Lafayette Federal Credit Union announces landmark multi-year partnership with D.C. United. Last update: February 24, 2026 in Press WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 24, 2026) - D.C. United today announced a multi-year partnership with Lafayette Federal Credit Union, designating the institution as the exclusive credit union of D.C. United. The agreement represents a significant investment in the club, its supporters, and the broader Washington metropolitan community. The partnership introduces a series of community-driven initiatives and exclusive member-focused benefits designed to strengthen the connection between Lafayette Federal, its members, D.C. United, and fans across the District, Maryland, and Virginia. Lafayette Federal Credit Union and D.C. United will jointly launch Financial Literacy Through Sport, a new educational platform featuring three dedicated sessions each year. These programs will connect the business of professional soccer with essential financial topics such as budgeting, digital banking, and saving, equipping youth and families with practical tools to support long-term financial well-being. The Credit Union will also serve as the presenting sponsor of D.C. United's annual Community Day. The event will include a free community soccer clinic led by D.C. United players, coaches, and executives, as well as an on-site financial literacy workshop hosted by Lafayette Federal. Additional interactive experiences will celebrate and uplift local families and supporters. "For more than 90 years, Lafayette Federal Credit Union has proudly served the Washington, D.C., community," said B. John Farmakides, President and CEO of Lafayette Federal Credit Union. "Partnering with D.C. United, a club with such a passionate and locally grounded fan base, is a natural extension of our mission. Together, we are committed to creating meaningful community impact through financial education, youth programming, and accessible opportunities for families across the DMV." D.C. United emphasized the alignment between the organizations' shared values and long-term vision. "We are excited to welcome Lafayette Federal Credit Union as our exclusive credit union and a key partner in our efforts to unite sport and community," said Danita Johnson, President of Business Operations for D.C. United. "Their longstanding presence in the District, their commitment to community investment, and their strength as a leading financial institution make them an ideal partner. The initiatives we are launching together will have a lasting and positive impact on our region." Lafayette Federal Credit Union is recognized as one of the strongest and most established credit unions in the Washington metropolitan area, serving members for more than nine decades with branches across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. The institution is widely regarded for its financial stability, industry leadership, and commitment to member service. As part of the partnership, Lafayette Federal Credit Union will receive prominent brand visibility throughout Audi Field, including Gate A signage and concession-wrap integrations. About Lafayette Federal Credit Union Lafayette Federal Credit Union is a leading financial institution serving the Washington, D.C. area and across the U.S. Since its founding in 1935, Lafayette Federal has been dedicated to providing comprehensive financial services and offering a variety of products and services, including savings and checking accounts, loans, mortgages, and investment solutions. With assets over $2 billion and more than 56,000 members worldwide, Lafayette Federal operates 11 full-service branch offices in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and offers global access via the shared branch/ATM network and 24/7 electronic services. The credit union focuses on delivering top-notch member experiences and Lafayette Federal is committed to helping individuals and communities reach their financial goals. To learn more, visit lfcu.org. About D.C. United One of the founding clubs of Major League Soccer in 1996, D.C. United is among the most decorated teams in the United States with 13 domestic and international trophies. D.C. United has called the District home for the last 30 seasons and plays their home games at Audi Field in the Buzzard Point neighborhood of Southwest, Washington, D.C, which opened in 2018. In addition to D.C. United games, the 20,000-seat soccer-specific stadium hosts over 100 events year-round. The Black-and-Red trains at the United Performance Complex, a state-of-the-art training facility and performance center located in Leesburg, Va. The 40,000 square foot 30-acre training facility, that opened in 2021, features four outdoor practice fields, and a training center equipped with a weight room and recovery facilities. The Black-and-Red have won the MLS Cup four times (1996, 1997, 1999 and 2004), the Supporters' Shield four times (1997, 1999, 2006 and 2007) and the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup three times (1996, 2008 and 2013). For more information and club updates, please visit www.dcunited.com and find Lafayette Federal Credit Union on social media @dcunited.

Lafayette Federal's 2026 Financial Wellness Week: building stronger financial futures. Last month, Lafayette Federal Credit Union reaffirmed its commitment to member-centered financial guidance by hosting its annual Financial Wellness Week. Designed to proactively connect members with personalized financial advice, the week-long initiative demonstrated that thoughtful planning, flexibility, and consistent outreach can deliver meaningful impact - even when unexpected challenges arise in the form of several inches of ice blanketing its region the weekend before the event. Purpose and goals. Its primary goal for Financial Wellness Week is to engage with members and encourage them to schedule individual financial wellness appointments. Its branch staff reached out in advance to initiate conversations about savings strategies, certificates of deposit (CDs), IRAs, trust accounts, and broader financial planning needs. Lafayette Federal Credit Union wanted to create an opportunity for members to learn more about these products and the services Lafayette Federal Credit Union offer that can help them reach their goals. Appointments with members were scheduled throughout the week of January 26 - 30, 2026, giving them dedicated time to discuss their immediate priorities and long-term goals. Weather challenges - and a flexible response. A significant snowstorm created unexpected hurdles. All its branches were closed on Monday and Tuesday because of safety and access issues, and resident mobility in the entire DMV area remained limited for much of the week. Appointments that were scheduled for Monday and Tuesday were promptly rescheduled, minimizing disruption for members. By Wednesday, branch staff followed up with remaining scheduled members to confirm their availability, adjust schedules as needed, and ensure that no one felt overlooked. This consistent communication proved critical. Rather than canceling this key event intended to help its members' financial wellness, or reducing its scope, its team adapted in real time - demonstrating resilience and its deep commitment to member service. To this end, wellness week was extended 2 business days (through February 3rd) to devote a full week to this important event. Coffee, doughnuts, and other treats were on hand to welcome everyone and make them feel relaxed. Members who were able to attend participated in meaningful discussions, and many who could not attend because of complications left by the storm were successfully rescheduled for later in the week or in the weeks that followed. Despite the challenges served up by the unprecedented storm, Financial Wellness Week 2026 successfully highlighted the value of one-on-one financial conversations, the importance of trusted local institutions, and the long-term benefits of relationship-based financial services. Best of all, the severity of the storm served enabled Lafayette Federal Credit Union to demonstrate the many ways LFCU offers value through its expanding community presence, the dedicated outreach of its staff, and the beneficial products Lafayette Federal Credit Union offer its members. Lafayette Federal empowers its members. Financial Wellness Week reflects Lafayette Federal Credit Union's broader mission: empowering members with knowledge, confidence, and personalized support. In an environment where financial decisions are increasingly complex, access to trusted, face-to-face guidance remains invaluable. Its 2026 event proved success is not measured solely by attendance numbers. Meaningful engagement, sustained follow-up, and member appreciation are equally - if not more - important indicators of impact. By continuing to invest in financial education, proactive communication, and one-on-one guidance, Lafayette Federal Credit Union is helping members build stronger financial foundations - one conversation at a time. For members seeking clarity, confidence, and a trusted financial partner, Financial Wellness Week is more than an event. It's a commitment. And, you don't have to wait until next year to get your financial check-up. Schedule an appointment with Lafayette Federal Credit Union and let's talk about how Lafayette Federal Credit Union can help you meet your financial goals. Not a Lafayette Federal member yet? You can become a member by completing an online membership application.

John Gagliardi joins Lafayette Federal Credit Union as SVP Wealth Management. Role will see him lead and expand recently announced Lafayette Private Wealth Rockville, MD - Lafayette Federal Credit Union is pleased to announce the appointment of John Gagliardi as Senior Vice President, Wealth Management. Gagliardi brings nearly 40 years of financial services industry experience to the credit union, having previously held positions at SunTrust Investment Services, Citigroup, and Bank of America amongst others. Most recently, Gagliardi held the position of Regional Manager of Wilmington Advisors at M&T Bank where he managed 24 financial advisors in Washington, DC, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. During his 11-year tenure with M&T Bank, he developed personalized financial strategies to aid his clients in meeting their unique needs and long-term objectives, as well as mentored his team to support their own clients in achieving success. In his new role as SVP Wealth Management, Gagliardi will also serve as program manager for Lafayette Private Wealth, the credit union's recently launched wealth management program with Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. With his broad background overseeing successful teams of advisors and building strong wealth management strategies, Gagliardi will bring to the credit union's members expanded services, enhanced resources, and a focus on a personalized approach from Lafayette Private Wealth's team of trusted professionals. Lafayette Private Wealth will include services such as estate planning and tax planning. "We are thrilled to welcome John to our senior leadership team at Lafayette Federal Credit Union," stated President and CEO B. John Farmakides. "His deep industry expertise, combined with a genuine passion for working closely with clients, understanding their unique financial situations, and crafting personalized plans to help them achieve their goals, aligns perfectly with our mission to empower members throughout every stage of life." John Gagliardi holds his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Salem University in Salem, West Virginia and was honored with the Chairman's Club Award in 2018, 2019, and 2023. About Lafayette Federal Credit Union. Lafayette Federal Credit Union is a leading financial institution serving the Washington, D.C. area and across the U.S. Since its founding in 1935, Lafayette Federal has been dedicated to providing comprehensive financial services and offering a variety of products and services, including savings and checking accounts, loans, mortgages, and investment solutions. With assets over $2 billion and more than 56,000 members worldwide, Lafayette Federal operates 11 full-service branch offices in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia and offers global access via the shared branch/ATM network and 24/7 electronic services. The credit union focuses on delivering top-notch member experiences and Lafayette Federal is committed to helping individuals and communities reach their financial goals. About Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, and are not insured by bank insurance, the FDIC or any other government agency, are not deposits or obligations of the bank, are not guaranteed by the bank, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal. Investment Advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Lafayette Federal Credit Union and Lafayette Private Wealth are not registered broker/dealers and are independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal advice.