As we celebrate this milestone during our “90 Days of Wellbeing¹”, we’re taking a moment to look back on our journey and reflect on the values that continue to shape our future.

From One Company to a Community

When Affinity was first chartered as W. Headquarters Federal Credit Union in 1935, the goal was simple, offer financial services to employees of a single company. Over time, as our membership expanded to include AT&T and other employee groups, our name and reach evolved too.

By the mid-1990s, we officially became Affinity Federal Credit Union, and our membership grew beyond just workplace affiliations. With the passing of the Credit Union Membership Access Act in 1998, we were able to welcome local organizations and broader communities into the fold, creating new ways for people to connect with cooperative banking.

Growing to Serve More Members

In the decades since, we’ve grown through strategic partnerships and mergers, including with Rutgers University Student and Alumni Federal Credit Union and NEA Federal Credit Union. Each of these moments allowed us to deepen our commitment to financial wellbeing while expanding access to more individuals and families.

We now operate branches across three states, with recent additions in Lawrenceville and White Plains helping us meet members where they are. While many financial institutions are closing local branches, we remain focused on presence, partnership, and relationships, both in person and online.

Staying True to Our Purpose

Affinity is more than a financial institution. We’re a not-for-profit cooperative, owned by our members and rooted in the belief that when our members do well, we all do well.

Over the past 90 years, we’ve worked to uphold that belief by listening to our members and creating products, services, and experiences that reflect their needs. Whether it’s opening a child’s first savings account or finding the right loan to start a new chapter, our goal is to build long-term financial wellbeing, not just for today, but for the future.

That focus on wellbeing extends to every corner of our organization. From digital tools that support easier money management to our Financial Wellbeing & Empowerment team, we’re here to offer guidance, education, and real help when it matters most.

Community Impact Is Part of Our DNA

Affinity’s commitment goes far beyond banking. Giving back has been part of who we are since the beginning, and our team shows up for our communities every day.

Through local partnerships, volunteer events, donation drives, and Foundation-led initiatives, we invest time and resources to support those around us. Whether it's helping a family through a tough season or partnering with a local nonprofit to expand impact, we believe in doing what we can to make life better for our members and neighbors.

And thanks to our Foundation and community events², our members get to join us in making a difference, too. It’s part of the ripple effect we believe in: when people feel supported, they’re empowered to support others.

Looking Ahead

Celebrating 90 years is a moment of pride, but it’s also a moment of clarity. We’ve come a long way, but our purpose hasn’t changed. Affinity exists to support our members, strengthen our communities, and promote financial wellbeing through every stage of life.

As we continue to grow, we’re focused on what matters most: trust, transparency, and building relationships that last. Whether we’re opening a new branch, rolling out new technology, or offering guidance during a challenging time, our members will always be at the center of everything we do.

Want to celebrate with us? Check out³ the many ways we’re marking this milestone with events, activities, and resources focused on your wellbeing.

This information is for informational purposes only, is intended to provide general guidance, and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Each person's circumstances differ and may not apply to the specific information provided. You should seek the advice of a financial professional, tax consultant, and legal counsel to discuss your particular needs before making any financial or other commitments regarding the matters related to your condition.

¹ Retrieved from: https://www.affinityfcu.com/about-us/90-day-wellbeing