“Lori Thurgood is amazing.” That’s one of the first things Brian shares when asked about his experience with the Credit Union.

A Senior Member Relationship Advisor at the Salt Lake City Branch, Lori has been Brian’s go-to from the very beginning. Brian joined the Credit Union in 2021 when he began working at the Chevron refinery in Salt Lake City, and from day one, he says the experience has been different.

“I haven’t been with the Credit Union all that long,” Brian says, “but this relationship feels like I have. Other places treat you like a number, and that just doesn’t happen here.”

Brian works closely with Lori on everything from everyday questions to more complex financial needs. “It honestly feels like I have my own personal banker,” he says. “She’s incredibly thorough and genuinely wants to help in any way she can.” That same sense of care extends throughout the branch. When Brian calls, a real person answers. There’s a personal connection, something he says is increasingly rare when it comes to finances.

That relationship became even more important last year when Brian faced an unexpected and deeply personal challenge.

CiCi, Brian’s beloved Cane Corso, was diagnosed with a rare, life-threatening condition. After multiple veterinary visits and consultations with specialists, Brian learned that without surgery, most dogs with this condition don’t survive past the age of two. The cost of treatment was significant and time was critical.

Brian eventually found a more affordable surgical option at a teaching hospital in Colorado. What he needed next was a fast, reliable way to cover the cost. For that, he turned to the Credit Union, and within days, Brian was able to secure a Personal Loan, allowing him to move forward with CiCi’s surgery without delay.