Neighbor News
AFCU Foundation Pledges $30K to Key Program for Edison Children
C8 Science's key developmental program to be implemented in Edison School District.

The Affinity Federal Credit Union (AFCU) Foundation announced today its pledge of $30,000 to C8 Sciences, an organization that provides a cognitive assessment tool and training program developed by Yale neuroscientists.
With Affinity’s support, C8 Sciences will provide an evidence-based program of computer-presented and physical exercises that improve cognitive skills necessary for learning. The program, ACTIVATETM, works by increasing focused attention, self-control and memory.
Affinity’s first donation will help fund the implementation of ACTIVATE in four Edison School District schools, covering the cost of the program per student, on-site professional development for staff and training for teachers.
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“ACTIVATE is an important program for these students and we’re honored to support its implementation within the Edison School District,” said Jacqui Kearns, Chief Brand Officer at Affinity Federal Credit Union. “We’re so grateful that we’re able to support our communities in ways that impact all generations.”
Research conducted at Yale University in thousands of children shows that children who participate in the ACTIVATE program show dramatic improvement on school administered tests for math and reading. ACTIVATE also has built-in assessments of each child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses, providing teachers with additional information for individualized instruction.
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“Millions of dollars are spent nation-wide on math and reading materials, but if a child lacks cognitive skills necessary for learning the information cannot be retained. It is like trying to pour water in a jar with the lid closed. ACTIVATE training opens the lid by improving attention, self-control and memory,” said Professor Bruce E. Wexler, Yale University.
For additional information, please contact Lisa Aldape at laldape@affinityfcu.com.
About the Affinity Federal Credit Union Foundation:
The Affinity Federal Credit Union Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Affinity Federal Credit Union and its members. Together, we leverage our contributions to make impactful investments in local, grassroots charitable organizations, with a special focus on improving the financial lives of our members, friends and neighbors in the communities where we live, work, worship and attend school. Along with our volunteer efforts, together we are working to "Create Something Better." For more information, please follow us on Facebook (AffinityGives) and Twitter (@AffinityFCUfdn).
About Affinity Federal Credit Union
When you become a member of Affinity Federal Credit Union, you belong to something better – a community. With over 20 branches, Affinity is the largest credit union headquartered in the state of New Jersey, proudly serving the tri-state area. Affinity has more than 140,000 active members and assets approximating $2.8 billion. With thousands of businesses, associations, clubs and individuals that comprise the Affinity family, we are truly a community connected. Affinity members have access to a network of more than 5,000-shared branches and nearly 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide. As a member-owned, not-for-profit, full-service financial institution federally insured by NCUA, Affinity offers products and services designed to fit member needs, all while offering better and lower fees than most banks. From investments1 to consumer and business banking services that include a full suite of deposit products, mobile and online banking, to auto, real estate, education and personal loans. Affinity has the right tools for your financial success. For more information, please visit affinityfcu.com and follow us on Facebook (AffinityFCU), Instagram (AffinityFCU) and Twitter (@AffinityFCU).
C8 Sciences provides the marketplace with ACTIVATE, a research-backed, game-based brain training program used to help students of all abilities improve critical thinking skills and enhance learning capabilities. Developed by Yale neuroscientists, ACTIVATE combines computer and physical exercises to strengthen the brain systems important for skills such as memory, attention and self-control. To learn more about C8 Sciences and the ACTIVATE program, visit http://www.c8sciences.com.