Employee feedback highlights credit union’s commitment to belonging, support and a people-first culture
LANSING, Mich. — LAFCU, a Michigan-based credit union, has been recognized as a 2026 Inclusive Workplace by Best Companies Group. The designation highlights LAFCU’s commitment to fostering an environment where employees feel valued, respected and empowered to succeed.
The recognition is based entirely on employee feedback. Best Companies Group surveyed LAFCU employees using a comprehensive assessment focused on inclusivity, belonging and workplace culture, incorporating both quantitative ratings and employee comments to evaluate how employees experience the organization.
Results from the survey reflect strong engagement and trust across the organization:
· 88% said the credit union believes in investing in all of its people.
· 84% agreed that LAFCU values their unique backgrounds and experiences.
· 83% of employees agreed that LAFCU provides an environment for the free and open expression of ideas, opinions and beliefs.
“As an Inclusive Workplace honoree, LAFCU demonstrates leadership in fostering belonging, respect and opportunity for its employees,” said Jaime Raul Zepeda, executive vice president of Best Companies Group. “LAFCU and the other honorees excel at creating cultures where people feel valued, supported and empowered to thrive. We are proud to certify this honor recognizing LAFCU for intentionally listening to its workforce and putting inclusivity at the center of its workplace.”
The Inclusive Workplace recognition adds to LAFCU’s growing list of workplace honors. The credit union has been recognized three times as a Best Credit Union to Work For and has also been named a Best Place to Work for Women — distinctions that further reinforce its commitment to cultivating a culture where employees feel inspired, engaged and supported.
“Being named an Inclusive Workplace affirms what we strive for every day — a culture where people feel supported, heard and respected,” said Patrick Spyke, CEO of LAFCU. “When employees feel a strong sense of belonging, they are better able to collaborate, innovate and provide exceptional service to our members. This recognition reflects the voices of our employees and the culture we continue to build together.”
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. A three-time honoree as a national ‘Best Credit Union to Work For,’ named a Best Place to Work for Women, 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
1-2024 Multicultural Day.jpg – LAFCU employees and their families came together during the credit union’s internal Multicultural Day, celebrating traditions, sharing stories and enjoying cultural cuisine — a reflection of LAFCU’s commitment to fostering belonging, respect and connection in the workplace.
2- 2025 Heritage Fest.jpg — Inspired by its employee-led Multicultural Day, the credit union launched LAFCU Heritage Fest, a free community celebration featuring cultural music, food and entertainment. The event brought the Greater Lansing community together and showcased the credit union’s people-first, inclusive values beyond its workplace walls.
