EAST LANSING, Mich. — MSUFCU is reporting that this year it added a new season pass for participants in its “Social at 311,” which it describes as a one-of-a-kind member-exclusive event series spotlighting local arts, culture, and small businesses” that is designed to help promote brand awareness.
During the spring season, which ran from February through April, the series included a comedy night, knitting workshop, and build-your-own succulent bar.
The union said the initiative as an extension of what it described as its ongoing commitment to foster deeper connections with members and the community.
Launched in March 2024, the series has completed three “successful” seasons featuring 16 local businesses and welcoming more than 400 attendees, including MSUFCU members and their guests.
Designed to offer unique, immersive experiences, MSUFCU said Social at 311 strengthens member relationships while organically growing brand awareness and community connection, the credit union said.
Promoting the Credit Union’s Reputation
“We’ve found that when members have an enjoyable experience, they are more likely to share positively with family, friends, and colleagues, helping to promote the credit union’s reputation and increase brand awareness within the community,” VP-Community Impact Arianna Ridderbusch said in a statement. “Moreover, when members invite nonmember guests to these events, MSUFCU gains the opportunity to introduce potential new members to the benefits of opening an account in a casual, enjoyable environment. This not only helps expand the credit union’s reach but also reinforces its role as an integral part of the community.”
Events at Downtown Location
Each event is held in the community room of MSUFCU’s downtown East Lansing location at 311 Abbot Road and includes a “curated activity, a thoughtfully designed menu with paired mocktails, and musical performances from Michigan State University College of Music students.”
“These events provide a unique opportunity for members to connect with others who share similar interests, creating a strong sense of belonging both within the credit union and the broader community,” Ridderbusch said. “As these connections grow, members feel a deeper sense of engagement with the Credit Union, becoming more aware of its strong presence in various aspects of community life.”
Additional Engagement
According to MSUFCU, to further engage members and showcase the benefits of MSUFCU membership, each event offers optional tours of the Coworkerie coworking space and resource tables featuring a variety of products and services.
Looking forward, MSUFCU said Social at 311 will continue to serve as a “dynamic platform for engagement, introducing new opportunities for connection, learning, and community-building. More events are slated for the fall season, offering fresh opportunities for members to experience local culture, connect with others, and deepen their relationship with the credit union.”