Bay Federal Makes a Big Splash with Marina Branch Grand Opening Donating $80,000 to Nonprofits
Marina, CA – September 25, 2025 - Bay Federal Credit Union celebrated the grand opening of its new Marina branch with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the occasion by presenting $80,000 in donations to four nonprofits strengthening the Central Coast community. The Credit Union awarded $20,000 each to The Epicenter, Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay, Veterans Transition Center of California, and The Wahine Project, supporting their ongoing work to create opportunity, stability, and connection for local residents.
The donations reflect Bay Federal’s ongoing commitment to the Central Coast community and align with the credit union mission of “people helping people.”
- The Epicenter empowers at risk and system involved youth, helping them build stability, pursue education, and explore career opportunities.
- Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay expands opportunities for affordable housing across the Monterey Bay region, building homes and stronger futures for local families.
- Veterans Transition Center of California supports veterans and their families with housing, counseling, and services, ensuring stable futures here at home.
- The Wahine Project empowers young people to connect with the ocean, building confidence and a sense of belonging through surfing and mentorship programs.
“This donation is a way to celebrate our new Marina branch while giving back to organizations that make a real difference in people’s lives every day,” said Carrie Birkhofer, President and CEO of Bay Federal Credit Union. “Our members and employees care deeply about the communities we serve, and supporting these nonprofits is one more way we can help strengthen our neighborhoods and create opportunities for growth.”
The Marina branch, located at 140 10th Street, Suite 20, expands Bay Federal’s footprint in Monterey County and provides a full range of banking services, including personal and business accounts, mortgage lending, and financial education programs. The grand opening ribbon-cutting included local community members, business leaders, and nonprofit representatives, highlighting the strong connections Bay Federal maintains across the region.
About Bay Federal Credit Union
Bay Federal Credit Union is a full-service, not-for-profit financial institution that serves over 94,000 members and 2,700 local businesses and nonprofit organizations throughout Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties. With more than $1.7 billion in assets, Bay Federal is the largest member-owned financial institution in the region. The organization has been proudly serving its members and the community since 1957. Bay Federal is a certified Community Development Financial Institution, with a primary mission of promoting community development alongside their financial activities. Bay Federal has an award-winning employee volunteer program in which employees have given their own money and volunteer for numerous local schools, nonprofit organizations, and community events each year.
Contact: Mark Ely, SVP, Chief Marketing Officer
Bay Federal Credit Union
831.477.8608
mely@bayfed.com
