Affinity Credit Union has been designated a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, a status awarded to mission-driven financial institutions committed to expanding economic opportunity in underserved and low-income communities. The certification makes Affinity eligible for federal grants and funding to support expanded initiatives in Central Iowa, including financial education, homeownership and small business development programs. “This designation reinforces who we’ve always been,” Jeremy Smith, CEO of Affinity Credit Union, said in a prepared statement. “Affinity was founded to serve hardworking individuals and families, and becoming a certified CDFI strengthens our ability to continue building better lives throughout our community.”