Mayor and city officials welcome Affinity Plus to new Baxter location
ST PAUL, MN (June 3, 2016) — On Tuesday, May 31, Baxter Mayor Darrel Olson, city officials and Affinity Plus members gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the credit union’s highly-anticipated new branch. Members of the Brainerd Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce participated in the event, as Affinity Plus bolsters the presence it has had in this community since 1971.
Noting recent and anticipated growth in Baxter, Mayor Olson spoke at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. He welcomed Affinity Plus to the new location and expressed the city’s eagerness to have a prominent new business move into this space.
“We have come a long way,” said Affinity Plus Director of Branch Services Wendy Peterson, who joined the credit union 20 years ago as a single employee working 10 hours a week out of a small office at the State Hospital in Brainerd. “Our growth signifies our commitment to members and to this community, and expanding into Baxter feels great. I love this branch and I love this community.”
The new location is Affinity Plus’ 28th branch in Minnesota, which is the largest credit union branch network in the state. The Baxter branch featuring a drive-thru, 24-hour drive-up ATM, and more space and offices, allows for access to more services, an improved member experience, and more privacy.
“We love to see our members, but we understand that for most, banking is another to-do,” said Keith Malbrue, Affinity Plus Chief Information Officer/Chief Administrative Officer. “We see banking as far less transactional and more about relationships and about advising our members.”
Recognizing the importance of investing in the Brainerd Lakes community, Affinity Plus recently sponsored a “Girls’ Night Out” hosted by a local radio station at the new branch within the last month. Additionally, the credit union is active in financial education, community betterment, student member advocacy and spreading kindness through volunteering and events like Plus It Forward throughout the year.
“You go to any other financial institution and they’re friendly. But you come to Affinity Plus, and they’re excited to see you,” said Affinity Plus member Lloyd Anderson. “That’s a big difference.”
For further information on the Affinity Plus Baxter branch, visit affinityplus.org.
About Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union
Based in St. Paul, Minn., Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit, financial cooperative that puts people first above profits. Members of Affinity Plus receive maximum value through competitive rates, minimal fees, and unique, member-centric products and programs. Established in 1930, Afinity Plus has 30 branches located throughout Minnesota and is owned by more than 230,000 members. Affinity Plus has over $3.5 billion in assets. Additional information is available at www.affinityplus.org or by calling (800) 322-7228.
