Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union

Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, member-owned financial cooperative based in St. Paul, Minnesota. Founded in 1930, Affinity Plus started as a credit union for state employees, but has since expanded its membership eligibility to include anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Minnesota, as well as their immediate family members.

Today, Affinity Plus has over 200,000 members and 29 branches across Minnesota. It offers a wide range of financial products and services, including checking and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, mortgage, insurance, and investment options. Affinity Plus is also known for its exceptional customer service, innovative technology, and commitment to social responsibility.

One of the unique features of Affinity Plus is its member-ownership structure. Unlike traditional banks that are owned by shareholders and driven by profit, credit unions are owned by their members and exist to serve their financial needs. Members of Affinity Plus have a voice in the credit union’s decision-making process through their participation in annual meetings, voting on board of directors, and providing feedback on services.

Another advantage of being a member of Affinity Plus is the lower fees and competitive rates. Because credit unions are not-for-profit institutions, they can offer better rates on loans and higher earnings on savings than traditional banks. Affinity Plus also does not charge fees for basic services like checking accounts, debit cards, e-statements, and online banking.

Affinity Plus is also committed to giving back to the communities it serves. The credit union has a strong social responsibility program that focuses on three key areas: financial education, youth development, and community enhancement. Affinity Plus partners with local schools, non-profit organizations, and community groups to provide financial literacy workshops, scholarships, volunteer opportunities, and donations.

Some of the notable initiatives of Affinity Plus’s social responsibility program include the Plus One employee volunteer program, the Community Connection Scholarship program, and the Financial Counseling program. The Plus One program encourages employees to volunteer their time and skills to local organizations and gives them paid time off for doing so. The Community Connection Scholarship program awards $5,000 scholarships to high school seniors who demonstrate leadership and service in their communities. The Financial Counseling program provides free, confidential financial counseling to members who need help with budgeting, saving, debt management, and credit repair.

In addition to its social responsibility efforts, Affinity Plus is also a leader in digital banking innovation. The credit union has invested heavily in online and mobile banking technologies to provide members with convenient and secure access to their accounts anytime, anywhere. Affinity Plus’s mobile app allows members to check their balances, transfer funds, pay bills, deposit checks, and even apply for loans from their smartphones or tablets.

Affinity Plus has received numerous awards and recognitions for its outstanding performance, innovative products, and community involvement. Some of the notable awards include the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) Excellence in Technology Award, the Minnesota Business Ethics Award, the Star Tribune Top Workplace Award, and the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Anti-Racism Initiative Award.

In conclusion, Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union is a cooperative financial institution that puts its members first, promotes financial literacy, supports youth development, and enhances communities throughout Minnesota. If you are looking for a trusted, ethical, and socially responsible financial partner, consider joining Affinity Plus and experiencing the credit union difference.