President's Message

Today we offer you another guest post from two League member CEOs who recently attended CUNA's Frontline Women's Event hosted by Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives and then met with Representative Jahana Hayes. Member participation in events such as national roundtables, League-sponsored political fundraisers, and even local town halls is vitally important to the collective advocacy work we do to advance your interests and grow the credit union movement. It is your personal member stories and direct experience working with the community that impact and influence the decisions made by our legislators. Thank you for your continued engagement. Together we rise!

As always,
Bruce  

Congresswoman Jahanna Hayes met with two Connecticut Credit Union CEOs Tuesday and discussed the difference credit unions make in their members' lives and in their communities. Kathy Chartier, President of Members Credit Union and Joanne Todd, President of Northeast Family Federal Credit Union took part in CUNA's Frontline Women's Event with Speaker Pelosi.  Following the national meeting, both had an opportunity to talk with Representative Hayes. 

Chartier and Todd shared how Connecticut Credit Unions kept financial literacy learning alive during the pandemic with virtual Reality Fairs. As a former teacher in Waterbury, Congresswoman Hayes had experienced firsthand her students benefiting from Reality Fairs and she appreciated credit unions filling this important role.

Chartier and Todd discussed their Credit Unions' work to serve underserved members of their communities. They gave examples of how they are helping members affected by the pandemic, in many cases delivering services that members cannot get anywhere else. Representative Hayes talked about the needs she sees in her community for financial services to help low wealth underserved and non-citizens, groups who both Credit Unions serve.

When the conversation turned to policies that Congress should consider to address these problems, Chartier and Todd asked her to consider the unintended consequences of any sweeping legislation that burdens credit unions and limits their abilities to serve their members and communities.

Both were grateful for the opportunity to attend the event and to meet with the Congresswoman in a face-to-face setting. Their conversation with Congresswoman Hayes reaffirmed their belief that her values are aligned with those of credit unions, and she will be a strong supporter of our movement.