The initiative celebrates New Jersey’s champions of financial, community, and physical wellbeing

Affinity Federal Credit Union (“Affinity”) announces the return of its Wellbeing Awards, an annual program recognizing individuals and organizations across New Jersey who demonstrate excellence in financial, community, and physical wellbeing. The initiative highlights the impactful efforts of local leaders and businesses who strengthen their communities through innovative and meaningful programs.

The awards are designed to celebrate and inspire efforts that make a meaningful difference in the wellbeing of New Jersey communities. Individuals and organizations across the state are encouraged to submit nominations highlighting innovative programs or resources that contribute meaningfully to financial, community, or physical wellbeing. The criteria for selection underscore impact, innovation, and commitment to improving the wellbeing of the community or individuals served.

“Every day, we see individuals and organizations across New Jersey stepping up to support financial wellbeing, community connection, and healthier lives,” said Kevin Brauer, CEO of Affinity Federal Credit Union. “The Wellbeing Awards are our way of recognizing those efforts and shining a light on the programs that are making a real difference. We’re proud to celebrate the people who are strengthening our communities in meaningful and lasting ways.”

The judging panel for the 2026 Wellbeing Awards includes:

• Pam Cohen, Chief Operating Officer, Affinity Federal Credit Union
• Grant Gallagher, Director, Financial Wellbeing & Brand Communications, Affinity Federal Credit Union
• Shawn Lubitz, VP, Retail Branches, Affinity Federal Credit Union
• Kelly Watts, Executive Director, Affinity Foundation
• Serena Collado, Director, Community Health, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset
• Paul Letson, Senior Managing Consultant, Gallup
• Darnell Hayes, SVP & Chief Operations Officer, Greater Somerset County YMCA

The nomination period for the Wellbeing Awards is February 16 - March 27. Category honorees will be announced in Spring 2026.

Affinity is partnering with global analytics and advisory firm, Gallup, leading New Jersey academic medical center, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset, and community-based nonprofit, Greater Somerset County YMCA, on the program.

For more information on the Affinity Wellbeing Awards, including nomination guidelines and criteria, please visit Affinity’s website.

About Affinity Federal Credit Union
Affinity Federal Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in New Jersey, proudly serving members with over 20 branches across the tri-state area. Ranked among the top 2% of all credit unions nationwide by asset size, Affinity offers a full range of banking, lending, and financial education resources designed to help members achieve lasting financial security. Guided by a mission to improve financial wellbeing, Affinity is a member-owned, community-focused institution built on the philosophy of people helping people, empowering individuals and families to reach their unique financial goals. Learn more at www.affinityfcu.com.

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