Our Real Heroes

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

Over many years, I’ve been privileged to meet and chat with famous athletes and sporting icons, often referred to as cultural heroes. Such individuals include professional basketball players, members of the PGA Tour golf elite, soccer stars, gymnasts, even a few music & entertainment luminaries. The talent with which these folks are blessed and what they accomplish in their endeavors is certainly impressive and appreciated by hundreds of thousands; they inspire and provide us with thrilling memories.

However, as I think further about the concept of heroes and how it applies to the real people surrounding us, the exemplary America First staff comes to mind. Our team strives diligently to help members fulfill their dreams, develop & maintain financial well-being, alleviate stressful circumstances, and simplify their lives. I will share three quick examples.

A gentleman recently visited a local branch with his autistic grandson, whom he hoped to assist in finding a job at Deseret Industries. The immediate problem was that the grandson did not have any government-issued identification, which is necessary for both employment and receiving pay to be deposited at a financial institution. The grandfather was indeed worried and frustrated but, long story short, our branch manager worked directly with this member and found a solution for getting his grandson ID and an account. I was blessed to get a wonderful letter that expressed sincere appreciation for our manager and her willingness to go above and beyond in helping this young man secure his first identification card, savings account and, I’m happy to report, job – he was all smiles when his first check arrived!

I also learned of another terrific branch leader who spent countless hours assisting a single mother research and meet the requirements to qualify for her very first mortgage. The happiness and joy exhibited by this mother in having a home of her own to raise this child was evident in her thankful note.

Lastly, I was in a restaurant in the Salt Lake airport, having a bite to eat because my flight was delayed. My server immediately noticed the America First logo on my shirt and exclaimed, “You saved my life!” I had never met her, let alone saved her life. Yet this kind woman explained that she was referred to our credit union by a friend and we found a way to consolidate her bills so that she was able to save hundreds each month, putting some money away for her son’s college education.

These are simple, powerful, potentially life-changing experiences our credit union was able to facilitate – all by helping each America First member, every single day. The people who work here are the real heroes in my eyes and in the sight of those they serve. We are truly grateful for your membership, loyalty and stories. We look forward to a lifetime relationship.

America First Credit Union Holding Shred-Your-Stuff Saturday

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

America First Credit Union Holding Shred-Your-Stuff Saturday

Riverdale, Utah – (May 29, 2019) – On Saturday, June 1, America First Credit Union (AFCU) will be helping members of the community enhance their personal security during its Shred-Your-Stuff Saturday events.

All community members can bring their financial documents and personal information and personal information they want shredded and AFCU will take care of it at no cost.

The following AFCU locations will be participating from 9 a.m. to noon:

  • Clinton Branch – 1724 N 2000 W, Clinton, UT
  • Harrisville Branch – 358 North Harrisville Road, Harrisville, UT
  • Herriman Branch – 5438 W 13400 South, Herriman, UT
  • Orem Branch – 1356 S Main St., Orem, UT
  • Providence Macey’s Branch – 50 N Highway 165, Providence, UT

“AFCU’s mission is to help our members and the community achieve financial well-being, and shredding documents is an important part because identity theft could cost you,” said John Lund, President & CEO. “You should shred anything that has personal information like your name, address, phone number, social security number, or bank account information. This might include a few documents you don’t initially think about, including ATM receipts, credit card receipts, bills, and even used airline tickets.”

Individuals are allowed up to 5 boxes of materials at a time for shredding. If they have more, they’re allowed to get back in line for further service.

For additional information on America First Credit Union, visit americafirst.com, or follow America First on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

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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 127 locations, and is the 9th 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

Student Athletes Across Utah recognized and awarded by America First Credit Union, KJZZ and KMYU

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Student Athletes Across Utah recognized and awarded by America First Credit Union, KJZZ and KMYU Scholarship recipients gathered at annual Outstanding Scholar Athlete Banquet

Riverdale, Utah – (May 3, 2019) – As part of the America First Charitable Foundation, America First Credit Union recently recognized high school student athletes at the Outstanding Scholar Athlete Banquet. The event was held Friday, April 26 at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Throughout the 2018 -“ 2019 high school football season, America First, KJZZ and KMYU stations acknowledged local student athletes each week during the Thursday Night Lights and Friday Night Rivals games. Students were recognized for having a 3.5 GPA or higher, as well as for their outstanding citizenship and school involvement. This year, 22 high school seniors were awarded a $500 scholarship.

For additional information on America First Credit Union, visit  www.americafirst.com, or follow America First on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Photo attached:

Student Athletes

Scholarship recipients pose for a photo at the Outstanding Scholar Athlete Banquet in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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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 $11.1billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,021,000 members.

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

 

Get in Good Shape Online

Not only is spring a time when folks decide to exercise more regularly, it also presents a great opportunity to get your cyber security self in top shape. And we have a quick & easy workout to help guard against these constant threats.

  • Create complicated social media passwords using numeral-letter combinations, as well as special characters, for each platform. Having just one is an open invitation to criminals.
  • Don’t make phrases short and personal, such as using your pet’s name, birthdays, etc. You might be surprised at how much a hacker can discover about you.
  • Remember to change passcodes routinely, at least once a year. If may take a little time, but avoiding identity theft is worth it.
  • Tighten security settings—companies often alter privacy options or add options without letting you know.
  • Visit us here to see how we’re working to safeguard your information and financial resources.

America First Celebrates Eight Decades of Excellence in Credit Union Service

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

This year, America First held our Annual Meeting one month after the 80th anniversary of our founding—Fort Douglas Civilian Employees Credit Union was chartered on March 16, 1939.

Although our origins are humble, the 59 members who formed this cooperative had one simple yet powerful objective: helping each other improve their collective and individual financial well-being. For 80 years, America First has endeavored to build on this same focus, bringing the same passion for service and a commitment to provide the highest-quality products & services, in the most professional manner.

One of our most distinguishing characteristics is the volunteer Board of Directors who approve the strategy and focus of the organization. America First has nine outstanding board members who give tremendously of their time and talents, without compensation, to benefit the credit union. They are truly dedicated to improving the financial health of every member and we are fortunate to have them on our team.

At the Tuesday, April 16 Annual Meeting in Ogden, Utah, three highly qualified directors were approved to serve three-year terms: Barney B. Chapman, Kenlon W. Reeve and Michael W. Roden. Acting Board Nominations/Elections Committee Chair Linda Carver conducted the proceedings. The board subsequently voted on internal leadership roles, with Linda Carver serving as chair, Kenlon Reeve as vice chair, and John Spease as secretary. Our most sincere thanks are extended to Jim Wendler for his dedicated leadership and service as board chairman the last four years.

Our Loan Review and Supervisory Committees are also comprised of volunteers, all of whom are dedicated to delivering much-needed service & expertise. The Loan Review Committee—unique not only among financial institutions, but among credit unions—is an independent appeals avenue for members initially denied financing. The Supervisory Committee works with internal and external auditors to ensure fiscal and regulatory safety & soundness.

During his chairman’s message at the Annual Meeting, Mr. Wendler noted that the spirit, values and principles of integrity that drove the formation of America First have not changed in 80 years, nor would they change for generations of members to come. “This credit union remains a shining example of how people of diverse backgrounds but sharing a common purpose can form and operate an institution that serves their financial interests and plays a vital role in the communities in which it’s invested,” he said.

Indeed, we at America First strive each day to dedicate ourselves to uppermost standards, forward-thinking strategies, prudent financial management, and excellence in service. It’s therefore an honor to report that our credit union is strong, vibrant and well-positioned for the future. My utmost appreciation is offered to you, our valued members. We pledge our best efforts to maintain your trust in establishing a lifelong relationship.

America First Credit Union Opens New Branch in West Valley City

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

America First Credit Union Opens New Branch in West Valley City
Utah’s largest credit union opens new branch on Monday, April 29

Riverdale, Utah – (April 26, 2019) – Next week, Utah’s largest credit union, America First Credit Union, will open their newest branch in West Valley City, Utah. The West Valley branch located at 3253 West 3500 South, West Valley City, Utah 84120, was relocated in order to provide its members with an upgraded experience. The new branch will open their doors on Monday, April 29, 2019.

The new West Valley branch will hold an extended grand opening from Monday, April 29 through Saturday, June 1. Each day throughout April 29th – May 11th, America First Credit Union will be giving away a $50 Visa gift card. Members can enter the drawing once per day by stopping into the branch during the two-week period. Additionally, members can also enter a weekly drawing lasting through June 1. The gift basket is valued at more than $100 and includes an America First blanket, a $50 Megaplex gift card and a $50 dinner gift card. There will also be a kids weekly drawing that includes an America First branded piggy bank and a $25 America First Credit Union certificate towards a new youth account.

Ronise Skraznas will serve as service center manager of the new West Valley location. Ronise began her career with America First Credit Union 23 years ago as a teller and quickly moved up the ranks, managing several branches across Utah. Ronise serves on the Woman in Business Board for ChamberWest and graduated from the Leadership Institute program in 2018.

The West Valley branch is located 3253 West 3500 South, West Valley City, Utah 84120. Branch hours are 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For additional information on America First Credit Union and to view the scholarship application, visit www.americafirst.com, or follow America First on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

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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 $10.6 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,013,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

America First Charitable Foundation to Provide 80 Scholarships in Celebration of 80th Year

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

America First Charitable Foundation to Provide 80 Scholarships in Celebration of 80th Year
Scholarship applications are now open through May 31, 2019

Riverdale, Utah – (April 23, 2019) – Proudly serving members and communities for 80 years, the America First Charitable Foundation is pleased to announce they are providing 80 $1,000 scholarships to members. America First Credit Union has a strong emphasis on education and financial literacy, and the America First Charitable Foundation is looking for candidates who embody the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.”

In order to be eligible, members must be graduating high school seniors or undergraduate students currently enrolled in a two-year, four-year or technical college or university, and have a passion for serving and helping others. Scholarships will be awarded based on a student’s commitment to community service, as well as leadership and academic potential.

Scholarship submissions are due by May 31, 2019, and recipients will be notified by June 28, 2019. Applicants are required to submit their hours of community service, grade point average and current transcript. They must also submit a short essay on how their community service exemplifies the credit union philosophy of people helping people. A selection committee consisting of America First employees and representing a diverse business, education and community background will evaluate the applications and select the recipients.

For additional information on America First Credit Union and to view the scholarship application, visit www.americafirst.com, or follow America First on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

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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 $10.6 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,013,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

America First Credit Union Elects New Board of Directors at 80th Annual Meeting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

America First Credit Union Elects New Board of Directors at 80th Annual Meeting

Riverdale, Utah – (April 19, 2019) – On Tuesday, April 16, America First Credit Union held their 80th annual meeting. Members heard from James Wendler, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, and John Lund, President and CEO of America First Credit Union, as they gained insight on the financial state of the organization.

The following individuals were elected to the America First Credit Union Board of Directors.

• Kenlon Reeve
• Barney Chapman
• Mike Roden

The newly elected Board Officers include:

Chair: Linda Carver
Vice Chair: Kenlon Reeve
Secretary: John Spease

The newly appointed Chair of the Board of Directors, Linda Carver, served America First Credit Union in the same capacity from 2011 – 2014 and most recently held the role of Vice Chair from 2015 until Tuesday when she was re-elected as Chair of the Board of Directors.

For additional information on America First Credit Union, visit www.americafirst.com, or follow America First on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

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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 $10.6 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,013,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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

online statements

Easy, Earth-Friendly, Free: Online Statements

Most financial institutions, including America First, offer online statements. After all, paper versions fill your mailbox, clutter the counters and end up in the landfill.

To recognize Earth Day, considering cancelling your paper statements. With the online version, there’s no waiting for the mail—your information is available anytime, anywhere just by logging in to a secure account. Plus, online statements don’t get lost or delivered to the wrong address, and they guard against identity theft.

If instant access and added security weren’t enough, going paperless is also an environmentally conscious decision. Reducing unnecessary paper waste helps diminish the number of trees that need to be cut down annually. If everyone at all financial institutions got their statements exclusively online, we could help ensure our beautiful forests will be around for years to come.

America First makes switching easy:

  • Log in to online banking
  • Click the Other Services tab
  • Select Statement Preferences
  • Follow the brief instructions

Go paperless—it’s for your convenience, protection and better for your planet.

America First Credit Union to Elect Board of Directors at Annual Meeting

For Immediate Release:

America First Credit Union to Elect Board of Directors at Annual Meeting
80th annual event to be to be held at the David Eccles Conference Center on April 16

Riverdale, Utah – (April 9, 2019) – America First Credit Union will hold its 80th annual meeting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16 inside the David Eccles Conference Center. The meeting provides America First Credit Union members an opportunity to hear and gain insight on the financial state of the organization. Members will hear from the President and Chairman of the Board and have the ability to elect volunteers to serve on the Board of Directors. These dedicated and qualified individuals share their time, talents and efforts without compensation, making them part of America First’s unique cooperative, not-for-profit structure.

Members who cannot attend, in addition to those in attendance, are invited to follow America First on Twitter @AmericaFirst for a live stream of the annual meeting. During this stream, viewers are encouraged to ask questions and virtually participate in the event. This live-tweet format provides an additional opportunity for members to engage in the conversation.

For more information, visit www.americafirst.com. Find America First Credit Union on Facebook and Twitter or follow @AmericaFirst on Instagram and Pinterest.

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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 10th largest credit union in assets in the United States with over $10.6 billion, and the sixth largest credit union in membership in America with more than 1,013,000 members.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

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