Affinity Plus FCU Supports American Red Cross

ST PAUL, MN (June 9, 2016) Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union and the American Red Cross Minnesota Region have collected more than 130 pints of blood at eight blood drives in the first five months of 2016. In the second half of 2016, the partners are planning 12 more drives at Affinity Plus branches throughout Minnesota, according to Dave Larson, Affinity Plus President/CEO. "We're honored the Red Cross and Affinity Plus can partner to do this vital work," Larson said, noting 2016 blood drives have been held in Faribault, Brainerd, Winona and Grand Rapids, Minn., and at three Twin Cities branches. "There probably isn't a more-tangible, life-giving way to demonstrate the people-helping-people' credit-union philosophy than donating blood. It brings us together as credit union members and community members," he said. �AFFINITY PLUS CHARITY OF CHOICE Affinity Plus' relationship with the American Red Cross Minnesota Region dates more than a decade, when the credit union selected it as a Charity of Choice in 2005. Each year since, members and employees have donated blood, cash or Affinity Plus Rewards Points points earned by banking with the credit union to the American Red Cross Minnesota Region. Members and employees also have had opportunities to contribute when, as an organization, Affinity Plus has offered monetary matches for Red Cross relief efforts and participated in sending holiday cards to overseas military members. AFFINITY PLUS RECEIVES 2016 RED CROSS AWARD The American Red Cross Minnesota Region has honored Affinity Plus for its partnership and community efforts. In March, Affinity Plus received a Bronze Partner award at the 2016 Celebration of Giving event in Minneapolis. The American Red Cross Minnesota Region's thanked the credit union for more than $17,000 in 2015 donations, along with its blood donations. On May 6^th, Affinity Plus representatives also attended the Red Cross' annual Heroes Breakfast, which celebrates extraordinary heroes and volunteers who carry out the Red Cross' mission in local communities. "The continuing support of Affinity Plus helps the Red Cross serve our neighbors in need, from hosting blood drives to providing support for families after disasters large and small," said Phil Hansen, CEO of the American Red Cross Minnesota Region. Further information about Affinity Plus and its partnership with The American Red Cross Minnesota Region is available on Affinity Plus' website.