Drilling down storytelling that will resonate on the Hill

Credit unions are tackling affordability concerns for consumers every single day. As policy discussions in Washington D.C. center on this issue, it’s important to connect the dots so lawmakers fully understand credit unions impact on consumer affordability.

A Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) panel tackled this topic with a four person panel. First Service Credit Union President/CEO David Bleazard joined America’s Credit Unions Chief Membership and Engagement Office Anthony Demangone, Vice President of Strategic Communications Cassie Blake, and Head of Political Affairs Trey Hawkins. The group discussed the importance of drilling down the credit union difference to show how policy impacts real people.

“Politicians represent people and that’s ultimately who they want to hear about,” said Blake.

Bleazard shared examples of programs already at work in his own credit union that result in real economic empowerment for members. “We don’t need to be legislated to help our members—that’s the mission,” he added.

The group also discussed how to train staff to recognize “moments of magic” in capturing stories that should be elevated and highlighted. “Credit unions can’t miss the opportunity to take the everyday moments that are lifechanging for members and use them as differentiators between our competitors,” said Demangone.

Hawkins shared data illustrating how credit unions significantly outperform large national banks across key financial metrics due to the not-for-profit, cooperative financial model. He noted credit unions do better than large national banks across every meaningful measure of trust, value, and community impact. With affordability a priority issue, illustrating these facts with lawmakers is key as attendees prepare to head to Capitol Hill later this week.

GAC continues through Wednesday. Stay tuned to our Daily News and follow along on social media for highlights of the industry’s largest advocacy event.