Lansing-based organization is two-time winner
LANSING, Mich. — LAFCU is proud to announce that it has been named one of the Best Credit Unions to Work For in 2024 by American Banker. This is the second time LAFCU has received this prestigious recognition, which highlights credit unions that excel in workplace culture, employee satisfaction, and overall business influence. LAFCU is among 30 credit unions nationwide recognized this year in the largest asset category, which includes credit unions with more than $1 billion in assets.
The Best Credit Unions to Work For program was established to identify and celebrate outstanding employers in the credit union industry. The selection process includes an assessment of workplace policies and practices, accounting for 25% of the evaluation, and an employee survey measuring staff satisfaction, which makes up the remaining 75%. The final rankings are based on the combined results of these two factors.
"Being named a Best Credit Union to Work For once again is an incredible honor that reflects our commitment to fostering a culture that actively engages the staff in every aspect of our organization," said Patrick Spyke, CEO of LAFCU. "From product development and DEIJ initiatives to our employee recognition program through HR, we are intentionally building an environment where every team member has a voice. This recognition shows that our success is a direct result of our team's dedication and the collaborative spirit we’ve cultivated together."
LAFCU’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace is highlighted by initiatives such as its Employee Appreciation Day. On this special day in 2023, every employee, including those working remotely, received a personalized gift and a handwritten note from their manager expressing gratitude for their contributions. One memorable gift included a tiny sheep figure with the words “Thank ewe” and personalized candy with uplifting messages like “when you need a little encourage-mint.” The thoughtful gesture has had a significant impact on staff morale, underscoring LAFCU’s dedication to creating a work environment where every employee feels valued and appreciated.
LAFCU took employee engagement to a new level by announcing the Best Credit Union to Work For award to all team members during its All Staff Day held Oct. 14, 2024. As a surprise gesture, the credit union presented each employee with a $500 bonus, further reinforcing the organization’s commitment to recognizing employee contributions and promoting a positive workplace culture. The All Staff Day brought together close to 160 employees, making the award announcement a shared moment of pride and appreciation across the organization.
As one employee described their experience at LAFCU:
“Since I first started here, I have continuously felt not just valued or respected, but understood. I have yet to meet an employee that has not done their level best at every opportunity or done anything less than treat others with respect and dignity. LAFCU has the best culture of any workplace I have ever been a part of.”
Best Companies Group managed the overall registration, survey process, and data analysis to determine the rankings. For more information about the Best Credit Unions to Work For program, visit American Banker.
About LAFCU
Founded in 1936, LAFCU (pronounced laugh-cue) is a not-for-profit, member-owned credit union open to all who live, work, worship or attend school in Michigan, and to Michigan businesses. LAFCU serves more than 74,000 members and holds over $1 billion in assets. With a particular focus on serving people of modest means, LAFCU is committed to enhancing its members' financial well-being and creating long-lasting positive change across generations. Awarded the prestigious Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Community Service Award, LAFCU is known for its people-helping-people mission, which has led to award-winning financial literacy programs for all ages. Twice honored as a national ‘Best Credit Union to Work For’ and recognized globally for its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, LAFCU stands out for its commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. Learn more at www.lafcu.com.
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Photo captions
1-LAFCU All Staff Meeting.jpg — The LAFCU team gathered for the All Staff Day event Oct. 14, 2024, where the announcement of the Best Credit Union to Work For award was made. Each team member received a $500 bonus as part of the celebration.
2-LAFCU Shields Up.jpg — LAFCU employees participate in internal training related to cybersecurity and fraud prevention, called Shields Up! The series included videos featuring employees as well as quiz contests. The first phase of Shields Up! won the Innovation Award from the Michigan Credit Union League in 2023.
3-LAFCU I am LAFCU Video.jpg — LAFCU employees featured in the "I am LAFCU" video, highlighting the organization's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ). Initially created for internal use, the video was showcased during the Super Bowl, enhancing LAFCU's reputation as an inclusive employer.
