FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn.–SPIRE Credit Union attracted more than 4,400 guests to its 86th Annual Meeting and Member Appreciation Day, which featured financial education sessions, a business meeting, and what it called inspiring performances.
SPIRE Credit Union said as guests arrived at the meeting site, Grace Church-Eden Prairie, by car or by one of 15 complimentary shuttle buses, they were given the opportunity to donate to SPIRE partner Family Pathways. Family Pathways reported food and cash donations provided more than 1,400 pounds of food to help support Family Pathways’ nine food shelves and their mobile food pantry.
“A record 400 people came early to attend a financial education session led by SPIRE experts,” the credit unions aid. “The sessions provided information of fraud prevention, being a savvy home seller, planning for your retirement, and understanding credit.”
Updates on CU Developments
During the business meeting portion of the event, President/CEO Dan Stoltz provided updates on how SPIRE experienced continued record asset and loan growth in 2019 and now services over 124,000 members.
“SPIRE is big enough to know how, but small enough to know you,” Stolz told the meeting.
He further told attendees SPIRE is spending the most it ever has on technology to provide better service to members, including an all-new digital banking platform providing a seamless experience across all devices.
SPIRE Chairman of the Board Tom Heinzen told the meeting 2019 was SPIRE’s, “best year ever, again,” and that during 2019 SPIRE merged in Energy Services Federal Credit Union and Electrus Federal Credit Union. SPIRE has expanded to 20 branch locations in Minnesota, double the number SPIRE had in 2010.
Patriotic Tribute
As a patriotic tribute to veterans, motivational chalk artist Bob Upgren created a special art piece, while after the business meeting, members of North America’s largest circus performing arts school, Circus Juventas, performed four acts.
Cash the Dog, the new SPIRE mascot, also made his first official appearance at the annual meeting. Cash had previously appeared in animated form alongside Dan Stoltz in two commercials.
The event concluded with every registered guest receiving $25 for attending.
“I continue to be so thankful for the loyalty of our members and the dedication of our SPIRE staff,” said Stoltz. “As we move into a new decade, I look to 2020 with great enthusiasm and excitement.”