Original Publication – Go West Credit Union Association “On The Go”
Successful credit union advocacy depends on several important factors, including participation by credit union enthusiasts, building and maintaining relationships with elected officials, and asking for support of priorities that help serve those officials’ constituents. Colorado Credit Union Day at the Capitol checked off all those boxes on Thursday, Feb. 20.
Nearly 170 advocates joined the GoWest team in meetings with almost all members of the Colorado Legislature or with their key staffers. Guided by Katie March, GoWest’s VP of Legislative Affairs for Colorado, advocates shared newly released economic data reports from Oxford Economics detailing Colorado credit unions’ economic and community impacts; a $2.2 billion contribution to the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the services 2.8 million Coloradans receive from 79 credit unions across a 371-branch network in rural and metro communities, the nearly 18,000 jobs they support, and the financial dreams their loans help to make realities.
The advocates also asked lawmakers to support SB 80, legislation that would allow a bank, that is up for sale, to sell its assets to a credit union if the bank selects the credit union as the purchaser. Advocates spent time with legislators debunking misinformation floated by opponents of the bill.
State Representative Jennifer Bacon called out, “I love credit unions,” as a delegation led by Minnequa Works Credit Union President and CEO Nathan Cape arrived.
“It was a productive and heartfelt day,” said Cape. “We were able to share common values with elected officials from across the state. It was neat to see so many first-time participants and their excitement.”
Meagan Barrett, President and CEO of Northern Colorado Credit Union, said all of the training and preparation made participation feel “effortless and easy for us as a small credit union to join. We are thrilled we could participate and we’re looking forward to nurturing these new relationships.”
About Minnequa Works Credit Union:
Minnequa Works Credit Union has been serving Southern Colorado for over 87 years, providing members with trusted financial services and a commitment to community betterment. Through initiatives like the Helping Hands Foundation and ongoing support for local organizations, Minnequa Works continues to stand as a credit union that cares.
For more information or to become a member, visit our website at mymwcu.com or stop by any of our branch locations conveniently located throughout the Pueblo-area.
