The Greater Stark County Urban League and 7 17 Credit Union announce purpose-driven affinity card one day after Juneteenth

CANTON, OH (June 20, 2025) |

On the heels of Juneteenth—a day to honor freedom and reflect on the continued pursuit of equity—The Greater Stark County Urban League and 7 17 Credit Union today announced a powerful new partnership: the launch of a co-branded Affinity Credit Card that gives back to the community with every use.

Revealed at a press event this morning, the new Affinity Card will help fund programs led by the Urban League that support education, economic empowerment, and community advancement throughout Stark County. A portion of every transaction will be reinvested directly into initiatives that build stronger, more equitable futures.

“This Affinity Urban League card is more than a financial tool – it’s a symbol of shared purpose,” said Thomas West, President and CEO of the Greater Stark County Urban League. “Each transaction represents an investment in equity, access, and opportunity for our community.  We’re proud to partner with 7 17 Credit Union to turn everyday spending into lasting impact.

John Demmler, President and CEO of 7 17 Credit Union, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the initiative:

“At 7 17, we believe that banking should be about more than transactions—it should be about transformation. Partnering with the Urban League on this Affinity Card reflects our mission to serve with purpose. When you bank local, you build local. This is one more way we’re investing in the people and places that make our communities strong.”

Today’s announcement is a reflection of both organizations’ shared commitment to financial inclusion, purposeful partnerships, and building a more equitable future - together.