Press
Affinity Plus honors veterans
Credit union designates veteran parking spots, attends hiring fairs, and employs veterans.
ST. PAUL, MN (May 22, 2015) — Memorial Day reminds people in our country that freedom isn’t free; it is a day for us to memorialize, remember, and thank our veterans and their families who have made selfless sacrifices so that we may know freedom.
But it’s just one day – and the lives of people who have made it their duty to maintain our freedom should be honored each and every day.
A couple of weeks ago, the buzz among members and employees at Affinity Plus was about new designated parking spots at the credit unions headquarters with a sign that reads, “Veteran Parking Only”. The two parking spots are in the front row, symbolizing the VIP status the organization believes veterans deserve.
“I was pleasantly surprised to see it was veterans only parking,” shares Fernando N., a member of the credit union who is an active member of the air force. Running a few minutes late for closing on his home, Fernando pulled into the credit union’s parking lot and noticed open spots in the front row. As he pulled up to them, he discovered they were special spots designated for those who serve or have served our country.
“This project was inspired by our members and employees who are veterans,” shares Dave Larson, President and CEO. “They are our nation’s heroes, and this is a simple way for us to show our appreciation for their sacrifice.”
Affinity Plus has been committed to hiring veterans in various positions throughout the organization, and currently has several veterans and active military members who are employees.
“Applicants who are currently serving in the military, or have served, consistently demonstrate unique qualities making them valuable hires such as excellent problem solving skills and the ability to work on a team, commitment and dedication, adaptability and follow-through,” shares Wendy Berry, human resources generalist and recruiter.
In February, employees from the credit union’s human resources department attended a career fair offered to veterans, active duty military members, guard and reserve members, and military spouses with the purpose of sharing information about current job openings and the message that Affinity Plus hires veterans.
“We want veterans and those who are currently serving to know our employee culture and environment is welcoming to veterans which is demonstrated by the number of veterans and active military currently employed by Affinity Plus,” shares Berry.
“On behalf of Affinity Plus, I want to wish all veterans and their families a happy Memorial Day,” states Larson.
Information about Affinity Plus can be found online at affinityplus.org.
Photos: Veterans parking sign and Affinity Plus employees who are veterans or active military.
About Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union
Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit cooperative that puts people first above profits. We are committed to empowering consumers – for knowledge, for understanding and to know there are alternatives that focus on the success of people, not the bottom line. Members of Affinity Plus receive maximum value through competitive rates, minimal fees, and unique, member –centric products and programs. Affinity Plus is the largest credit union in Minnesota with state-based assets and has 27 branches located throughout the state. With more than $1.7 billion in assets, Affinity Plus is based in St. Paul and is owned by more than 180,000 members. Through a broad range of eligibility criteria, almost anyone can become a member of Affinity Plus. Additional information is available at www.affinityplus.org or by calling 800-322-7228.