Credit union unity helps members build better lives

The credit union movement began as individuals working together, and the system today relies on cooperation at every level. In a CUInsight op-ed published Wednesday, America’s Credit Unions Chief Membership and Engagement Officer Anthony Demangone emphasizes the importance of continued collaboration.

“Our credit unions are the boots on the ground in communities, working miracles every day—even during a government shutdown, economic downturns, or everyday financial challenges,” he wrote. “State leagues are the next link in the coalition. They’ve spent years building relationships at the local level, connecting with key legislators, and maintaining those relationships as many of them ultimately rise to federal office.”

A recent successful example is the collaboration between leagues, Inclusiv, and America’s Credit Unions, which helped secure the support of 103 Republican members of Congress in reaffirming the value of the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund as it faces questions over the deployment of funds and reductions in force.

“Getting legislators together for a specific request doesn’t happen overnight. Years of relationship building allows us to call on credit union champions when they’re needed most,” he wrote. “These relationships require regular engagement, and when it’s time to act, a clear message about why and how credit unions are part of the equation.”

Read the op-ed