As flames test the spirit of Rochester firefighters during crucial training exercises this November, First Alliance Credit Union is proud to play a key role in supporting their mission. What makes this partnership even more meaningful is the credit union’s deep connection to the Rochester Fire Department—a history that dates back to 1932, when seven local firefighters and a teacher banded together to create what is now Rochester’s original credit union.

A series of trainings is scheduled to take place at the credit union’s building off 37th Street NE. The training serves as an invaluable opportunity for the Rochester Fire Department to refine their skills, ensuring they are ready to protect and serve the community. For First Alliance Credit Union, it’s a way to give back to those who played a vital role in their founding.

“We are very appreciative of the opportunity to partner with a trusted community organization like First Alliance Credit Union.” shared Caleb Feine, Assistance Fire Chief at the Rochester Fire Department, “We are always seeking hands -on training for our firefighters, the exercises and drills we will be able to complete in the First Alliance Credit Union building will build their skills and ultimately help save lives.”

In the Great Depression, when financial support was hard to come by, seven Rochester firefighters had the vision to create a financial safety net for city employees. From its humble beginnings in a downtown firehouse, First Alliance Credit Union has grown into a trusted resource for countless families across Southeast Minnesota. Nearly a century later, the credit union is still guided by the same spirit of resilience and community the founding firefighters instilled in the credit union.

As the Rochester Fire Department conducts this training, preparations are underway for the credit union building’s next chapter. Demolition of the credit union’s NE Rochester branch is slated for early December, and the credit union is taking steps to ensure this transition is as thoughtful as possible, including exploring opportunities to salvage valuable materials and reuse some infrastructure.

“We are honored to host this essential training for the Rochester Fire Department,” said Brent Rempe President/CEO, First Alliance Credit Union. “It feels especially meaningful to give back to the very organization that played such a pivotal role in our founding. Supporting Rochester Fire Department isn’t just about the present—it’s about honoring the legacy of those who built this credit union from the ground up.”

This moment represents more than a practical step forward—it’s a chance to reflect on the credit union’s journey. From a firehouse serving city employees to a credit union serving over 20,000 members across 14 counties, the credit union’s mission has always been to provide possibilities for every member, just as those firefighters envisioned.

Supporting the Rochester Fire Department today is a full-circle moment for First Alliance Credit Union. It’s a tribute to the firefighters who built the credit union, a nod to the resilience that defines the credit union’s story, and a testament to the partnerships that drive the future.