Gesa Credit Union Partners with Selah School District to Launch Student-Run High School Credit Union and New Affinity Debit Card

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on February 16, 2026

Gesa Credit Union launched a partnership with Washington’s Selah School District in January to open a student-run High School Credit Union branch at Selah High School and offer a co-branded Affinity Debit Card. With each use of the Affinty card, Gesa members will help raise funds that directly support Selah High School’s academic programs, athletics, and extracurricular activities, at no additional cost.

“We are thrilled to partner with Gesa Credit Union to introduce Selah High School’s Affinity Debit Card and student-run credit union branch,” said Colton Monti, Selah High School Principal. “This collaboration not only strengthens our connection with the community but also creates real-world learning opportunities for our students. Every swipe of the affinity card directly supports student programs, leadership development, and financial education initiatives that prepare our Vikings for success beyond high school. This partnership demonstrates our shared dedication to investing in the next generation.”

The student-run branch will operate during school hours at Selah High School, giving students the opportunity to open accounts, make deposits and withdrawals, and experience an authentic credit union atmosphere. The branch will be staffed by student tellers and led by a paid student intern who serves as Campus Branch Manager — a position that provides professional development experience and a competitive edge for future employment.

“This partnership gives students hands-on experience in financial services,” said Brandon Allison, VP of Community Impact, Gesa Credit Union. “As our 25th high school credit union, Selah represents a major milestone in our commitment to financial education. We’ve seen the incredible impact these student-run branches have had across the region, developing future leaders and preparing students for college and career success, and we’re honored to bring that same positive change to Selah. We look forward to building lasting relationships with the community as we work together to support future generations.”

Since 2000, Gesa’s High School Credit Union Program has operated student-run branches across Washington, reaching thousands of students with real-world financial education. The program became the first Financial Sector Career Launch endorsed program in Washington State through Career Connect Washington in 2022, recognizing its success in preparing students for college and career readiness. Since its launch in 2015, Gesa’s Affinity Debit Card Program has generated more than $2.25 million for partner school districts and universities across the Pacific Northwest.

Gesa’s Co-Branded Affinity Debit Cards are available exclusively at Gesa Credit Union and are free to Gesa members with a checking account. For a full list of cards that support K-12 schools, colleges, and universities, Local Heroes, and more, visit www.gesa.com/product/affinity-cards/.

Posted in Financial Education, Regional Member News, Washington.