It is again my distinct pleasure to assess our collective performance in 2024, another successful year, as gains were made in all operational areas of America First Credit Union to benefit your experience.

We continue delivering new technology platforms, enhancing existing tools, making significant improvements in fraud prevention, and realizing growth in both membership and earnings.

America First opened our first branch in California and we’re now fortunate to serve fellow members in six western states. While composing this message,  I was contemplating how expanding to provide higherquality products to a more substantial base has become a commonplace expectation, perhaps taken for granted.

Further analysis demonstrated why our annual reports are so positive and the idea is not to be considered lightly—it’s because of the Herculean efforts and unwavering dedication of our team working behind the scenes to develop state-of-theart services. Despite changing economic and political environments, we will always remain committed to our mission of finding innovative solutions to tackle what’s next. Our assets, deposits, loans, reserves and membership flourished, making it possible to invest in a more convenient and effective present and future.

We maintained high satisfaction ratings across delivery channels and invested in cyber-security defenses. Mobile app and online offerings were upgraded with elevated capabilities. Our philosophy is geared to ensure you, the members, feel comfortable in accessing information, resources, and tools to improve financial health. Brick-and-mortar branches provide personalized care and are an invaluable asset. At the same time, technological advances help drive anytime, anywhere access. It is important we take a positive approach, prioritize simplicity, and demonstrate value. The achievements of last year allow us to continue seeking upgrades as time goes on.

Financial statements tell the story of America First’s accomplishments, but what is not written in that data is the impact we have on the communities served. It is truly an endless list of hours, teaching opportunities, and significant donations to lift others.

When asked why I serve on the America First Board of Directors, a volunteer position, the answer is quick: I have a front-row seat to see thousands of employees serving hundreds of thousands of members. We go to schools, foodbanks, hospitals and other charitable events to offer a helping hand.

America First is here for you in ways that are extremely difficult to adequately describe. There is so much being undertaken, activities for which we do not seek publicity, but which have given us immeasurable reward. To be part of such a cohesive group in charitable endeavors, from contributing shoes to schoolchildren, to delivering food to the less fortunate, to funding scholarships, is beyond humbling. My life is enriched to watch families who would otherwise go without receive necessary assistance. I am a firm believer in the motto ‘the more you give, the more you get,’ and I can earnestly say this is one of the keys to our shared prosperity.

I want to celebrate and thank the leadership team and each and every staff member who has been essential to unrivaled progress. You make the difference.

Thanks to the solid foundation we proudly inherited and careful planning, we’re steadfast and ready to face whatever challenges are on the horizon. America First is unwavering in our singular focus on members.  We wish to earn your trust, appreciate your loyalty,  and will not let you down.