Advocacy at its Finest
I'm in DC this week for our annual Hike the Hill, where we met with our federal delegation to discuss important issues facing Montana's credit unions. The good news is that we have strong champions and supporters in our delegation. While it does make our jobs a little easier, we must remain vigilant on the key issues and continue to tell our stories.
We are in DC at the same time as America's Credit Unions Congressional Caucus, so we were able to network with credit unions from across the country, see friends in the movement, and hear from great speakers and members of Congress. Senator Tester spoke from the main stage and gave shoutouts to our credit unions in Montana.
Here are three key takeaways from this week:
- Your voice matters!
- Speaking with one, unified voice is important!
- Together, we make a difference!
These are pretty straightforward points, AND ones we need to remember and reinforce constantly. Members of Congress know credit unions, are generally sympathetic to our issues, and told us they want to hear from you — our credit unions — directly and often. When we told our delegation that we have nearly 467,000 members across the state, they sat up straighter, impressed with your work. Then, when we told them your stories, they listened more intently, hearing the impact on your members' lives you're having daily.
This week was another great reminder for me of the importance of our advocacy strategy in Montana — to build advocacy champions at EVERY credit union and to challenge you to get involved in ways that make sense for you. More than a third of our credit unions have identified advocacy champions. Thank you! If you haven't yet or have additional questions, please reach out to Karen or me.
Credit unions are a force across the country and in Montana. You are important to the financial lives of so many people. You often see people in their time of greatest need, and you are there for them.
Stay the course, get involved, and keep fighting the good fight!
Cooperatively, Gerry
p.s. A huge shoutout to Steve Grooms for his leadership in meeting with our delegation this week. He is a master at advocacy, and I was in awe as he eloquently told our story. Well done, Steve!
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