DIVERSITY, INCLUSION & BELONGING. HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2023 REPORT.
Many Voices, One Affinity Plus is our unwavering commitment to cultivating an inclusive culture where all voices matter.
Our journey in diversity, inclusion and belonging underscores our belief in a future where every employee and member feels valued and included. This is a cornerstone of our identity, which drives what we do — for employees and members.
As we reflect on our journey and envision the road ahead, we celebrate our differences, embrace our shared humanity, and deepen our understanding that we’re stronger together.
Celebrating Our Diversity
Hispanic Heritage Month
As we continue to recognize and honor diversity, we create space for team members to learn more about special observances and celebrations. During Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, we celebrated the history and culture of the U.S. Hispanic and Latinx communities.
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
This past year, our first two ERGs were formed to harness the power of employees in creating spaces to meet people where they are in life. ERGs support common interests and foster awareness, respect, and inclusion within the workplace. We formed the Elder Caregiver and LGBTQ+ groups as a way for employees to connect and offer a sense of belonging and support.
Investing In Our Communities
Can Do Canines
In 2022, we began a 3-year sponsorship with Can Do Canines to support their work to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. We recently adopted a litter of puppies who will become fully trained service dogs upon graduation.
Proudly Making a Difference at Pride.
Our new LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group led the planning for our presence at the 2023 Twin Cities Pride Festival in June. Over 20 employees handed out more than 2,000 promotional items to festival attendees. A concert ticket giveaway provided great interactions with members!
Joy Room for Kids Healing From Burn Trauma
With funding from Affinity Plus, the Joy Collaborative made a special “Joy Room” at the Firefighters for Healing Transitional Healing Center in downtown Minneapolis a reality. Firefighters for Healing assist children and families affected by burn trauma. The Joy Room is a fun sanctuary filled with engaging activities, gaming systems, and much more to provide a comforting space for kids.
Philanthropy Center at BizTown
We proudly revealed our new Philanthropy Center at Junior Achievement North’s BizTown in St. Paul. This space offers hands-on learning that teaches students what it takes to run a successful business and how to give back by doing some good in our communities.
Removing Barriers
New Midway Branch
We opened our new Midway branch in spring 2023 and became the only credit union in the neighborhood. All our staff at the Midway location are bilingual in Spanish or Tagalong, the language of the Philippines.
Tribal IDs Increase Financial Access
In July 2023, we enhanced our online account opening system to included tribal IDs as a valid form of identification for new members. This isn’t merely a policy change, it’s a significant move to empower and increase financial access to communities that are currently underbanked and underserved.
New American Loan Program
Our New American Loan Program offers loans up to $2,000 at no interest for permanent residents to help cover the cost of naturalization. In 2022 we introduced this loan to St. Paul residents, and we’re proud to now offer the loan to Minneapolis residents!
Have ideas?
If you have thoughts on how Affinity Plus can be an even stronger agent of financial equity, please share them.
Contact the Board
Please let our Board know your thoughts, concerns and ideas.
You may contact them by writing to:
Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union c/o Board of Directors
175 West Lafayette Frontage Road
St. Paul, MN 55107
Serve on the Board
We are currently not accepting applications for the Board, but if you're interested in serving, you'll have another opportunity.