that weekend,” said UNLV director of athletics, Desiree Reed-Francois. “It is something none of us will ever forget and we applaud the efforts being made to honor survivors.”

“We are grateful to America First Credit Union for recognizing those impacted by this tragedy,” said director of the VSRC, Tennille Pereira. “For any survivor looking for additional resources, the Resiliency Center is available by email, phone, or walk-in.”

Additionally, AFCU members can use their America First Visa® to get four complimentary tickets to attend the game. They just need to show their card at the AFCU booth located outside the stadium on the day of the game. Ticket supplies are limited and will be provided while supplies last.

The UNLV Athletics Department will honor heroes including servicemembers, veterans, military doctors and first responders. They welcome members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families to the game as part of the “Seats for Service” program, which provides complimentary tickets to servicemembers for Rebel sports events. First responders will take part in a halftime game before marching bands from Boise State and UNLV perform a patriotic show.

AFCU extends its brand footprint to the sports industry, having already enjoyed a partnership with the Raiders, Vegas Golden Knights, Las Vegas Aviators and the Las Vegas Lights FC.

On Oct. 1, 2017, 58 were killed and hundreds were injured by a lone gunman at the Route 91 music festival. This event is one of numerous #VegasStronger activities highlighting the area’s unity and strength in the aftermath. A calendar of activities can be found at www.lasvegasnewswire.com/events.

 

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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 128 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.2 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,041,000 members.

Vegas Strong Resiliency Center
The Vegas Strong Resiliency Center, a multi-agency resource hub managed by Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada, supports those affected by the 1 October tragedy. It is funded by the Nevada State Division of Child and Family Services grant 2019-V7-GX-0001 from FY2018 Antiterrorism and Emergency Assistance Program through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime.

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

autumn

Autumn Preparation for Winter Protection

The weather may seem nice right now, but winter is coming. Properly preparing your house in autumn can help prevent costly damage from rain, ice and snow. Here are some tips on how to save some money as you ready your residence for the cold weather.

  • Clear Your Gutters – Clogged gutters can cause water to pool on your roof and cracked downspouts can lead to damaged foundations and flooding basements. Before the wet weather arrives, remove leaves and other debris from your gutters. Test the flow of water with a hose. Look for cracks or breaks and repair where needed.
  • Protect Your Pipes – Turn off your sprinklers, open the valves, and drain the pipes—this will help prevent them bursting due to expanding ice. Unhook your hoses and store them in a garage or shed to extend their lives and shut off all outdoor plumbing.
  • Check Your Roof – It’s much easier to inspect your roof when it’s not slick with rain. Fix for any raised or damaged shingles. Plus, while you’re up there, you could even hang your Christmas lights, so you don’t have to do it in the snow—just don’t turn them on until after Thanksgiving.
  • Inspect Your Heater – Furnace filters are easy to change, but you should also have a specialist inspect your HVAC system and make sure the ducts are clear. Make sure the vents aren’t blocked. If you have a fireplace, you should clear ashes and debris out, then have a professional clean the chimney.
  • Do a Safety Check – Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Change the batteries if necessary. Additionally, check your fire extinguishers and make an emergency escape plan with your family.
  • Test for Drafts – Your heaters won’t be very effective if all the warm air is seeping out of your home. Check for drafts by putting your hand near the edges of windows and doors. Use weather stripping or caulk to stop cold air from entering your house.
  • Strengthen Your Lawn – Mow your grass one last time in autumn, and don’t forget to empty the gas tank of the mower before storing it. Fertilize your lawn before the first frost for a healthier yard when the spring thaw comes. This will strengthen the roots to resist the lower temperatures and help your yard green up faster in the spring.
  • Prep Your Garden – Clear weeds out. Plant bulbs, such as tulips, daffodils and irises in the autumn for a beautiful start to spring. Inspect trees on your property for weak or damaged branches that could break if weighed down by snow. Bring your more delicate plants inside.
  • Stock Up on Supplies – Put an ice scraper in your car. Buy some ice melt. Check your snow shovels and your snow blower. It may seem too early for all this, but you’ll be thankful when that first snow starts to fall.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

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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 128 locations, and is the 9th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.2 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,041,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

Guest Commentary: The New Online and Mobile Banking Experience

Rich Syme
Rich Syme – Chief Growth & Digital Transformation Officer

By Rich Syme, Executive Vice President & Contact Center Delivery, Product Management

It’s a bit cliché, but to say technology evolves quickly might be the understatement of the century. In my role overseeing our digital services, I can see this transformation up close. It’s incredible and, honestly, a little overwhelming just how rapidly change comes to the ways in which we engage with the world and each other. Of special importance to me is the effect such advancement has on day-to-day money management.

A central goal is empowering America First members, providing them with the ability to handle their finances in the manner they find most beneficial, meaningful, and convenient. That’s why we’re excited about launching new online & mobile banking upgrades. These enhancements, and those on the way,are meant to make your experience better, easier, and more personal.

Online banking features a streamlined design and increased browser responsiveness, including when you’re using a mobile device it’s complete functionality, even on the go. You can add two-step authentication to strengthen security, while your histories will show balances after pending transactions clear. Plus, a new widget brings up a complete picture of where your money is going and how your budget stands. The platform also allows us to seamlessly integrate future benefits & advantages, so we’ll be sure to let you know as we roll them out.

With our new mobile banking app, it’s simple to maintain your financial well-being, 24/7. We designed it with an improved user-friendly interface, as well as additional customizable options. There are biometric logins for devices with that function, you’ll be able to deposit checks without going to a branch, and you can include accounts from other financial institutions in budget and spending overviews.

Of course, mobile banking delivers the protection of Card Guard, truly an amazing app for iOS and Android. As someone who’s spent considerable time singing its praises, my pitch boils down to this: Card Guard® allows members to control when, where, and how Visa® debit and credit cards are used.

It’s an incredibly powerful tool, letting you turn cards on and off in real time. If you lose a card, or just want the peace of mind that comes from knowing your Visa can’t be used until you’re ready for it, switch it off with a single tap. You can also set transaction limits based on amount, geographic location, and merchant or transaction type. It even lets you disable cards automatically when they’re not close to your mobile device. When Card Guard is installed, you’ll receive alerts about when, where, and for how much your card was used. It also informs you of declined transactions due to suspicious activity. In essence, Card Guard is security you control.

Online & mobile banking from America First can help you make the most of every moment and every dollar. These upgrades are the result of untold hours of thought and dedication, and I can’t wait to hear what you think of them. I’m privileged to witness firsthand the passion and commitment our digital services team has for finding, creating, and developing innovative ways for you to pursue your unique financial dreams, in the way that best fits your life and lifestyle.

America First Credit Union Cuts Ribbon on New Brigham City Branch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

America First Credit Union Cuts Ribbon on New Brigham City Branch

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

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

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

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

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

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

America First Branch

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

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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 128 locations, and is the 9th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.2 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,041,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

Raiders and America First Credit Union Announce Exclusive Partnership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Raiders and America First Credit Union Announce Exclusive Partnership

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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 128 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.2 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,041,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

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

5 Tips of Financial Wisdom for National Financial Awareness Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

5 Tips of Financial Wisdom for National Financial Awareness Day  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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 128 locations, and is the ninth largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $11.1 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,021,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

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

Guest Commentary: Measured Growth & Shared Strength Drive America First

Rex Rollo
Rex Rollo – Executive VP / Chief Financial Officer
By Rex Rollo, Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer

Through July, America First achieved double-digit growth in both assets and deposits, generating earnings that elevated the credit union’s net worth to exceed 150% of well-capitalized regulatory requirements.

In total, assets of more than $11 billion make us Utah’s largest credit union and the ninth most substantial in the nation, with 128 branches in Utah, Nevada, Arizona and Idaho. We at America First are privileged to have increased liquidity and an improved efficiency ratio.

Such figures for the first six months of 2019 are indeed notable for any financial institution. What sets us apart, however, is that we achieved these benchmarks while expanding our market presence and broadening our brand recognition, delivering the ability to handle millions of transactions through digital channels. These positive and ongoing results clearly indicate the strength and long-term success of America First Credit Union.

Behind the statistics, ratios & amounts, however, our greatest measurement of success is the growing number of people who join America First every day membership now stands at over one million. The philosophy of people helping people drives us to perform at the highest level, supporting the America First mission statement: “our chief concern is the financial well-being of our members.” In like fashion, as members develop financial health by using more products and services, the organization’s collective well-being is enhanced. This is as true today as it was 80 years ago, when 59 individuals founded the credit union we now enjoy.

In almost all respects, we stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us. Our lives are better because of their efforts and, through their hard-fought gains, we enjoy the view from higher ground. In much the same way, America First always strives to be in the best possible position to help members. Past, present and future, those who have united and will unite to benefit each other fulfills the promise on which we stand. It is with gratitude that we thank you for propelling America First forward, creating strong shoulders for others.

splash pad

Splish at a Splash Pad this Summer

If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a waterpark, consider taking your kids to a splash pad. These recreational areas are usually run by the city—so most of them are free—and they include fountains, spray nozzles and other water features to help you cool off. Plus, since there normally isn’t any standing water at these public parks, swimming lessons are not required.

Here are some tips to get the most out of your family trip to a splash pad:

  • Look around – You may have seen a local splash pad nearby, but it’s probably not the only one. Search online to see how many are close to home.
  • Time it right – Mornings at the splash pad tend to be busy. You may find it to be less crowded if you go later in the afternoon.
  • Prep beforehand – Get everyone in their swimsuits and sunscreen applied beforehand, so no one has to wait to play in the water.
  • Don’t forget towels – Even in hot weather, playing in the water can make you cold. And make sure to dry everyone off before the drive back.
  • Bring some bandages – Wherever children and wet concrete meet, slips & scrapes will happen. Keep the fun going with some simple first aid.
  • Keep it clean – Use swim diapers for those who aren’t potty trained yet to avoid contaminating the water supply. Change dirty diapers immediately.
  • Supply some snacks – Nothing keeps your kids happy like a quick break to eat some treats. Keep it simple and keep the cooler at home.
  • Keep ’em hydrated – Playing in the sun will make you thirsty. Bring a couple of water bottles so no one is tempted to drink water from the nozzles.
  • Expect a short stay – Splash pads are fun, but it’s not an all-day event. After an hour or so your little splashers will probably run out of steam.