LITTLETON, Mass.–Workers Credit Union has announced a partnership with former Boston Bruins goaltender Tuukka Rask that will include advertising, community appearances and other promotional activities, with the two organizations citing their shared Finnish heritage as a foundation for the relationship.
According to the $2.4-billion credit union, Rask, who spent his entire 15-year NHL career with the Bruins before retiring in 2022, will participate in special events, advertising campaigns, community advocacy efforts and social media initiatives.
Both Rask and Workers Credit Union have ties to Finland. Rask was born in Savonlinna, Finland, while the credit union was founded in 1914 by Finnish immigrants seeking to improve financial opportunities for their community.
“Tuukka’s cultural connection with Workers Credit Union makes him a natural fit for our credit union,” said Jay Champion, president and CEO of Workers Credit Union.
“Tuukka and Workers also share the same strong work ethic. It made him the winningest goalie in Bruins history, and it has helped Workers support our members and communities for more than 110 years,” Champion added.
Champion said the partnership is intended to help the credit union expand its reach to existing and prospective members.
Rask’s Massachusetts Connection
Rask, who has remained in Massachusetts since retiring from professional hockey, said the partnership reflects his personal connection to the region.
“Like the Finns who founded Workers Credit Union, I have chosen Massachusetts as a permanent home for me and my family,” Rask said. “I look forward to working with Workers Credit Union, getting to know their members, and supporting their communities and causes.”
During his NHL career, Rask established himself as one of the most successful goaltenders in Bruins history.
His accomplishments include:
- Setting Bruins franchise records with 308 regular-season victories and 564 games played.
- Winning the Stanley Cup as a member of Boston’s 2011 championship team.
- Receiving the Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s top goaltender in 2014.
- Helping Finland win a bronze medal at the 2014 Winter Olympics.
Credit Union’s Finnish Roots
Workers Credit Union traces its origins to John Suominen, a Finnish immigrant who owned a printing company in Fitchburg, Mass., and was concerned about the financial well-being of fellow immigrants.
The institution was established in 1914 and has since grown into one of the country’s oldest credit unions, according to Workers.
Today, the Littleton-headquartered credit union reports approximately $2.4 billion in assets and nearly 122,000 members.
Workers Credit Union is also certified as a Community Development Financial Institution and holds a low-income designation, reflecting its focus on expanding financial services and opportunities to underserved communities.
