BELLINGHAM, WA — WECU has officially launched its first-ever affinity debit card in partnership with the Bellingham Bells, giving members a new way to show community pride while supporting local youth baseball.

The new WECU Bells Card features an exclusive Bellingham Bells design and is available with WECU Spend Free and Spend Plus checking accounts.

Affinity cards are widely used throughout the financial industry, often tied to universities, sports teams, and community organizations. WECU’s new program marks the beginning of a broader affinity card initiative, with an additional community-focused design already planned.

“This card is about more than just a new design,” said Matt Berendsen, Senior Vice President for Growth at WECU. “It gives members a way to celebrate a hometown team while directly supporting opportunities for local kids to participate in youth baseball and softball.”

When members use their WECU Bells Card, funds are donated by the credit union to the Bells Community Foundation, which provides youth baseball scholarships and supports accessible baseball opportunities for beginner and younger athletes ages 3–12 throughout Whatcom County.

The Junior Bells Development Program is designed to expand participation in baseball by creating affordable, high-quality experiences that help young athletes develop skills and build confidence in the sport.

In addition to supporting youth baseball, cardholders receive exclusive Bells-related perks, including:

  • Buy-one-get-one general admission Bells tickets next season (2027) when presenting the card at the ticket window (this year, this benefit is for all WECU cardholders)
  • Five-times rewards points on purchases made at the ballpark*
  • A free bottled drink with the purchase of an entrée during the current season
  • A $50 Bells gift card for the first 100 new members who open a Bells Card this season**

New members can open an account by visiting any WECU branch or by scanning QR codes displayed at the stadium and on promotional materials. Existing members can request the card through Digital Banking by selecting “Tools & Alerts” and then “Change Card Designs,” or by visiting a branch.

Cards may be printed instantly at a branch for a $5 fee or mailed free of charge, with delivery typically within 14 days.

About WECU

WECU is a member-owned, not-for-profit credit union headquartered in Bellingham, Washington. WECU was founded in 1936 as the Bellingham Teacher’s Credit Union. Today, it serves over 170,000 members with more than $3.0 billion in assets. WECU is committed to enhancing the financial well-being of its members and making a positive impact in the communities it serves.

Disclosures:

*5× points on qualifying Bells purchases with a Spend Plus Checking Account. All other purchases earn 1 point per $20 spent. $1 minimum to open. See Member Rewards Terms and Conditions for details.

**Offer available to first 100 new members (not a member in the last 12 months) who open a new WECU Spend Plus or Spend Free Checking account beginning May 20, 2026. $1 to open. Membership eligibility required. Gift card will be sent via email within 7 business days of account opening. Bonus may be taxable.