Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union Helps Raise $785,000 for Special Olympics Minnesota
New “kick start” campaign spurs 2,200 Minnesotans to take the Polar Plunge
ST. PAUL, MINN. (March 29, 2022) – Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union (Affinity Plus) is proud to announce that the company will be making a donation of more than $110,000 to Special Olympics Minnesota’ in support of its annual Polar Plunge. This donation is in response to a successful campaign in partnership with FOX 9 that offered a unique incentive aimed at increasing participation and awareness in this annual event.
Affinity Plus provided a $50 donation toward fundraising efforts for all Plungers from across the state who registered using a unique promo code. The $50 was part of a ‘kick start’ campaign, which ultimately helped generate more than 2,200 sign-ups for the Polar Plunge. Over half of the Plungers using the ‘kick start’ promotional code were new to the Plunge, exposing more people to the inclusion movement. Those Plungers went on to collectively raise $785,000 for the cause.
“We are proud supporters of Special Olympics Minnesota, and enjoy partnering each year for the ever-successful Polar Plunge,” said Dave Larson, President and CEO of Affinity Plus. “We stand by the organization’s mission and align with its cause and willingness to spread kindness. I am always blown away by the support and willingness to give by our employees, members and those in the communities we serve. Every dollar raised counts, and we recognize how much of an impact Polar Plunge has on the state of Minnesota.”
The Polar Plunge is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Special Olympics Minnesota. All funds raised by Plungers help Special Olympics Minnesota provide year-round training and services to thousands of individuals with intellectual disabilities across the state.
Special Olympics Minnesota’s mission is for people with intellectual disabilities to transform themselves, their communities, and the world through athletic, health and leadership programs.
“Affinity Plus is one of the strongest partners we have here in Minnesota,” said Special Olympics Minnesota President & CEO Dave Dorn. “In a year where uncertainty was still in the air, the kick-start campaign helped us launch into a successful Plunge season. The Affinity Plus family of leaders, employees and members are not only great supporters of the Plunge, but wonderful advocates of inclusion, which is what Special Olympics is all about. As we move into a new season, the support we receive from Affinity Plus will help our athletes to get back to the sports they love!”
In addition to the kick start promotion, 160 Affinity Plus employees in communities across the state also personally participated in the Polar Plunge, raising an additional $57,000 for the charity.
Dave Larson, President and CEO of Affinity Plus, was named the 2022 Board Chair of Special Olympics Minnesota. Larson has volunteered in fundraising and leadership roles with Special Olympics Minnesota for nearly 14 years.
To learn more about what Affinity Plus does for the communities it serves, please visit our impact section of our website.
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, Affinity Plus has 30 branches located throughout Minnesota and is owned by more than 250,000 members. Affinity Plus has more than $4 billion in assets. Additional information is available at www.affinityplus.org or by calling (800) 322-7228.
