Press
Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union volunteers feed the hungry through the Grand Rapids Community Café
ST. PAUL, MN (July 8, 2015) — This week, Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union began a new ongoing partnership with the Community Café in Grand Rapids, a local non-profit dedicated to building stronger communities by reducing hunger. Every Tuesday and Thursday night the Café provides free, healthy meals to those who may be going through any sort of hardship.
Beginning June 30, Affinity Plus has committed a volunteer workforce to serve food at the Community Café every five weeks, working in rotation with other area businesses and organizations. Duties include food preparation, serving and clean-up.
“This work is important because the need is great – both to provide food and to help people form connections and relationships,” said John Weber III, Affinity Plus’ Grand Rapids Member Relations Manager. Weber is also the Executive Director of the Community Café, a position he has held for six years.
“The missions of the credit union and the Café are intertwined, because both organizations are concerned with the health and well-being of the Grand Rapids community and the dignity of its citizens,” he added.
The Community Café has two locations in Itasca County, which includes Grand Rapids and Deer River. It is funded entirely from grants, three fundraising events, and donations from generous local businesses and residents.
“Affinity Plus is committed building strong relationships in the communities it serves, and this new partnership gives us an opportunity to come alongside an existing organization to meet a need,” said President/CEO Dave Larson. Affinity Plus has two branch offices and call center located in Grand Rapids.
In addition to community volunteerism, Affinity Plus employees are well-known for their financial education efforts around the state. Specifically in Grand Rapids, Affinity Plus teaches personal finance through its numerous connections, including the Hope House, Grace House, Habitat for Humanity, Circles of Support, and Grand Rapids High School.