Detroit Pistons’ Marvin Bagley III and Alec Burks partner with Michigan First Credit Union to surprise members with $80,000+ loan payoffs
LATHRUP VILLAGE, MI (January 4, 2024) — Michigan First Credit Union collaborated with Detroit Pistons players Marvin Bagley III and Alec Burks to create an unforgettable surprise for several members in need of financial relief after falling on hard times. At the Credit Union’s headquarters, randomly selected members enjoyed a Pistons-themed evening alongside Michigan First leadership and Pistons staff, featuring bowling, food and a meet-and-greet with Marvin Bagley III.
Bagley took the spotlight to announce a generous gesture: both he and teammate Alec Burks would pay off the members’ loans, amounting to over $80,000.
“The impact of these players’ actions on our members is immeasurable,” said Jennifer Glenfield, Chief Marketing Officer of Michigan First Credit Union. “It’s a life-changing gift for them.”
Michigan First, established in Detroit in 1926, has transformed members’ lives for nearly a century. Providing financial services and assistance to those in need has been part of the very spirit with which the Credit Union approaches business — especially lending, as the Credit Union often takes on more risk with unsecured loans and modest-means members.
“I am proud to be part of an organization that has such compassionate lending practices,” said Chief Lending Officer Jeff Fitrzyk, whose team played a key role in helping contact members that were chosen. “Our commitment to our members extends beyond what many financial institutions offer, particularly when they’re facing times of financial difficulty.”
Michigan First, a Certified Development Financial Institution (CDFI), actively provides banking access, financial education, and lending services to underserved communities. The credit union assists members facing challenges by guiding them through tough situations and offering pathways to consolidate debt, improve their finances, and help rebuild credit.
As the official Credit Union of the Detroit Pistons, Michigan First has collaborated on various community initiatives, including serving as the presenting sponsor of Pistons Math Hoops, a program fostering learning and teamwork among young students.
Glenfield, who was instrumental in securing the partnership, appreciates the Pistons’ dedication to community service, aligning with the Credit Union’s ethos of supporting Detroit.
“The Pistons’ commitment to community resonates with ours at the credit union. We’re thankful for this partnership that embodies the spirit of Detroit,” Glenfield said.
About Michigan First Credit Union
Founded in 1926, Michigan First Credit Union delivers world-class service to more than 168,000 members at 30 branches throughout Michigan. The Credit Union offers expanded financial solutions for every life stage through its Michigan First Mortgage and Michigan First Insurance Agency divisions and seeks to positively transform lives with the Michigan First Foundation. Currently the Credit Union possesses more than $1.5 billion in assets. To learn more about Michigan First Credit Union and its award-winning team, visit MichiganFirst.com
